Children's puzzle piece exhibit shows how everyone fits in

Young artists celebrated a summer of creativity at the Station Arts Centre camp with an exhibit entitled Piece by Piece. (Robin Krafft Photo)

Robin Krafft, Post Correspondent

The children who attended summer camp programs at the Station Arts Centre created artwork in the shape of puzzle pieces, which were gradually assembled to form a large collaborative art installation.

The completed mural, entitled Piece by Piece - Our Summer Story, was on display from July 27 to Aug. 21 in the Patenaude Family Gallery, accompanied by the gallery statement: "Every puzzle piece was created by a camper at Station Arts Centre. Individually, they tell unique stories. Together, they become a vibrant picture of creativity, friendship, and a summer spent making art."

The weekly themes explored over the course of five weeks promoted deep thinking about abstract ideas: Discover ("What makes you unique?"), Imagine ("If anything were possible?"), Explore ("The world around us"), Kindness ("How do we make others feel welcome?"), and Celebrate ("What will you remember most about this summer?").

"I wanted it to be so that the kids had to think about it and how they could use their own creativity and individuality to express their ideas," said Executive Director and Curator Tabitha Verbuyst. "The kids really enjoyed the project!"

Parents were also delighted to see their children's work exhibited. It was clear that the children were utilizing their creativity, but it was also nice to see it as part of the community. Blank puzzle pieces were also available for visitors to decorate and add to the installation.

"It showcases how camp continues to grow and inspire others," Verbuyst said. "Every puzzle piece can fit. It shows how creativity flourishes regardless of age. I'm really happy with how it turned out."

Campers aged three to 12 years old participated in the project, which was then displayed in the space where they meet every morning. It was a good icebreaker and an opportunity to see that their work was being celebrated.

"The kids were really engaged, and some of them want to be involved with the arts," Verbuyst said. "Hopefully they'll continue pursuing that."