12.17.2012

my hands are my heart

I went to see the Hobbit movie over the weekend. There was a scene that has stayed with me while trying to process the recent horrific event that has broken all of our hearts- Gandalf the wizard is explaining why he chose a hobbit to help in their journey:

"Saruman believes it is only great power that can hold evil in check, but that is not what I have found. I found it is the small everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keep the darkness at bay. Small acts of kindness and love. Why Bilbo Baggins? Perhaps because I am afraid, and he gives me courage."

Funny that wizards, elves, dwarves, and hobbits helped to restore my faith in humanity. I wish powerful laws could protect us and we had better mental health care for all. The thought of all that probably not happening in my lifetime leaves me feeling powerless though. What I can do, and what we can all do, is keep evil at bay with small daily acts of kindness, love, and courage.

I'd like to share our 4th grade creative art journaling on the theme: My Hands Are My Heart. They give me courage!

















10 comments:

Deaf Art Teacher said...

Thank you for sharing this project. All day I've been looking for ideas to share - art projects that relate to peace or compassion. "Art as Healing" was my post earlier today. I will save your project idea as well, thanks again!

www.deafartteacher.blogspot.com

Chesterbrook Academy Elementary said...

What a beautiful project illustrating great ideas.
Colorful and hopeful.

Your students did an amazing job.

Mary said...

What a beautiful post! These colorful art journals with the children's hands and feelings are especially touching right now. Really lovely Shannah!

Miss said...

Beautifully said and beautiful artwork.♥

Miriam Paternoster said...

amazing works!! Thanks for sharing

Rina k6art.com said...

These are gorgeous. I love the idea of portrait that expresses the heart but doesn't show the face.

willowday said...

I've just found your blog via Parents and find it just beautiful. I like the simplistic beauty and depth you're creating with your classroom. This is exactly the heart of where I try to be, as a mother, with my children. Just back from many unplugged, holiday days, with my family and I look forward to perusing your site when my family is back in school again! I love to have ideas on hand for the kids.

willowday said...

The kids must have been so proud and the parents so happy to receive these "keepers."

Laura Kim said...

Thank you for this inspirational post. My 4th graders used this assignment for our art show this year! I will be posting pictures shortly on my blog and link back credit to you! :)

Heather said...

Very moving and inspiring to see this work that you and your students have done. Thank you for sharing.