Several students from Maine Township High School District 207 took part in a special community art project this holiday season, painting life-size nutcrackers that were displayed alongside a ballet production at the Rosemont Theatre.
Art students at Maine West, Maine East and Maine South high schools hand-painted the holiday icons in the school buildings, then they were displayed at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center and at the theater where the “NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet” was performed.
In the past, the village of Rosemont commissioned professional artists to design the nutcrackers of “Nutcracker Wonderland,” officials explained in a news release. But this year, students from 17 different local high school art programs – including the Maine schools and Niles West High School – were asked to paint them.
“This project was a wonderful opportunity for students to tackle real life career experience inside the classroom,” said Cherie Rams, Maine South High School visual arts teacher.
Each school received their nutcrackers from one of the Rosemont businesses participating in the project. Maine South was partnered with the village of Rosemont. Maine West was paired with Our Lady of Hope, Donahue and Rose Law and Braden Realty. Maine East worked with Stan’s Donuts.
Once given their assignment, students had a video call with their assigned business(es) where they shared thoughts and ideas, according to the release. The art students then developed sketches, finalized an idea for each nutcracker and worked on their design. The process took six weeks.
“This public art project’s goal is to support the art community and raise awareness for local businesses, while helping a local charity,” according to the release.
Organizers explained that Rosemont raised $20,000 as part of the partnership and project, which was donated to Salute Inc., a local nonprofit organization that provides financial, physical and emotional support for injured military service members, veterans and their families.
“It is especially meaningful to see students from several area high schools contributing their artistic talents to this year’s Nutcracker Wonderland,” said Rosemont Mayor Brad Stephens.
Stephens said the project not only showcases the students’ creativity and the local businesses, but also helps Salute with the “invaluable services” it provides to veterans and their families.