Graves Middle School hosted their first art event, Night of the Arts, Wednesday, March 14, as they brought back their art programs to their school for the first time in over ten years.
Night of the Arts was an evening event for students, families, and the community to enjoy. Students displayed their art work that ranged from oil paintings, color pencil drawings, and sketches. Some of the young artists were there at the event, along with their art teacher, Snow Nakajima. Selected art pieces were auctioned off and attendees were also able to vote for the nights “Best in Show” art piece.
Graves Middle School band participated in the Night of the Arts as well by playing a variety of songs for attendees. Graves’ band is under the instruction of Ben Murillo. This is Murillo’s first year at Graves and he has already made great strides in building up the band program. A measurement of his successes so far is that this year was Graves first time receiving a unanimous superior mark on reading and playing music.
"We are so happy to have a full arts program back at Graves,” principal, Dr. Fraijo stated. “Kids can express their creativity in art, painting, band, and STEM. Our art kids did some amazing work, and our band kids received unanimous superior ratings at the Whittier Union Band Festival in the areas of performance, and for music sight reading. We are so proud of them."
The night also included a water color bookmark station, snacks, and raffles for attendees.
This year Graves has made great efforts and large strides to bring the arts back to their campus and to build up strong creative programs for their students.