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Students studying what gorillas eat in the forest. |
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OUR PROGRAM
Introduction
In 2007, Julie Ghrist launches Art of Conservation (AoC): Creating a Healthful Connection between People and Mountain Gorillas, in partnership with Dr. Lucy Spelman and the staff of the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project, Inc. (MGVP, Inc.).
Julie designed this outreach program to encourage
artistic expression as a form of communication. The target audience
for AoC is the community who live near the gorilla park in the northern
province of Rwanda, Africa. The art classes provide instruction in
basic drawing and introduce ideas about gorillas, nature, and the
interconnectedness of life.
Description
The AoC team includes a Rwandan artist, Eric MUTABAZI, a translator, Valerie AKUREDUSENGE, Julie, and invited guests. The art classes are held in a variety of locations with fifty students in each class. With Eric leading the instruction, Valerie translating, and Julie providing inspiration and direction, the students participate in twelve lessons beginning with basic elements of shape. As the lessons progress, the team introduces subject matter related to gorillas, health, the forest, other wildlife, and conservation. Each lesson also introduces more complex drawing techniques and painting. Specialists in conservation, public health, and art visit the class. Students are also encouraged to explore other forms of media, including song, dance, and creative writing. The artwork is shared with the community. The cost of the
first round of classes was covered by AoC, ($150.00 per student). |
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Classes meet in many locations
These examples show the impact of people on their environment.
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