“The Sights and Sounds of Africa.” art project

Hands-on activities that celebrate African culture and traditions are bringing Black History Month to life for students at the Barnard Early Childhood Center. Art teacher Lori Zung worked with students on projects reflecting the theme, “The Sights and Sounds of Africa.” (See the artwork here.)

Pre-K students learned about traditional east African necklaces work by the Maasai tribe of Kenya and Tanzania, and also about traditional ceremonial masks. The students then made their own colorful creations.

Kindergarteners made rain sticks, after learning about the significance of these musical instruments in African culture.

First-graders explored the history of Kente cloth, a textile practice that originated in the west African country of Ghana. The students then created their own designs, featuring bright colors and geometric patterns.

Second-graders learned about the Ndebele tribe of South Africa, known for their colorful homes featuring geometric shapes that convey messages only the community can decipher. The students then drew pictures of homes reflecting this Ndebele tradition.

In addition, first- and second-graders will watch a performance by the Accent Dance Company next week, said Interim Assistant Principal Dr. Lori Pisani. Various dance genres important to Black history, including tap, hip hop, African dance, modern dance, and jazz, will be explored.