PHOTO GALLERY: Splattering interpretations of painter Pollock

There wasn’t any of the moody intensity attributed to abstract American painter Jackson Pollock, but there sure was intense concentration.

As part of their curriculum, young students at the Island Montessori Academy on Marco interpreted the work of the famous painter Sept. 23 on the school’s playground.

The session was run by volunteer artist Jane Greatorex, who exposes the 4 to 8-year-old students to the work of different artists, sculptors or photographers every week.

An artist, underwater photographer and honors graduate in graphic design and illustration, Greatorex said children generally display various levels of artistic ability, but that a little basic instruction definitely helps.

“Last year we did art from different cultures, and this year it’s different artists until Christmas,” she said.

They include Pollock, British sculptor Andy Goldsworthy, French photographer Yann Arthus-Bertrand, Spanish Catalan painter Joan Miro and American icon Georgia O’Keeffe.

During the session, the students each produced their own “Jackson Pollock” and then chipped in with flying paintbrushes to create a combined effort.

All the paintings will be exhibited at a fundraiser to be held later this year at the school, said founder and school head Lisa Baldwin.

During the playground session, student Christopher Kimble said he found Pollock’s work — as explained by Greatorex — “really interesting,” and said he doesn’t think he’ll sell the painting he created.

“I’ll probably get to keep it,” he said.

The Academy, according to its mission statement, strives to create an educational community of families that inspire children to develop inner discipline, self-assurance, and a love of learning.

“Our program provides a nurturing, balanced learning environment that fosters responsibility and cooperation through academic and social development,” the statement says.

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