On May 29, Redmond Mayor John Marchione accompanied Audubon Elementary School’s Art Docents and students for a preview of their International Night art work titled, “How & Why Stories: Folktales from Around the World.” The art walk is part of the school’s annual International Night, which celebrates the rich diversity of the student population through family-hosted country tables, performances and sporting demonstrations.

Using special passports designed for the evening, visitors to Audubon’s International Night explored student art work that references art techniques and cultures ranging from Alaska to Australia. The mayor learned how visitors of all ages could interact with each art display, exploring flipbooks and panels describing the folktales and art styles, and then use what they learned to solve a fun meta puzzle in their passports.

The art walk showcases the artistic imagination of the students and the vitality and importance of the monthly parent-led art classes where students learn art vocabulary, art techniques, creative problem solving, interdisciplinary knowledge and cultural and artistic awareness and appreciation. The Art Docent program at Audubon is a PTSA-sponsored enrichment program that has developed over 13 years into a vital part of the children’s education.