Ward’s young artists, led by art teachers Jennifer DeGiacomo and Maria Belinquete, studied the work of New York-based Ghaninan artist Dennis Owusu-Ansah. Owusu-Ansah told CNN, “After witnessing my friend get teased by a group of men for wearing a kente cloth on our way to church, I figured something must be done to change the perspective of people who are not familiar with African culture.” It was at the point that he painted famous pop artists in royal African attire, such as Kente cloths. Ward’s fourth- and fifth-graders, performing paper weaving, also had the choice to draw traditional Kente designs or make up their own designs using oil pastels or black marker. In all, beautiful creations emerged as lessons about heritage and tradition took hold.
Explore
Our District
Board of Education
Organizational Charts
Departments
Business & Administration
Facilities
Technology
Safety & Security
Curriculum & Instruction
Performing & Visual Arts Department
Student Support Services
Family and Community Engagement
Expanded Learning
Charter School Information
Family & Community
Calendars
Parent Resources
Students