On Dec. 11, students in Deborah W. Johnson’s second grade class at Ronceverte Elementary School participated in a unique learning experience via a Carnegie Creative Classrooms/Arts In Education presentation titled “The Art of Drawing Dragons.”
The Chinese believe that the dragon is sacred. It is considered to be a loving creature that brings blessings and happiness to the Earth. For more than seven centuries, dragons have played a role in lore and legend. Of all mythical creatures that rise from the water, prowl across land, or fly through the air, the dragon is the most famed.
Retired elementary art teacher Fred Huffman guided the students through facts about the Chinese New Year and how dragons figure prominently in its celebration. He also discussed Chinese culture and how significant dragons are to their people.
An integral process for this program was elements of observation, prediction, discussion and mathematical concepts of pattern and repetition.
“This class was full of creative thinkers and I was pleased to hear many students using terms such as vertical, horizontal and diagonal,” said Huffman.
“My students enjoyed following along and learning to draw a ‘real’ dragon. The only drawback for my students was finding out that dragons and unicorns are not real,” stated Johnson.
“The Art of Drawing Dragons” is only one of several Carnegie Creative Classroom presentations underwritten by Greenbrier County Schools and other supporters. For more information on the programs and how to register, contact Leah Marie Trent, Carnegie Hall education director by calling 304-645-7917.
