Everyone appreciates receiving mail—especially when it’s a handmade card. Maybe that’s why I enjoy creating them and sending them for birthdays, holidays, and honestly, just about any occasion. I’ve been making cards for years, and recently a friend said to me, “Card making is your superpower. Why don’t you offer a workshop?”
So—I am!
I’ll be teaching a card-making workshop at the Gibbs Library in Washington. The library offers workshops for free, and you don’t have to be a resident to join. If you’re interested, there’s still space available and a couple of days left to register. Details below. Please email me if you have any questions at meartsed@gmail.com.
As I mentioned in my last blog post, I am making changes to this site. Please make a note: one of the changes will be a new URL. I will be moving from meartsed.wordpress.com to argynestor.com. (Not yet, but soon.) My email will continue to be meartsed@gmail.com.
I love attending the high school musicals in the fall. It never fails, I walk away every time thinking, WOW, I am so impressed that high schoolers rise to the level of a great performance. Many of the actors are not new to the stage yet others are just beginning. As you know – the voices, costumes, set, acting, make up, lights, sound, and music are all critical components of the final performance. I am aware that bringing together all of the pieces can be very challenging. When the curtain goes up most people in the audience are not aware of what it takes to create the fall musical. Schedules, illness, grades, transportation, a willingness and commitment from everyone involved (students and adults), and other factors contribute. I was fortunate to have first hand knowledge helping some with middle school plays and again when my own sons were in high school, one on stage and the other on tech I supported in many ways. They both were part of community theatre as well. The commitment that students and staff and parents contribute is enormous. At some level it is collaboration at its VERY best. Perhaps our community (and beyond) leaders should take a close look at theatre programs.
I know that some (perhaps many) will not agree with me when I say IF we could only have one discipline of visual and performing arts education in schools, I’d pick Theatre, every time. Think about it – visual arts students work on the design of the stage, set, program, and costumes. Music students play in the pit band and on stage singing. Dance students are moving. Media Arts students are creating the sound and lights. Theatre students are center stage. I especially love it when the hesitant students are needed to take on a part and right in front of our eyes they grow into the role.
Why do I feel strongly about every student being involved in the theatre program? Besides involving all the arts disciplines it allows learners to literally and figuratively move to the edge (of themselves and the stage). It encourages them to take a chance and challenge themselves. Throughout the “play” process they engage in problem solving and improvising. Let us not forget the literature they are learning, not by reading script and keeping it inside, but speaking and putting into action the words and lines and story. They synthesize, analyze, ideating as the play formulates over a period of months. The story builds within each participate as they learn their positions and parts. Without the others on stage with them it doesn’t come to fruition. They depend on each other to help provide what the audience sees, hears, experiences and in the end hopefully, appreciates. The climax is the applause and perhaps a standing ovation that helps them realize, all the time and commitment they’ve made IS appreciated and worth it! I can tell when I look into their faces during the curtain call, the pride is evident. Sitting in the audience is me smiling from ear to ear. Even though I may not know the actors, musicians, dancers, and artists who made it happen, I can feel their pride.
Whether you have children of your own in high school or not I encourage you to find out when and where the plays in your area are scheduled. Don’t let another fall musical season pass without attending at least one. Below are some listed (some have passed) that I am aware of at this time. If you’d like one added to the list please email me (Argy Nestor) at meartsed@gmail.com.
Medomak Valley High School, Waldoboro, Guys and Dolls, last performance today, November 10, 2:00. Learn more!
Camden Hills Regional High School, Strom Auditorium, Into the Woods, November 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24. Learn more!
Freeport High School, Mamma Mia, November 8 and 9.
Thornton Academy, Saco, Little Women, November 22-24. Learn more!
Falmouth High School, Mean Girls High School Edition!, October 25, 26, 27, November 1, 2, 3.
Oceanside High School, Rockland, Legally Blond The Musical, November 8, 9, 15, 16, 17. Learn more!
Mount Desert Island High School, Chicago, November 15, 16, 22, 23. Learn more!
Fryeburg Academy, Amelie the Musical, November 14, 15, 16. Learn more!
Lake Region High School, Little Shop of Horrors, January 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26. Learn more!
Mt. Ararat High School, Topsham, Our Town, December 6-8, and Spring musical Mamma Mia, March 7-9. Learn more!
