The Art of the Matter

One definition of the word art is “the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.” Art likewise is expressed in other forms, such as music, photography, theater, and literature.

We are so fortunate to live in and near the artistically diverse community of Mentone. Everywhere we look, we can appreciate the “expression of human creative skill and imagination.” From unique hand-drawn murals, sculptures that echo the region’s history, and the whimsical brightly colored picket fence near the MERF House, art abounds here. Artists and musicians are regularly highlighted at the Chuck Sennett Center for the Arts. The Little River Arts Council brings terrific bands in its “Music for the People” series and various talented artists to Mentone each year through Follow Your Art. The Mentone Fall Festival draws a multitude of artisans and live performances. Moon Lake Library hosts authors, photographers, and “Little Learners” for youngsters.

Each program is a time for sharing personal creativity with others. Art can be found in galleries and shops. And let us not forget Mother Nature’s contributions, with birdsongs, waterfalls, and sunsets on the brow. We are surrounded by extraordinary opportunities to bring art into our lives.

As you are aware, MERF’s mission is to enrich the learning and living of our community. One of the ways we do this is through art education for elementary school students. This program began at Moon Lake School and transferred to Valley Head when the school closed. Valley Head is the only school to offer art education to elementary students in the county school system. It is totally funded by MERF through grants, donations, and supporters in our local and regional communities. Today, over 250 students attend art class each week and experience the transformative experiences that art brings.

“The students are learning the joy and power of creativity,” said Caroline Moore, Valley Head’s art teacher. She loves bringing this discovery to them each week.

Why does art matter? Why is art education in schools important? A recent article posted on the University of Florida website answers these questions. Here is a brief summation of some of the highlights in this article.

“Research has shown that when children engage with the arts it fosters creativity and problem-solving abilities. Through activities like drawing, painting, and sculpting, children learn to observe the world more closely and express their thoughts and feelings creatively. This not only boosts their confidence but also contributes to their overall cognitive and emotional development. Art education connects students with their own culture as well as with the wider world. Imaginative activities for young learners can lead to better skills in social interactions and emotional regulation.” https://arts.ufl.edu/articles/importance-of-art-education/

On Saturday, March 15, “Valley Head Art Night,” formerly known as “Family Art Night,” will be held at Valley Head School from 3 to 5 p.m. in the gymnasium. Everyone is invited to this free and fun event. See the many wonderful forms of art created by the elementary students. Meet the student artists, their parents, and their friends. You will learn the stories from their imaginations. You’ll see the pride on their faces. You will bring them a sense of connection to the world outside their windows. This is the evening that student art will be selected for the upcoming Taste of the Mountain and Art Auction, to be held April 12 at Camp Alpine. We hope you will come and support the students and their talents. This major fundraising event allows MERF to bring art to Valley Head School. Tickets go on sale March 1 and are $50 per seat or $400 for a table for eight.

You may purchase tickets on the MERF website, merfhouse.com (credit card), or at the Mentone Market (cash or check). This evening gives you a chance to sample tasty foods from local restaurants and bid on fabulous works from local artists and students. It promises to be an entertaining evening, with Ben Shurett hosting as auctioneer once again. You won’t want to miss it. Come out and support art and have a terrific time!