May 2, 2012
Applied Painting is painting a piano! We acquired the piano through an organization called Keys 4/4 Kids, which was founded by MPA alum Newell Hill. One of Keys 4/4 Kids projects is called “Paint A Piano”. Pianos are painted and then sold, raising money for art and music programs in low income neighborhoods.
We started by learning about the Harlem Renaissance because the art and music movements at that time were so related, Exploring this relationship seemed appropriate given we are painting on an instrument! Specifically, we studied the work of Romare Bearden. Each student in the class is responsible for painting a section of the piano. Simultaneously, they are also creating their own compositions of a similar style.
The piano will debut at the Upper School Art Show reception May 23!
– Renee Sonka, Fine Arts Faculty