Last week I had the opportunity to join retired art teachers in Portland. We visited galleries, had lunch together and most importantly we spent time catching up and had conversations on many topics. It was a treat to learn about the art they’re making, what art organizations they are affiliated with, and how they spend time appreciating life after teaching.
I realize readers of this blog are at different places in their career. Some of you are retired, some veteran teachers, others at the beginning and some in the middle of your careers. I have learned from substitute teaching that teaching today is different. The challenges are different; from curriculum to learners to community, both local and beyond. I also know that the arts classrooms are still safe places for many and in some cases the only room and sometimes the only teacher in school who are open and supportive to all learners. Striving to maintain this can be a challenge in itself. However, what you do is critical and I appreciate your work.
What the arts teach us is impactful throughout a person’s life. I’ve been working on a community project that has dragged on. I know its my skills as a teacher and an artist that have helped me continue working on the project and seeing it to fruition. Working collaboratively is not easy and what I’ve learned over the years collaborative work doesn’t come easy to most. Again, it is critical, especially in this era of political battles. I am reminded over and over that quality arts education programs and access to it for all learners is absolutely necessary.
If you’re in the classroom think about what a retired arts educator could do to support your important work. And, if you’re retired reach out to an arts teacher and offer your assistance. Together you can be strong advocates for arts education. After all, we know that ‘none of us is as smart as all of us’. Let’s continue to work together for the excellent arts programs to be at the heart of schools.
If you’re a retired art teacher and are not on the email list to learn about gatherings please email me at meartsed@gmail.com.
Bates Mill, Lewiston, Maine, November 15-December 15
On the eve of the most important election of my life I think its most appropriate to be sharing the following information with you. The entire collection of over 270 Americans Who Tell the Truth portraits will be on display at the Bates Mill in Lewiston, Maine, November 15 to December 15. This special exhibition of American figures—ranging from historical icons to contemporary activists— stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of integrity, courage, and truth in democracy. Using the power of art, artist Robert Shettlerly illuminates the ongoing challenge to realize America’s democratic ideals and model the commitment to act for the common good. This exhibit invites visitors to engage with the portraits and stories of individuals who have made significant sacrifices to speak truth to power.
Each portrait is accompanied by a quote that captures the essence of the subjects’ personal stories and their commitment to truth. This collection includes renowned leaders such as Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, as well as modern-day activists.
The Bates Mill, an iconic structure in Lewiston, serves as an inspiring backdrop for this exhibit. Once a hub of textile manufacturing, the mill has been repurposed into a cultural space that fosters creativity and community engagement.
From guided tours to panel discussions featuring portrait subjects and local activists to education and art workshops for students and teachers, the exhibit is designed to be interactive and thought-provoking, encouraging people to engage deeply with the themes presented in the portraits.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Exhibit Opening The exhibit opening will be on Friday, November 15, 5 – 7 p.m. at the Bates Mill, 35 Canal St., Lewiston, ME. Attendees will have the opportunity to spend time viewing the portraits before a brief program starts at 5:45. The program will include an introduction to AWTT by Robert Shetterly, brief comments from several portrait subjects, and a description of other programs offered during the month.
Teacher Workshop AWTT will offer a workshop for educators on Wednesday, Nov. 20, 3 – 5:30 p.m. The workshop will feature time to view all 270 AWTT portraits, an opportunity to interact with AWTT education programs and lessons, and a panel discussion facilitated by Benjamin Perry. Registration at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1038863898887? Space is limited so register today!
Additional Opportunities
There will be opportunities for educators, students, and community groups to have a scheduled docent-led tour of the exhibit as well as additional self-guided activities and resources to facilitate interactions with this exhibit. If you would like to schedule a docent-facilitated visit to the exhibit, please contact Connie Carter atconnie@americanswhotellthetruth.org.
Donate to support this Show
If you are interested in supporting the exhibit in Lewiston, we are seeking donations to support the installation of the full 270 + portraits as well as programing for schools, teachers, and community events. Please visit our website americanswhotellthetruth.org/donate/ to donate online towards this show. Or, Venmo AWTT your fully tax deductible donation @americanswhotellthetruth.org. Please note that your donation is for the Lewiston AWTT show.
Americans Who Tell the Truth continually demonstrates, from our most recent and past history, the challenges that we face to realize America’s democratic ideals. No matter the outcomes of tomorrow’s presidential election we must work towards coming together as one America and act for the common good!
