A little inspiration can go a long way. Dean Tedesco visits Port High in advance of Green Art Show.
 
Inspiration is exactly what Dean Tedesco of Community Artists Niagara hoped to leave art students at Port Colborne High School with when he visited them this week. Community Artists Niagara is preparing to host its Fourth Annual Green Art Show on April 20 and 21 at Arts Place Gallery. The show, featuring works delivering environmental messages and focussing on the use of recycled materials as a medium, will feature works from artists throughout the community, and students at the school are expected to participate.

“I’m always curious to see what kids come up with,” said Tedesco, whose path to life as an artist started 25 years ago when he studied art in the very room he made his presentation to students from.

“They (young people) look at things differently,” said Tedesco, who explained the impetus behind the visit to the school was to help the students generate some ideas and start to look at ways they can incorporate thrown away items into their pieces.

“I’m trying to get kids to take things out of perspective,” said Tedesco, who showed up with a plethora of examples including a mask made from old magazine clippings, a boat made from items found on the beach, cardboard buildings and a piece entitled Adam’s Rib constructed from styrofoam and painted with real blood.

“I’m here to sort of spur them on,” said Tedesco, who asked the students when trash turns into art. His answer — as soon as the artist says so and can explain their reasoning.

“Tell a story,” said Tedesco, adding, “it’s all about the journey.”

He noted the show is completely open, and students need not stick to the visual; their submission could be a performance piece or a written work.

“There is no limit to the chosen medium,” he said, adding, “don’t be afraid to take a risk.”

Arts teacher Dawn Mayne explained while all students are being encouraged to take part in the show, senior arts students will be submitting pieces as part of their course work that includes a unit on Earth Week, which, coincidentally lines up with the date of the show.

Grade 11 student Rachelle Labonte said she was impressed with the examples brought in. She admitted she is still unsure what she will submit, but noted something will come to her.

“It’s definitely a unique way to show a message,” she said