In true St. James’ style, many turned out last Sunday following the 10:15 am service and bought the wonderful art of our neighborhood students from Norman-Sims Elementary. From Polar Bears to trendy “Little Art,” there was so much to choose from. It was especially fun to welcome younger patrons who were as excited as their parents were (maybe more) with their purchases.
The sale brought in over $1,000 for the Norman-Sims art department to spend on student projects that would not be possible without these funds. This is just one way that the St. James’ Episcopal Church community supports and walks with the Norman-Sims Elementary School community. Through Freedom School – Austin, Reading Buddies, and teacher appreciation work, we are building up the ties that bind us together.
No art opening is complete without beverages and snacks and music. Thanks are due to Ms. Petit and the hospitality team for handling all the food and to Larry Williams for background piano. Plans for next year include starting conversations between the young artists and those who appreciate their work. Stay tuned!
A Special Thank You from Art teacher, Michelle Arrieta:
Dear Saint James’ friends and family,
On behalf of all of us at Norman Sims, we would like to thank you for your donations and loving support of our student’s artwork. The donations that were made to the art sale will make a positive difference in our school and will help with art materials and supplies so our students can have access to Art education.
Art can provide a strong framework for positive habits of the mind including, creation, expression, observation and reflection. It helps us connect with people and understand the world around us.
We were touched by how committed the community was to assist in the whole process. From planning meetings, volunteers helping with labels and matting artwork, people who help with setting up the art show and being present the day of the event. A surprise piano player joined us as well. We had wonderful conversations and connections that were made through this process.
Thank you again for your commitment to our community. It’s because of organizations like yours, that our community can thrive and rise to new heights. We look forward to working with you again in the future!
A special thank you to Rev, Eileen O’Brien, Margo Marshall, Jim Harrigton, Larry William, Angela Bell, Kat Heidrick, Mrs, Petite, Emily Duahue, Carrissa Raney, Wendy Mills, Patrick Salinas, Matthew Kenny, and the amazing artist of Norman-Sims.
Follow us on Instagram @allstartigerart
Kindest regards,
Michelle Arrieta
Elementary Visual Arts Instructor
Norman-Sims Elementary
1203 Springdale Rd, Austin, TX 78721
