Brookline High students showcase art at Goddard House intergenerational exhibit

The Brookline School Committee meeting on February 6, 2025, highlighted a collaborative art exhibit between Brookline High School (BHS) students and the Goddard House, an assisted living community. The initiative aims to foster intergenerational connections through the visual arts, showcasing student artwork in a professional gallery setting.

During the meeting, Donna Sutanowicz, the Visual Arts Curriculum Coordinator, emphasized the importance of art in society and the desire to share students' work with the broader community. The collaboration began when Meredith Griffin, the art therapist at Goddard House, reached out to BHS, coinciding with the school's interest in community engagement.

The exhibit features a variety of artworks created by BHS students, including drawings, paintings, and photographs. Each piece is accompanied by titles and statements from the artists, providing insight into their creative processes and perspectives. This initiative not only allows students to display their work outside of school but also encourages meaningful interactions with the residents of Goddard House.

Griffin noted the positive impact of the exhibit on the residents, who expressed excitement and appreciation for the students' talent. Many residents reported feeling connected to the younger generation through the art, with one stating it was their favorite exhibition of the year. The upcoming gallery event will further enhance this connection, allowing students to engage directly with the residents.

BHS art teachers Liz Brennan and Lori Lynn also spoke about the benefits of the project for their curriculum, highlighting how it legitimizes students' work and fosters a sense of pride. Students Connor Roche, Maria Udolova, and Ellie Churchill shared their experiences, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to showcase their art and engage with the community.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue this collaboration, reinforcing the significance of art as a bridge between generations and a means of fostering community connections. The success of this initiative underscores the value of creative expression in enhancing social bonds and understanding across age groups.