Recently students, educators, community members and decision makers participated in Arts Education Advocacy Day at the State House in Augusta, Maine. The Belfast Area High School students who spoke that day were very articulate about the value and importance of the arts and arts education on a personal level and beyond themselves. Heidi O’Donnell is their teacher who worked with her honor society students to create clay pins.
Heidi O’Donnell with pins that the Belfast Area High School Honor Society students created
Below are two of the speakers talks.
The first one was written by Jillian Webster who unfortunately was unable to attend due to illness. It was read by Gracie Moore and Katience Parenteau.
Hello fellow students, teachers, and anyone else who believes in the importance of creativity and learning,
I believe everyone here knows the importance of a strong academic foundation. However, today I want to talk about something I find just as crucial: the importance of arts education. It’s easy to see art as just an elective, a fun break from the core subjects. But I believe it’s much more than that.
Art allows us to express ourselves in ways words sometimes can’t. It has the power to connect us, make us feel, and challenge our perspectives. It allows us to see the world through different eyes.
Beyond personal growth, arts education teaches us valuable skills. Such as being creative, thinking outside the box, and viewing problems from different angles. It expands our communication and collaboration skills, as we work together to create something meaningful. These are skills that are crucial for success, not just in the arts, but in any field you choose to pursue.
Through art, we learn to see the world differently, express ourselves authentically, and to connect with others on a deeper level. We develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Moreover, arts education improves our lives. It fosters empathy and understanding of different cultures and perspectives. It provides a healthy expression of emotions and a space for personal growth.
So, the next time someone tells you art class is unimportant, remember: it’s not just about the final product, it’s about the process, skills, and experiences that shape who we become. Let’s fight to keep arts education alive, not just for our own personal growth, but for a more creative, expressive, and understanding world. Thank you.
Gracie Moore and Katience Parenteau reading for Jillian Webster
Below was presented by Liliana Cortez.
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests,
My name is Liliana Cortez and I’m a member of the Belfast Area High School National Art Honor Society.
Today, I stand before you to celebrate the power of art given to the youth of Maine.
In a world that often rushes by, consumed by technology and daily routines, it’s easy to forget the profound impact of art. But we must take a moment to acknowledge its importance in shaping our lives and communities.
Art isn’t just about entertainment or decoration; it’s a way to speak to the soul. It’s a language that goes beyond words, connecting us deeper.
And with this, It brings me immense joy to witness the encouragement given to our young artists to immerse themselves in the world of art and to express themselves fully, particularly during this special month.
Art has a unique power to transcend boundaries, to evoke emotions, and to spark conversations. It serves as a vessel through which our youth can explore their innermost thoughts, dreams, and aspirations. And here in Maine, we are fortunate to see our young minds embracing this opportunity with enthusiasm and passion.
This month, as we highlight the importance of art in our communities, we also recognize the invaluable role it plays in shaping the identity of our youth. Through various forms of artistic expression – whether it be painting, drawing, photography, music, or dance – our young artists can find their voice, tell their stories, and connect with others in meaningful ways.
But beyond the canvas or the stage, engaging in art fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment. It cultivates confidence, resilience, and empathy, nurturing individuals who are not only skilled in their craft but also compassionate towards others and the world around them.
In this special month, I’m among many other young individuals who feel empowered by art. When we create and we express ourselves, our voices reach far beyond just words, art is a global language, a language anyone can speak.
In Maine, the land of rugged coastlines and breathtaking landscapes, let us continue to cultivate a culture where the arts thrive and the youth is free to be creative.
Thank you for letting us be creative. Thank you for letting us be seen.
Maine Arts Assessment Institute, summer 2011, phase 2, Maine College of Art + Design
Over the past few months I’ve been working on a talk that I am giving called The ARTS at the Center at the New England League of Middle Schools conference in Springfield, MA. I have 60 minutes to speak about arts education to a room full of about 400 middle school educators. Perhaps half will be arts educators. To prepare I’ve looked at current and past research, I’ve scanned files, I’ve read papers and documents, I’ve found photos, and I’ve spoken to several educators. Every time something seems important to be sure and include I’ve made a note. The content kept growing and when i started to practice I realized that I had about two and a half times more content then I need. I’ve been cutting during the last week. It is filled with stories and I disliked cutting stories but I had no choice. We all have stories, especially educators.
