Not only do young people make a difference to the less fortunate in their communities by raising money, sharing their skills and volunteering at local non-profits, from an early age many children growing up on the First Coast have discovered art as a creative way to visually express the joy of giving back.
Invited to articulate the beauty of philanthropy through drawing, painting or sculpture, students at several schools in the greater Jacksonville area shared their artistic vision of what it means to be a generous community. The following are a few of their submissions.
“Tribute to Generosity”
Tribute to Generosity is about how we are all tied together in our humanity. Providing a helping hand does well for the public, however, it can often put restrictions on our own lives. Yet, we must find in our own heart to break the chain of restrictions and realize that the act of philanthropy is part of what brings humanity together.
Svetlana Saleh, Wolfson High School, Grade 12
“Tribute to Generosity” September 2016
Size: 14”(W)x 19”(H) x 10”(D)
Medium: Plaster wrap, wood, metallic paints, wire
“Big Heart”
I chose to create a colorful heart because it takes a big heart to serve others and be giving.
Braylon Cook, Riverside Presbyterian Day School, Grade 2
“Everyone gives and loves”
Two budding young artists collaborate to show the synergism of giving and loving.
Shepherd College and Olivia Davis, Riverside Presbyterian Day School, Kindergarten
“Rivers Soothe the Soul”
The Main Street Bridge reflected in the peaceful St. John’s River shows the importance of keeping our rivers clean so the people of Jacksonville can take in this amazing site. I try to do my part to keep our waters clean by picking up cans and trash near our rivers.
Miles Easley, Fishweir Elementary School, Grade 3
“All you need is LOVE”
The hands are a way to show how to give, the heart shows compassion, the American flag represents the ultimate way to serve one’s country.
Parker Buerck, The Episcopal School of Jacksonville, Grade 6
“Be a Giving and Compassionate Hero”
The girl holding up her hand is saying NOW is the TIME to deliver the message that everyone deserves compassion and respect.
Isabel Colón, The Episcopal School of Jacksonville, Grade 8
“Circles of Giving”
This digital painting shows someone reaching out to the poor or elderly and showing them care, compassion, and charity.
Savanna Ludden, Bishop Kenny, Grade 10
“Kindness Matters”
Most people when they think about giving, think of donating money, but it’s more than that. Giving can truly touch someone’s life, and when you do it in kindness, it’s powerful.
Emily Skyles, Bishop Kenny, Grade 10
