7th Grade Blue Dog

Jacque Rodrigue reading from his father's book, wearing art created by Judith Parsons.
Photos by Chopper photography 2020.

Edited Blue Dog press release:

Cedarwood School’s 7th Grade students had their first experience with sculpting masks this past February. Their focus was George Rodrigue’s Blue Dog. They each had the opportunity to recreate the Blue Dog in their own unique vision of it, mirroring Rodrigue’s versatile use of his main icon. The children interpreted the masks into various themes: stained glass geometric, alligator, and the American Flag to name a few. Their abstract discoveries were shared with George’s son, Jacques Rodrigue. He visited the school and even tried on a mask. He spoke with the students about The George Rodrigue Art Foundation, which supports young artists in achieving their artistic dreams. 

Attentive students at Cedarwood school.
Photo by Chopper Photography 2020.

Now- the rest of the story:

Finally, I have the seed of the story, the whole Jack-in-the bean stalk story. Art is about family. The legendary George Rodrigue lives on with his son. Jacque allowed us into the storybook memories that brought the Blue Dog alive.

The real dog that inspired his famous paintings was seriously protective of George, and used to nip and bite at visitors that came into the studio. The son smiled as he reflected upon the hours his dad spent painting the Cajun history we all have come to know and love.

I have students who have artist as parents and grandparents. They proudly tell me about their granddad who sculpts and another dad who paints. Then, there are mother’s who come into the school to help decorate the hall ways for our international parade. I am blown away by their creations. They have created hanging plum tree art and waves with surf boards. All that art waits for us to come back. To replant the seeds of creativity. To plant anew again.

The time of coronavirus is a strange place of mask and protective gear. The mask art you see here isn’t trying to protect anyone from anything. Maybe it is time to make art again that celebrates the New Orleans we all know and love, to create masks of playful wonder. 

This blog is written with my seventh grade students in mind. I miss y’all! This year you rose to the challenge. You rolled up your sleeves and you stepped up and made amazing art! My first year at Cedarwood was amazing- because of y’all!

Brilliant creative masks by incredible students! Thank you 7th grade!