Maine Arts Assessment Initiative, summer 2012, phase 2, Maine College of Art + Design
As I pulled out of the driveway to leave for the conference today my husband assured me that it would go well. As I headed down the road I thought about how important it is, especially as teachers, to challenge ourselves, step out of our comfort zones and really stretch. For one thing it reminds us of how our students feel. For some students, teachers ask them to do hard stuff every day. Stretching ourselves is important and helping our students stretch is equally important. Most adults can put supports in place as we’re stretching. For kids that’s not always the case. It’s important that we are mindful of supporting our students as they grow and learn.
Rob Westerberg and Catherine Ring, Maine Arts Assessment Initiative, winter retreat, Zillman Art Museum
Lately I’ve thought about many of the professional development and learning opportunities I’ve been part of planning and attending. The photos that I’ve looked through have brought back many memorable moments. I especially love the photos I’ve included in this blog post and the sweet memories that accompany them.
Mpamila Village, Malawi, 2016, 10 day Arts Integration workshop
Karen Montanaro, Nick Kleiner perform The Soccer mime, Farnsworth Art Museum, statewide arts education conference, 2008
March is a wonderful time of year to educate more broadly. Every day visual and performing arts teachers do what they were trained to do – teach! Whether you teach or support arts education in another way, March is an opportunity to advocate for the importance of quality arts education for all. Aren’t we fortunate to have a month designated to advocate for our profession?!
Full Chorus from Catching Fireflies, a book of images by Argy Nestor combined with the poems of Jean Feldeisen. The book, prints, and cards are available at https://sites.google.com/view/anestor/. Permission to use this print is required mearsted@gmail.com.
It is officially Music in Our Schools Month and Youth Art Month, both are designated by the professional arts education organizations in Maine and at the national level. Arts Education Advocacy Day is being held in Augusta at the State House in the Hall of Flags, March 20, 1:00-4:00. All are welcome to attend and join teachers, students, parents, and legislators in advocating for the value of quality arts education for all learners. If you’d like more information about the event please contact Vicky Cherry from Maine Alliance for Arts Education.
If you’re looking for resources to guide you in your advocacy work, how you can plan a local celebration or perhaps collecting information to help you communicate the value of arts education, there are plenty available. Below are a few.
NAEA
The National Art Education Association has been celebrating Youth Art Month since the 1960’s. Check out what NAEA has to offer on the topic. The purpose of YAM is to emphasize the value to children from participating in visual art education.
CFAE
The Council for Art Education provides tons of resources to help you plan. They have ideas on their site that teachers and students are engaged in across the country. The ideas range from school based to community, both large and small. You can sign up for their free newsletter and receive information on a regular basis.
NAfME
The National Association for Music Education has been recognizing Music in Our Schools Month since 1985. The idea started in 1973. You can learn what NAfME has to offer on MIOSM by CLICKING HERE. The purpose of MIOSM is to raise awareness of the importance of music education for all children – and to remind citizens that schools is where all children should have access to music.
Americans for the Arts envisions a country where everyone has access to—and takes part in—high quality and lifelong learning experiences in the arts, both in school and in the community. Their arts education council represents a cross section of the country so all voices are represented. The Americans for the Arts website has a plethora of resources on arts education. Check them out by CLICKING HERE.
ARTS ADVOCACY DAY
Founded in 1973 Maine Alliance for Arts Education has a strong mission: To promote and encourage education in all of the arts for all Maine students.
For decades Martin Fletcher was a foreign correspondent reporter who told stories. I learned that while he was in Maine not long ago he appeared in an interview (2-parts) on the TV show 207. His reporting took him to places in the world that were devastated by war, hunger and many other challenges. He saw people in the most horrible of situations.
I was attracted to this story because of the title of his book however, it’s not what I initially thought that it was going to be. The book called Teachers – The Ones I Can’t Forget. Martin, now retired from NBC, includes stories that are about some of the people he met along his journey.
His stories and interviews are captivating and provide, to his audiences in their busy lives, to reflect on what is important in the moment. His wife stated that the people he met along his journey “left scratches on his soul“. Ten of his correspondent friends died in the line of duty and several others injured. He believes he was lucky to be out of harms way. And, felt that perhaps his luck was running out which was one of the reasons he retired. The Japanese people say: “you fall down 7 times and get up 8”.
