Students at Barton Junior High recently participated in an immersive learning experience as visiting artist Brandi Parker joined Danielle Gregory’s art classroom for observational drawing and artistic collaboration.
Students engaged in hands-on learning by creating gestural drawings of still lifes and live models, an activity designed to strengthen their observational skills. Individual sketches from the class will be combined into a collaborative mural to be displayed above the lockers at BJH. Gregory hopes the finished piece will capture the sense of togetherness fostered in the classroom, highlighting the rigor, high expectations, and shared creativity that define the learning experience.
“Very rarely does an artist get to experience feedback, good or bad, from viewers,” Parker said. “Usually, we drop off a piece and receive it later, so it is exciting to hear the kids talk about the work.” Both Parker and Gregory were pleased to hear students accurately describe the meaning behind the artwork, demonstrating their growing understanding of artistic expression and critique.
At the end of class, Gregory reminded her students that artistic growth is built through consistent practice, discipline, and perseverance. She emphasized that failure is not something to fear, but an essential part of the learning process, a mindset clearly reflected in the progress and effort seen in their work.
Pictured: BJH students engage in observational drawing in art class.
