JCA « petits artisan » sew their way to summer!
On June 6, John Caboto Academy teachers Khalida Smahi and Martine Brosseau showcased the magnificent work that their Club les petits artisans completed this school year in sewing their own pencil cases. The school’s community “arts consultant” Simon Chang was on hand to offer much deserved accolades to all of the student artists.
With materials donated by Damar International, a Chabanel-area textile importer via Chang, the pencil cases ranged in colour from black to beige, pink and blue and every other colour under the rainbow. While each case had the same dimensions, the students added their own original touches with the fabric and decorations, from buttons to bows, that they chose.
Chang was thrilled to see the students’ creative work, impressed by the fact that, under the exceptional instruction of Smahi and Brosseau, the students eagerly choose to participate in this lunchtime club and are quick to voice their enjoyment in sewing and creating.
“I was so taken with the students’ imagination and creativity. Each pencil case has a ‘wow’ factor, showing individuality and personality,” said Chang as he signed each students’ pencil case upon their request.
Chang was equally as enchanted with the students themselves. “They are such kind and intelligent young people, polite and respectful,” he said.
Simon Chang visited JCA students on June 6 to see the pencil cases that they created this school year.
“I am very proud of our students and the work they have done. They invested themselves fully in our project and were able to see the fruit of their labour. There is creativity, mutual aid and patience. Madame Martine and I had a lot of fun working together,” shared Smahi, when asked of her reflections of this past year.
This was a rewarding project that has the potential to be replicated in other classrooms across the board. But for now, it’s time for the students to put their pencil cases aside and wait until September to have the opportunity to use them. Enjoy the summer!
