It wasn’t easy as it looked, if it looked easy at all.
Yet, Port Arthur Rotarians participating in a spirited art project managed to fashion a tower from random objects such as card stock, washers, paper clips, etc.
The Rotarian with the tallest non-toppling tower won bragging rights, but, more than participated a project designed to make them think outside the box and learn to appreciate art while practicing thought and observation.
Local artist Micky Mitchell, of Port Acres, was guest speaker at the club’s weekly meeting, where she talked to members about the importance of art in education, and in life in general.
“Art is about critical thinking; it is all about problem solving,” she said.
All too often, art is one of the first classes cut from school curriculum when budget constraints force a district to cut down.
Mitchell, 30, is attending Lamar University, where is studying art and education.
She hopes to teach at Memorial High School, and currently provides private lessons.
“Art class should be about teaching everyone to be more curious and intelligent,” she said.
Mitchell was also involved in the restoration of the historical mural at the new Port Arthur Economic Development Corporation building on Procter Street in downtown Port Arthur.
While she plans to teach, Mitchell has other goals including establishing a children’s museum in downtown Port Arthur.
She has no plans of moving from her hometown, but, rather wants to give back.
“It is home for me. If you ever want to make an effort for people, why not start where you started?” she said.
E-mail: sherry.koonce@panews
Twitter: skooncePANews.