Matthews Elementary School celebrated student art and its positive impact on students' creativity at its third annual art show on March 19. This year’s theme was “Wild About Art,” showcasing the talents of students from kindergarten through fifth grade. The exhibit featured more than 1,800 pieces of student artwork that highlighted months of dedication, imagination, and hard work. 

Throughout the show, families and visitors alike stopped in the halls to admire artwork, snap photos, and watch as students eagerly pointed out their art creations. The halls led to a central exhibit room featuring a photo booth, recycled jungle crayons, and a collaborative coloring station, which will be displayed at the school as a lasting memento of the celebration of art and community.

The art show was a collaborative effort by the entire school community and led by Kaitlyn Linscheid, Matthews Elementary’s art teacher, who is in her sixth year teaching with CMS.

“For many students, this was their first time seeing their artwork displayed and admired by family members and peers,” says Linscheid. The show was a chance for students to reflect on how their skills have developed over time.

Lyla Schmidt, a fifth grade student at Matthews Elementary, proudly held a clay turtle she created, saying “Art makes me happy.”  As she looks ahead to middle school, she hopes to continue to have more opportunities to express her creativity. Lyla wants her peers to know, “Art is not just something to look at—it is something to keep and treasure.”

Linscheid spoke about the event and her role as an art teacher with pride, saying, “I have my dream job. I love what I do, I love these kids dearly, and I am so incredibly proud of their hard work. Just seeing their faces light up when their artwork is displayed on the walls is incredible.”

She is indeed Wild About Art!