This project was part of a program at the Child/Adolescent School Library at the Terrell State Hospital.  Our goal was to combine literacy and visual arts to convey a message of hope, pride and encouragement through the promotion of reading.  Lead Artist, VET, directed students in hands-on activities that include sketching, collage composition and techniques in painting. Students were also guided by Artist Assistant, Sal Barron, to discover new ways of thinking and approaching their artwork by focusing on details.Working at their own pace, students painted small (8x10) scenes from their selected storybook character. These and other figures were transferred and painted onto a larger canvas mural approximately 12x15' (144x180"). Designs emphasized bright colors, interesting shapes and larger than life characters.  The reading/art project increased self-esteem, promoted team building; enhanced artistic abilities and improved social skills. Through this mural, the dynamics of visual arts illustrated the power of literacy and our ability to explore the world by reading.

Contact 214-839-7689, P.O. Box 226772, Dallas, TX 75222.