One of Dogwood Elementary School's fifth-grade classes recently had the unique opportunity to participate in the Blue Trees Project, a temporary art installation designed to raise awareness of deforestation. The project, created by Australian artist Konstantin Dimopoulos, involves painting trees blue with a specially designed, biologically safe watercolor that is harmless to plants and wildlife. The blue color will fade over a few months, leaving behind a temporary reminder of the importance of protecting our forests.
Mrs. Coleman's fifth-grade class was thrilled to be a part of this project with art teacher Charli Ardrey. They eagerly helped paint a tree in the front of the school and paint an environmental message on the sidewalk. The students learned about the impact of deforestation on the environment and the importance of taking action to preserve our forests. They also discussed the symbolism of the blue trees, which represent hope and resilience in the face of environmental challenges.
"I'm thrilled I had this opportunity to connect my students to the broad definition of visual art and allow them to be participants," Ardrey said. "Conceptual art can bring forth ideas to ignite action in a community. This experience will stick with these students into the future, and that is powerful."
The Blue Trees Project has been installed in over 30 countries around the world, and it has been credited with raising awareness of deforestation and inspiring people to take action to protect our forests. Dogwood Elementary School is proud to be a part of this global effort to protect our environment.
Dimopoulos hopes that his project inspires students to think of other creative ways to inspire awareness and change about causes they are passionate about.
The blue trees are associated with Shelby Canopy: Our Shared Connection, a project by the Germantown Public Art Program. The art is intended to help increase understanding about the value of trees and other natural resources. Shelby Canopy has two temporary artworks: The Blue Trees Exhibit and Tree Tones by local artists Belleau+Churchill. Blue Trees can be seen in various locations around town and Tree Tones is on the West end of the Germantown Greenway.