CARING FOR OUR ENVIRONMENT
The thought of sponsoring an art contest in connection with the 2010 United Nations International Year of Biodiversity came to me in the Fall of 2010.
The Ursuline sponsored poster contest was intended to encourage young people worldwide to artistically express their ideas in a visual way. I envisioned seeing images of our earth’s rich resources through the eyes of children in schools where our Ursuline Sisters teach. My aim was to promote wide participation, and to raise awareness about the importance of biological diversity and the need to conserve it.
Jessica Yankana, Grade 8, St. Gregory School, Danbury
First place in the Biodiversity Contest
the Organizer of the Biodiversity Contest
Display of Arts from IndiaStudents ages 8-14 were eligible to participate. I pictured children diligently drawing, coloring and painting on the same theme while learning about protecting our planet for the future. I was anticipating unique creative expressions of nature, animal life and care for the environment.
The entries I received truly reflected the young artists’ experiences and culture. 193 posters came from India, and 140 were submitted from the US. Each one showed originality and revealed thought and love for our planet. Selected posters will be displayed locally through the cooperation of an Indian Cultural Society and the local library.
I realized that it would be impossible for our 5 judges to select only a limited number from the Indian students, so a Certificate of Participation has been prepared for each individual student. A cash prize was offered to each participating school for their art department.
Individual prizes were given to several children in the U.S. in each age group.
I am very proud of the work being carried on in schools where our Ursuline Sisters teach. I wish to express my gratitude for the contribution of the children and the guidance of their instructors. Jane Quinlan
Together we make a difference on climate change!!!