Dr. De Sal Issues Page 76 Arts Challenge

The Page 76 Arts Challenge is an opportunity for participants to create something original in any medium of art based upon a single page of a fictional text. Inspired by the New York Times, Dr. De Sal opened this up to students in grades 8 through 12 but then discovered that several adults were also interested in participating. Here is how it worked: 76’ers chose a book –novel, short story, or even poetry—and turned to page 76. Then they were asked to illustrate that page in another artistic way creatively. No research or art training is needed—just imagination and the willingness to open up to new ideas. The possibilities are without limits—paintings, poems, songs, sock puppets, a musical composition, or a dance—are just a few.

 

Dr. De Sal states that the best part of these projects for her has been discovering, through students and colleagues, a new way of “seeing,” and sharing in their excitement about having the leisure to do something original. “It is a kind of art without borders or grades, and with each assignment turned in, I am inspired to step out of my comfort zone and be newly creative myself. Expertise here is not the guiding force. There is no judgment. What matters is insight, imagination, and a little dreaming.”

 

Feeling inspired by Dr. De Sal’s challenge? Become a 76’er and send in photos of your submission to jdesal@sierracanyonschool.org. Parents, students, and faculty are all welcome to accept the challenge!