Young artists at Thomas County Central High School have contributed to an effort to help bring some healing, through color, into the lives of local abuse survivors.
These art students donated prints to the first annual Farm to Fork Dinner, which was held Friday, April 21 to aid local nonprofit The Treehouse Children’s Advocacy Center of Thomas County.
Local high schools were asked to get involved by donating student artwork to auction, according to Lindsay Thompson, a The Treehouse Board of Directors member and Thomas County Central High School Digital Learning Specialist.
“I am so impressed with our students’ generosity and creativity,” Thompson said. “Their donations will help The Treehouse take care of our community’s children who need assistance at a very fragile time. The art each student donated took a lot of time and effort, and I am so honored to offer it for auction.”
TCCHS donated 10 artworks, prints students created during their art class(es).
“I encouraged several of our classes to participate in this cause to have the experience of creating art for a purpose,” teacher Jocelyn Rivard said. “With printmaking, students learned that they could carve a linoleum plate that could make prints for themselves, friends, and a charity as well. I am proud of the excellent carved images and the colorful prints that the students created in the spirit of charity.”
The Treehouse is an advocacy center for victims of alleged child abuse and sexual assault. It helps survivors learn to cope and to heal, and it also aids law enforcement and other protection agencies in the obtainment of forensic information. Opened in 2011, it is now a full-time service to its community.
The student artwork was part of a silent auction held during the dinner event.
Senior Macie Wheeler, 17, chose a piece that has a cow “strategically placed in a farm setting” and went along with the dinner’s theme. She said events like this one are good ways “to remind people to shop local and support community events.”
Wheeler has a message to share with whomever should purchase her print.
“Every time you look at this picture I hope that you are reminded of the opportunities given to someone through your purchase,” she said.
Sophomore Emily Hiers, 15, said what she wants, “more than anything,” is “to help these people heal, and make them feel better and know that they are not alone.” She hopes the project makes victims of child abuse smile.
“I chose the eagle because I just love how bold and fearless these birds are,” she said. “I love the way they look and how they are strong and independent, just like these victims.”
Junior Starla Fortier, 17, said the cause “matters a great deal” and helps those who have been through such abuse “get the love and support they deserve.” She chose to print a macaw “because of their quite stunning beauty.”
“Seeing my piece, I am hoping people can see the beauty and journeys it (the macaw) takes,” she said. “Just like the elegant macaw, these children are beautiful and are on a journey to healing with all of our help!”