by Ezabelle Janssen, Staff Writer
PASS CHRISTIAN (GG) — Art colorfully constructs a mosaic road upon which one can express themself. The Pass Christian Public School District (PCPSD) yearns to cultivate the artistic side of their students, to merge education and creativity, celebrating every and all forms of expression.
On Tuesday, March 25th, the Pass Christian High School opened its doors to the community, holding the “Arts on the Horizon” showcase, highlighting “Our dream for our children performing arts center.” The event was a plea to the public to understand the importance of art and the difference a performing arts center would make.
Delisle elementary art teacher Rocky Gaudin expressed how excited their students were to display their colorful creations. Many would agree, “This is a very important event for the community,” Gaudin explained, “It lets the art shine, which is usually seen once, after it has traveled home and been dented on the bus.”
The event allowed the students to showcase their talent and boosted their confidence, fueling them to continue exploring their artistic whims. The entire school district participated, with artwork from every school and grade showcased, as well as singers, dancers, and musicians.
Art is an educative tool that exposes the performers and viewers to various cultures and practices. The Pass Christian High School band dug deep into our southern roots, performing a jazz number that left the crowd in awe. Some of the art teachers’ lessons were inspired by local artists like O’Keefe. Art is a constant part of life, from the beating of a heart to the wave of fingertips. Therefore, it also gives life.
One of my favorite displays was the works that utilized mardi gras beads as the medium, giving life to discarded items and reducing waste. One man’s trash is an artist’s treasure. Pass Christian’s middle school art teacher, Donnette Beasley, said, “My lesson plans consist of examples of what to do, but I urge my kids to explore their imaginations.”
For example, with the bead creations, some kept the mardi gras spirit, portraying king cakes and masks, while others ventured off, creating pandas. The high school art displays showcased intense skill and concentration through challenging perspectives and 3-D work. The students’ creativity was evident in their exploration of different styles and techniques, from realism to expressionism.
Viewers’ eyes never dimmed during the event, with bright colors, contrasting lines, adorable sculptures, and psychedelic masterpieces. Boom!
The Pass Christian Elementary School music program showcased tiny hands bumping to traditional African beats on drums, resulting in the crowd forming an orchestra of applause. Awe! The adorable kids of the Pass Christian Elementary School music program and the Delisle Elementary School music program sang and smiled, like rays, drops of golden sun. Encore!
One heard it all, lifting hands in worship and bopping their heads to classics, while the Pass Christian Middle School Choir and Pass Christian Concert Choir performed. Followed by the funky fresh moves of the Pass Christian dance team, from leaps and kicks to kip ups and pirouettes, showcasing their versatility and that dancing is not subject to one genre.
Finally, the Pass Christian symphonic band showed the crowd why they are crowned the Pride of the Pass. The best of both worlds, the Pass Christian High School Show choir highlighted the skill of dancing and singing.
The dynamic duo, the Bryan Brothers, perform together on the Schow Choir and passionately spoke about the arts and performing:
“Art or show choir is just as important as other activities” singing, dancing, let alone doing both at the same time, and playing instruments, are strenuous tasks that require muscle memory, stamina, memorization, and adaptability. “Art forms allow you to use your energy non-disruptively,” and “art is like any other sport.”
In fact, the show choir is on fire this year. “This year is our first time earning first place, and we placed in every competition this season.” Jaylin and Mason were so excited to perform for their community, especially with this being one of their last performances for the year.
“Creativity takes courage.” – Henri Matisse.
The students of Pass Christian are courageous creators who are passionate about the arts. They took the time and effort, laying their hearts out to the community.
Many of the students were seen performing in various groups, showcasing their immense dedication and commitment to the arts. Their passion and hard work make us proud and call for our continued support. These children deserve a performing arts center. Art is on the horizon in the Pass Christian Public School District.
Photos by Ezabelle Janssen/The Gazebo Gazette.
