The Story Behind: “Nature” of Southborough
Enjoy our vibrant, visual display of the beauty of Southborough as seen through the eyes of the students of the Woodward School. Woodward’s third and fourth grade students designed and painted more than three hundred tiles that each captures the character of Southborough. Arranging the tiles into panels has resulted in a quilt-work view that further enhances their beauty.
The “Nature” of Southborough project was conceived by the Woodward School Council* with the goal of connecting our students and the wonderful Southborough community. This project was made possible by a grant written by third grade parent, Dr. Erin Wheatley, and was funded by the Southborough Cultural Arts Council, a local agency supported by the MA Cultural Council. The funds from this grant were used to purchase all of the materials. Dr. Wheatley, Woodward School Council member and Chairperson of the Southborough Cultural Arts Council, managed this project from its inception to installation. Woodward School art teachers, Mrs. Joyce Caras and Mrs. Marsha Gleason, led the students through the design and painting of their tiles. Together, they helped the students create the many different Southborough scenes on each of these panels. Mrs. Emily Van Nort, Director of Southborough Art’s Center, contributed to the project plan and oversaw the glazing and firing of the tiles at the Art Center. Senior Center volunteer, Mrs. Alida Krumin, clear glazed each of the tiles prior to firing. This process of clear glazing and firing the tiles ensures bright, colorful, everlasting images. All of the eleven tile panels were designed, built, and installed by third grade parent, Mr. Paul Murphy.
The “Nature” of Southborough was a collaborative project with more than four hundred participants. The true goal of connecting the Woodward School with the Southborough community was accomplished with astounding success. A special thank you to all of the contributors for their efforts in creating such a magnificent exhibit that will be treasured by the Southborough community for many years to come.
*2009-2010 Woodward School Council members: Principal Jim Randell, Alison Garand, Amy Benford, Lori Winer, Marnie Hoolahan, Jill Vroman, and Erin Wheatley.
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