Art
class reaches out to Armenia
 |
A
visiting expert teaches Armenian students about the
artist Paradjanov. |
It’s
a nation sandwiched between Turkey, Iran and several former
Soviet states. To Americans it is best known as the site of a
tragic earthquake in 1988. To students in Kathy VanLoan’s
Drawing and Painting class, Armenia is home to new- found
friends half a world away.
Mrs.
VanLoan’s class is part of Project Harmony, an historic
international program drawing people together via technology.
Overseen by the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of
Educational and Cultural Affairs, it encourages Armenian
democracy and community development as the nation continues to
rebuild from the devastation 16 years ago.
Using the
Internet, students in Canajoharie communicate with students in
Armenia exchanging information about their lives and their
cultures. More than simply an international chat room, the
program is a valuable learning tool. The two groups are
currently working together as they study the art of Sergei
Paradjanov, a 20th century Armenian who was imprisoned by the
Soviet Union for his social views. The Armenian students
practice their English as they research the artist while our
students study his art and learn to work in his style.
After a
two-week visit to the Armenian school last summer, Mrs.
VanLoan is looking forward to a visit from the Armenian
teacher later this winter. |
