CLARION - As Clarion-Goldfield schools face tight budgets, the Teachers and Parents group is stepping in to help.

The big project right now is a local art show.

"We were contacted by the high school principal that the art teacher needed a new table for her art classes," said Erica Lindaman, president of TAP. "It's an expense the school couldn't afford with budget cuts, so we decided to do an art show."

Lindaman said this is the first art event the group has put together, and the goal is to get as many kids involved as possible.

"The art show will predominately feature art from K-12 students and preschoolers," Lindaman said.

The group was hoping to lure artistic adults' work as well, but right now modesty is winning out.

"There is one woman in particular who creates some really amazing art, but she doesn't think it's anything special," Lindaman said. "We've tried to convince her otherwise, but maybe we'll have better luck next year."

When it comes to the kids, though, there's nothing but excitement about the show, Lindaman said.

"I help with the Boy Scouts too, and the other night the boys were all talking about art class and how hard they're working on their projects," Lindaman said. "It was great to hear how much they were looking forward to showing their families what they've made."

Many of the students have been working on pieces specifically for the show. For example, fifth-grade students are making foil Inca masks and third grade students are making tissue paper art projects.

The sixth-graders' projects may show spectators that imperfection can be the epitome of creation.

"They are making watercolors," Lindaman said. "It's emphasizing that art doesn't need to be perfect with quick sketches and then the watercolors on top."

The art show will run from Dec. 7 through the 12 at the Clarion Public Library during library hours. A box for free will donations will be available, and that is how the group plans to raise the money.

While the money is an important part of the show, Lindaman is excited for the kids to have an outlet for their art.

"It's a chance for high school students to show off their hard work and receive some recognition they might not get otherwise because they're not in sports," Lindaman said.

Karla Thompson, the kindergarten sixth-grade art teacher, echoed Lindaman's sentiments.

"Art is a way for these students to expand their abilities, knowledge of art, and their belief in themselves that they are creative," Thompson said.

If everything goes well this year, Lindaman said TAP plans to make the art show an annual event.

"We would like to continue this because besides the conference art show there's no outlet for the kids to their work," Lindaman said, "and this is about boosting their confidence."

Contact Lindsey Mutchler at (515) 573-2141 or lindsey@messengernews.net