One of the stories in the book is as follows:
As Fletcher walked through the feeding station, jotting notes to himself for the story he would write, a boy who was about six years old began to follow him. Although clearly suffering from starvation, with a distended belly and only patches of hair on his head, the boy kept “a respectful distance” and refused Fletcher’s offers of water, a granola bar, and a sandwich.
Eventually, Fletcher asked a guide what the boy wanted.
“He wants your pencil,” the interpreter said.
“My pencil? That’s all? But I’ve only got one,” Fletcher replied.
The guide spoke harshly to the boy, who ran away “throwing one last beaten glance over his shoulder as he disappeared among the starving and the sick,” Fletcher wrote.
“That experience has haunted me ever since. Why didn’t I give him my pencil? What, I couldn’t find another one? But in the moment, trying to record the drama around me, and with only one pencil, I didn’t see any farther than my notebook.”
The heart warming part of this story for me is that all the profits from his book go to Artolution. Looks like an amazing organization. aWhat they do…
“We provide collaborative art-making experiences to our participants in vulnerable communities, strengthening mental health, social inclusion and livelihoods. Artolution programming is led by inspiring local Teaching Artists.”
The U.S. Department of Education (the Department) is pleased to announce that it will begin accepting applications for the 2024-2025 School Ambassador Fellowship on December 1, 2023. Launched in 2007, the School Ambassador Fellowship is a unique professional engagement experience designed to improve the outcomes for students nationwide by leveraging the voices of outstanding school-based practitioners to inform the Department on a range national education policy issues.
Founded on the principles of partnership, collaboration and cooperation with school-based educators, the Fellowship seeks to:
Establish an active community of teachers, principals, counselors, psychologists, social workers and other school-based staff members who share expertise and collaborate with Department of Education leaders on national education issues.
Engage school-based educators in development of policies that impact learning environments nationwide.
Showcase the power of practitioners’ voices and expand the critical leadership role of educators at the national, state, and local levels.
Ideal candidates for the School Ambassador Fellowship can demonstrate that they have made significant contributions to student learning and culture throughout their professional careers. They promote excellence in education through their collaboration and leadership. Further, School Ambassador Fellows demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate with a variety of education stakeholders both internal and external to the Department.
How do local school districts benefit from having a School Ambassador Fellow represented at the Department of Education?
Through their interaction with leaders at the U.S. Department of Education, Fellows provide a direct line of contact and engagement between the Department and their local school districts and are positioned to elevate pressing educational challenges faced by the students they serve.
Fellows build, foster and facilitate relationships between their school districts and the Department’s nationwide network of educational organizations.
In collaboration with Department staff and resources, Fellows take on important projects intended to solve complex challenges that will directly impact the students, families and educators within their local communities.
The deadline to apply for the 2024 – 2025 School Ambassador Fellowship is Monday, February 5, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. EST. On December 12, 2023 from 4:00pm to 5:00pm EST, the School Ambassador Fellowship Program Office will conduct a virtual informational and question and answer webinar about the program. Prospective applicants and others seeking to learn more about the School Ambassador Fellowship and the 2024-2025 cohort application and selection process should follow the link below to register for the webinar: https://shorturl.at/doFJX.For additional information about the Fellowship, please visit the School Ambassador Fellowship program webpage as well as the 2024-2025 School Ambassador Fellowship Program Flyer and School Ambassador Fellowship Program Brochure for more information about the types of Fellowship opportunities, eligibility requirements, and to access the online application. We look forward to engaging great educators from your district and/or network at the Department as we partner together to improve educational outcomes for all of our nation’s children.
Prospective applicants can contact SAF@ED.gov with any questions about the School Ambassador Fellowship program or about the application process.
Argy Nestor
Arts Educator, Blogger, Artist, Connector meartsed@gmail.com
https://sites.google.com/view/anestor/
Argy’s Blog
The purpose of this blog is to share stories about people and places; and to celebrate the amazing work (and play) that students, educators, and organizations are doing in and for arts education. In addition, the blog has a plethora of resources and innovative ideas. This forum gives blog readers the opportunity to learn from each other. It is essential that we listen, learn, and collaborate in order to build on teaching practices for the benefit of every learner in Maine and beyond.
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