Gilbert students create ‘eco’ art for community

GILBERT, S.C. — Second-graders from Gilbert Primary and third-graders from Gilbert Elementary worked collaboratively this year on multiple pieces of artwork for the Gilbert community.

Students teamed up to create “eco totem poles.” Each piece represents South Carolina flora or fauna, which students researched to learn about habitats, diets, and appearance as well as interesting facts.

Studying texture, form and emphasis, students drew sketches that were later transferred onto clay cylinders. Once the students glazed their pieces, GES staff installed the totems at GES, GPS and the Gilbert-Summit Library.

Doubling as learning tools, the art installations feature a fun, childlike sensibility. Art teachers and their students hope the community will enjoy them as much as the students enjoyed creating them.