After days of state testing at Tanglewood Elementary School, the much-anticipated fine arts day called “Artapalooza” included activities such as yoga, cupcake decorating, storytelling, canvas painting and a “battle of the bands” contest.
Tanglewood students rotated from various classrooms participating in five art classes for the full day of hands-on art experiences. Each grade had different art classes depending on age-appropriate activities.
Some of the crafts that kindergarten to second grade students created were sunflower hands, paper plate frogs and origami.
“The purpose of this day is to expose our students to the wonderful world of art,” said Rhonica Stuart, co-chair of Artapalooza.
Tanga, the school’s mascot, welcomed students as they entered the school. Many schools in the area participated in the morning pep rally, such as the Paschal High School drumline and the W.P. McLean Middle School choir and cheer squad.
The Amon Carter Museum of American Art, Fort Worth Museum School and Casa Mañana, along with various businesses, joined the creative team to help create a fun day for students.
“The students always look forward to Artapalooza, and they especially love watching the teachers play in a band,” said Connie Smith, principal of Tanglewood.
The grand moment of the day was a “battle of the bands” contest where two teams consisting of six Tanglewood teachers and staff competed. This year, one group performed “Shake it Off” by Taylor Swift while the other played “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” by the Temptations.
About 150 artists, performers and community volunteers joined the students to make the sixth annual Artapalooza a success.