LINCOLNVILLE — Artist in residence Randy Fein and her 122 students, in grades 4 through 8 at Lincolnville Central School collaborated to create a ceramic relief mural entitled, "Our Community Watershed, Protect and Preserve."

The project began two years ago with a proposal to the Maine Arts Commission, plus other matching funds. Fein began working with Lincolnille Art Teacher Jackie Copper and her students starting in October 2017.

Copper took the classes on exploratory walks outside the school building in the fall. The students kept a visual and written journal of their newfound personal connection to the watershed .Each student's journal served as an inspirational resource providing imagery for the mural.

The artist chose a theme that has inspired much of her own ceramic sculpture. The local landscape, and the flora, and fauna that comprise Maine's watersheds are an integral part of her studio practice.

Fein said: "One of the goals of this project was to heighten student's environmental awareness concerning the fragile ecosystems of the Megunticook Watershed. The Megunticook Watershed encompasses a major portion of the Town of Lincolnville. These interconnected bodies of water are an integral part of the community. The students of the Lincolnville Central School and their families live, play, and sometimes work on or near by the Megunticook Watershed's rivers, streams, pond, and lake. It is my hope that in creating this collaborative art work the students understand how the interrelated habitats of humans and animals can harmonize to form the delicate balance required for preservation of our pristine watershed." 

She added: The artwork was specifically designed for Walsh Common, the multi-purpose room at Lincolnville Central School, and will be seen by the Lincolnville community. This room is not only used by the students during school hours but also used by the community after school for public functions. The bright springtime color palette that I selected for students to use results in an artwork that will brighten up any indoor winter's day."

On May 22 at 6:30 p.m., the public is invited to view the new artwork and meet Fein and her students. The artist will present a short video and tell the story behind creating this new installation. The event will also feature a performance by the LCS band and chorus.

 All will take place at Lincolnville Central School 523 Hope Road Lincolnville in Walsh Common.

For more information contact:  LCS at 763-3366