Sonora Middle School Art Unveiling

Sonora Middle School revealed The Gathering Grounds outdoor classroom Thursday, the culmination of a unique and creative collaboration with Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.

The Gathering Grounds is a testament to the power of arts education and community partnership. By working directly with professionals from Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Sonora Middle School students were able to navigate the real-world process of public art design from conceptualization to final installation.

The result is an outdoor gathering space consisting of 15 steel-framed mosaic art pieces made from more than 46,000 brightly colored, square, three-quarter-inch, glass pieces.

“The completion of The Gathering Grounds is something we are incredibly proud of because it represents so much more than a physical space,” said Principal Chelsea Jennings. “It reflects student voice, creativity, collaboration and a true sense of belonging.”

The mosaics consist of art inspired and created by the school’s students, who designed mosaics inspired by themes such as heritage, Springdale history, agriculture, The Trail of Tears and the school itself. The mosaics are installed in five rows of three at the rear of the school, with the pieces of art staggered in step-like columns to create benches, tables and platforms where students can learn and visit.

“Our students helped envision and create a space that tells the story of our community and celebrates the culture, history and natural beauty of Springdale,” Jennings said. “As a school, we believe students are more connected to learning when they see themselves reflected in it, and this project brought that belief to life in a powerful way.”

Jennings said an outdoor classroom was created because it was something the school didn’t previously have in place. The project aims to provide a dedicated space for reflection, connection and community pride on the school campus.

“What makes this project especially meaningful is that students were not just participants, they were creators and decision-makers throughout the process,” Jennings said.

She said Sonora students discovered how art can bring people together, strengthen community and create a lasting impact through the partnership with Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.

The Crystal Bridges middle school program is aimed at helping Heartland communities celebrate their own uniqueness through creativity, critical thinking, collaboration and the integration of American art in the classroom, said Crystal Bridges Senior Director of Learning Michelle Flournoy. With a specific focus on visual arts, the initiative offers teachers and school administrators a comprehensive action plan, customized workshops and courses, student field trips to the museum and museum educators in the classroom.

The unveiling event featured a special celebration in the school library, featuring remarks from the student designers and representatives from Crystal Bridges regarding the project’s impact on the local community.

Following the indoor presentation, guests moved outdoors for a ribbon cutting ceremony and celebration at the site of the mosaics’ installation behind the school.

“The Gathering Grounds will serve as an outdoor classroom, gathering place and symbol of connection for years to come, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make it possible,” Jennings said.

WATCH: "Springdale Today I Art Speaks"

This episode of Springdale Today features the Crystal Bridges School Partnership Program, which is expected to reach more than 10,000 students, enhancing wellbeing and advocacy for the arts during a critical time for development. Featuring Crystal Bridges Senior Director of Learning Michelle Flournoy and Sonora Middle School Teachers Jodi Morrison, Maria Micozzi and Brittni Gunn.