Fifth grader, Devin Li, has his eye on a high profile career in the arts.
“When I grow up,” the PS 69 student said, “my work is definitely going to be hanging in these cool galleries.” Devin was one of the hundreds of students from across the City who participated in the Second Annual Madison Avenue Gallery Walk.
The event raises funds and awareness for art programs in New York City public schools. Co-sponsored by The Fund for Public Schools and the Madison Avenue Business Improvement District, the Madison Avenue Gallery Walk brought together prestigious art galleries, 36 young artists, and world renowned artists. Public school art teachers led free tours of the galleries and families participated in an art scavenger hunt. Selected galleries also hosted artist talks, and there was a silent auction featuring donated art. Caroline Kennedy, the Fund for Public Schools’ vice-chair, kicked off the event at the Gagosian Gallery.
“The experience for my students was both eye-opening and inspiring” said Angela Fremont, a PS 69 teacher who served as a tour guide. “Many were exposed to abstract and non-traditional forms of art for the first time.”
“It’s amazing how the event brings together art educators and unites them with the general community”, said Elle LaRocca, a teacher from Tottenville High School on Staten Island and a tour guide. “You really feed off the energy and passion as we open up this new world to the public.”
“I was able to allow my imagination run wild,” said PS 69 fifth-grader Linda Zha.