It’s been such fun being back in person again! This week Art in Action students were inspired by Beatrix Potter, the writer of one of the most beloved children’s books of all time, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, who first wrote the famous story of Flopsy, Mopsy, Cottontail, and naughty Peter to her friend’s son Noel who was home sick recovering from Scarlet Fever. She went to great lengths to publish the books the way she wanted them – some of the criteria being small enough for children’s hands to hold and illustrations on every page. She published the first book herself, and then found a publisher who met her strident criteria and would sell over 100 million copies and be published in 35 different languages!
Beatrix Potter was also a natural scientist and conservationist who later in life became an avid sheep farmer. Becoming deeply involved in the community, she served on committees to improve rural living and in 1923 she bought Troutbeck Park, an enormous but disease-ridden sheep farm which she restored to agricultural health. She became one of the most admired Herdwick breeders in the region and won prizes at all the local shows. Beatrix Potter Heelis died on 22 December 1943. She bequeathed fifteen farms and over 4,000 acres to the National Trust – a gift that protected and conserved the unique Lake District countryside. Her books, her art, her Herdwick sheep and her indomitable spirit are all part of her enormous legacy.
This week, students welcomed spring by admiring the paintings of Beatrix Potter and creating their own Bunny. Using a variety of art materials students created their own background using chalk pastels and learned how to create soft bunny fur texture using sweeping brush strokes.
Great Work Students! Happy Easter everyone!