05/20/08

Middle School Arts Night, May 29, celebrates visual, musical arts of students

Cape Elizabeth Middle School’s second annual Arts Night, set for 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, May 29, will be bigger and better than the first and “pleasing to all senses,” promises Principal Steve Connolly.

Visitors to the free event will see "amazing" student artwork hanging on walls, two- and three-dimensional work on tables and shelves, and other works in the school’s courtyard, where statues are set to be unveiled, Connolly said.

"We’re working hard to develop our 'A' list at CEMS,” said Connolly. “Academics and athletics always get enough attention, but we’ve been working to develop a third 'A' – the arts. Arts Night is an opportunity to showcase our emphasis on the arts," he said.

During the event, toe-tapping music from student musicians once again will flow through the school’s hallways, and finger foods and drinks will be available. Students and faculty members, wanting to sell their creations of jewelry, photographs and other artwork in the Bazaar area, also will be giving back to the community.

"The $5 that they pay to set up a table with their wares outside of the gym by the courtyard will be donated to a local arts cause," Connolly said.

Middle School students will have a chance to vote for their top three picks of student artwork to add to the school's permanent collection, and the Middle School Parents Association will sell assorted "Pure Art Cards", designed by students.

The event also features a raffle of items donated by a variety of local artists. And, the spring Book Fair will be open for business in the conference room across from the main office.