Art teacher is a gift to students

To the Eagle:

When my son, now a Wahkiakum High School senior, was in preschool at St. James, a delicate lady named Mrs. Hauge would come to teach the children about classical art.

Some might think preschoolers wouldn’t absorb the knowledge she shared, but I watched rapt three-year-olds, and, even months later, heard my son’s accounts of the art postcards she gave each child. Mrs. Hauge was my first -- and these children’s first - - introduction to our local art angels, community members who expose young people to the arts.

Much more recently, I have had the pleasure to coordinate Seattle Shakespeare’s visits to the WHS stage, an event made possible by new art angels. This year, Hotel Cathlamet graciously housed our actors, and Cathy Murphy, Paula Culbertson, and Stephanie Lietz all gave generous financial and logistical help to this year’s production.

Last year, many others helped instigate what we hope will be annual shows and workshops. You all exposed our students to the magic of live Shakespeare; know that it was a hit! Our students also are given ample opportunity to develop and exhibit their talents.

Sue Garn, our WHS art teacher, has been truly angelic for her lucky students this year. Her projects elicit a wide range of beautiful responses which are not confined to the classroom. In cooperation with the Tsuga Gallery and Friends of Skamokawa, she has brought student art to local walls and eyes. She has championed her students in their first ESD 112 and Washington state shows. She has also exposed students to art through three field trips. Her gifts to,and true love for, her students, are immeasurable.

Our children perpetuate a world they know. Mrs. Hauge is no longer in our midst, but I think she would be pleased by the knowledge of the arts sustained by these, and many other, artistic angels in our community. Thank you, art angels -- we are blessed that you walk among us!

Audrey Petterson

Skamokawa