Polson's Art Docent Program seeks volunteers

The Polson School District Art Docent Program is looking for volunteers as the new school year gets underway.

“If you enjoy working with children and being creative this is a great opportunity,” according to coordinator and artist Edna Lemm.

The program requires no background in art, just an interest in, or love of, art. In addition, Lemm notes, “it’s a great way to make some new friends and get to explore art for yourself.”

The program was originally started at Cherry Valley Elementary School in 2002 with a crew of about 20 docents and monthly art lessons. A new version was implemented in 2017 with quarterly lessons at both Linderman and Cherry Valley Elementary Schools.

The program is a volunteer-based initiative. Docents, who serve as volunteer art teachers and classroom guides, participate in workshops prior to each class session where they learn to present information on the artist and teach a lesson. The program supplements the existing art curriculum at both schools.

Last year, the program expanded its reach with a team of 49 dedicated art docents, including 20 community volunteers and 29 parents of students. Each classroom is assigned two or three docents.

Together, they conducted a total of 125 lessons, exposing students to a diverse array of artists and mediums. During the school year, students explored the works of artists such as Berthe Morisot, Edgar Degas, Charlie Russell, Kevin Red Star, Diego Rivera, Leonardo da Vinci, Picasso and Hokusai.

Each art lesson is a hands-on experience, allowing students to experiment with different mediums and materials. From chalk pastels and liquid watercolors to acrylic paint and Posca paint markers, students have the opportunity to unleash their creativity and explore their artistic potential.

The Art Docent Program also serves as a platform for cultural exchange and appreciation. By featuring artists of many different backgrounds, students gain insight into diverse cultural perspectives and artistic traditions.

“With the support of dedicated volunteers and the Polson School District staff, we look forward to the program continuing to thrive, enriching the educational experience of every first-through-fifth grade student,” said Lemm.

An informational meeting for the Art Docent program is Thursday, Sept. 17. Those who are interested in participating are encouraged to contact Lemm in advance at [email protected].