IN CLASS: This feature is part of an ongoing education column highlighting the various activities that engage school communities.
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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Artwork created by Staten Island students was recently chosen for display at a Staten Island car show.
High school students at Michael J. Petrides School prepared Italian-themed vehicle artwork to be displayed at Casa Belvedere’s annual Italian Festival & Exotic Car Show, which was scheduled to take place this past weekend on Grymes Hill.
Seen here is artwork created by sophomore Nethra Perera.(Courtesy of Gerard Ucelli)
“The Michael J. Petrides School is proud to see our students’ artwork being featured at Casa Belvedere’s annual Columbus Day Weekend Car Show,” said Anthony Tabbitas, principal of Michael J. Petrides School. “This exciting opportunity allows our young artists to showcase their creativity to the Staten Island community. Student art enrichment is an integral part of our program, and we are thrilled to see our students’ talent recognized at such a vibrant community event.”
The display was coordinated by art teacher Gerard Ucelli, in partnership with Casa Belvedere, which is a cultural center devoted to Italian studies.
This piece was created for the car show by senior Catherine Keag.(Courtesy of Gerard Ucelli)
Mayka Rodriguez, a sophomore at Petrides, said that the journey of creating an art piece was both “challenging and rewarding.”
“Art is a window into the mind and soul — a light that can brighten even the dullest room without needing the sun,” said Rodriguez. “The piece I created for the Casa Belvedere Car Show is that window for me. It reflects my passion and love for art.”
This picture was produced by junior Giuliana Pannozzo.(Courtesy of Gerard Ucelli)
Erika Varga, assistant principal at Petrides, said that opportunities like this “inspire our students to connect their artistic talents with Staten Island’s rich cultural heritage.”
Student Yousif Algahmi, who is a senior, said: “I had a great time making this and am very pleased to have my work featured in this event, where many people can view and enjoy what I was able to make.”
Sophomore Mayka Rodriguez created this colorful picture of a scooter.(Courtesy of Gerard Ucelli)
Proceeds from the Casa Belvedere car show and festival benefit the Italian Cultural Foundation’s arts and cultural programs, college-bound student scholarship fund, and On Your Mark, which empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Senior Jordan Aimetti created this piece of artwork for the car show.(Courtesy of Gerard Ucelli)Send us your stories
Do you have a story idea for the In Class education column? Email education reporter Annalise Knudson at aknudson@siadvance.com.
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