ELMS Students Create Public Art!

As part of the Route 1 beautification effort underway in Elkridge, ELMS students have made a significant contribution to this worthy cause by lending their artistic talents.

Last school year, many ELMS students, under the direction of our art teacher Patti Battaglia, and Artist in Residence Mary Deacon Opasik, created a beautiful "under the water" mosaic that is now proudly displayed on the exterior of the Elkridge Branch of the Howard County Library System.

This art project, created with broken glass, dishes and other recycled items, was created during the 2007/2008 school year. Ms. Battaglia began organizing this huge art venture, along with her supervisor, Mark Coates, during the summer of 2007.

On Monday, September 15th, the official dedication took place to honor the artists who helped to create this gorgeous work of art. County Executive Ulman, Council Members Courtney Watson and Mary Kay Sigaty, State Delegate Malone and other dignitaries were present for this special occasion. As reported in the Baltimore Sun,“This is the ultimate conclusion of the hard work and dedication these students and adult leaders have shown. Stop by and admire the amazing ocean scene up close while visiting the library. It is a sight to behold!”

This project marks the first time a piece of art created by students participating in the Artist in Residence Program was developed to be displayed in a public place other than a school. I would like to acknowledge and thank the Howard County Arts Council and the Howard County Government for helping sponsor this special project. I also want to thank Ms. Battaglia and Ms. Opasik for doing such a great job helping our students create such a wonderful and lasting work of art.