Yesterday we were very honored to be visited by the United Nations Ambassador of Art from Nigeria, Ibiyinka Alao. Ambassador Alao's artworks are characterized by bright colors and they express many themes including hope, joy, peace and love - a reflection of his West African roots.
Ibiyinka preformed a presentation to our 3rd through 6th grade students at Southern. Students learned songs in his native African Tongue and how to dance. Alao shared his artwork and meaning between each piece.
In between his presentations, he did multiple workshops with our middle school gifted students. The students created a piece of artwork and writing piece. Mr. Alao also took time to answers student questions, and discussed his world travels.
Our greatest lesson learned from the ambassador is to be like the oyster. As you know, a pearl comes when a bit of sand goes into the oyster. In its discomfort, in its suffering, the oyster secretes a substance that covers the sand and which eventually becomes a pearl. If we pour love and respect at people that might irritate or annoy us, we might turn them too into pearls. This global message of caring is one that will stick with us.
Thank you so much for teaching us about Nigeria, Art, Music, and humanity! We will treasure your visit with us always.
If you wish to learn more about Ambassador Alao, please visit his websites below:
1. http://www.ibiyinka.com
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ibiyinka_Alao
3. Ambassador Alao
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