Riley Avenue Elementary School unveiled a student-created mosaic masterpiece this morning in the school library.
The mosaic mural, depicting a colorful tree, was crafted by Riley Avenue students under the direction of Manorville artist Clare Bennett.
“Without her creativity, inspiration and dedication to students of Riley this would not be possible,” art teacher Melissa Haupt said of the artist. Bennett, she said, talked with the children about mosaics she’s seen on trips to Istanbul, Ireland and other places.
Bennett and Haupt removed a paper covering from the mural to the applause of students, parents and teachers gathered in the library for the occasion.
“Everybody had a hand in this, every student in the school,” Riley Avenue principal David Enos said.
Bennett has done a number of installations in area schools, though this was her first project in Riverhead. She said she really enjoys working with children on glass and mosaic projects.
The children felt the same way. The principal presented her with a large hand-made thank-you card signed by all of Riley’s students.
“It was fun to do. Maybe we can do another one,” first-grander Angelina Gust said.
“The best part was all of us coming together to work on it,” said fourth-grader Terrence Lebrady.
“This is a permanent installation,” Haupt said. “Someday maybe some of these students will bring their own children here and show them the mural they helped create when they went to school here.”
RiverheadLOCAL photos by Denise Civiletti
Click thumbnails to enlarge images
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