On the sunny morning of May 7th, the third and fourth-grade class ventured south to see what they would learn about the New Mexican desert and one of America’s most famous female artists, Georgia O’Keeffe. Along the way, a pit stop was made in the Carson National Forest to visit the Echo Amphitheater. Everyone was grateful to stretch their legs after the long journey, and getting to shout into the unique rock formation was an added bonus. Of course, we had to belt out a hearty “WORK HARD-PLAY HARD” to reverberate out into the desert winds.
When we arrived at Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, that wind greeted us with a gusto of swirling red sand high in the sky. The kids were unphased and enjoyed the opportunity to run around until it was time for a quick hike. Ms. Caitlin had scouted out the perfect spot to set intentions for the trip, and we made our way down to a dry riverbed with a beautiful vantage point of impressive red cliffs. I shared a few of Georgia O’Keeffe’s quotes about her initial impression of this unique landscape, the way she painted what she felt rather than saw, and not overthink creating art. With that in mind, the students scattered to meditate, journal, and sketch until sunset.
The following day, our crew loaded up to head into Santa Fe for the remainder of the trip. Along the way, we stopped for a private tour of Ms. O’Keefe’s remarkable home and gardens. These kids asked fantastic questions, impressing our guides with thoughtfulness and inquisitiveness. As an added bonus, this class got to venture to The White Place. A stark contrast to the surrounding environment, this white wonder towered overhead, enveloping us in a scene we had just seen painted on Georgia’s canvas! Students water-colored originals as well as their own versions of O’Keeffe’s famous works from this exact location.
With a buzz of excitement and apprehension, it was time to venture into la gran ciudad to order dinner en español at La Choza. There were as many giggles as lemonade refills (¡muchos!) as everyone made their dinner requests in Spanish. ¡Bravo a todos!
The last day in Santa Fe was nonstop fun. The students had learned so much about Ms. O’Keeffe’s work and were eager to see “her REAL paintings!” The morning began with a special visit to see her largest collection of masterpieces along with an assortment of her iconic treasures; the black hat and dress, her hand-made GO broach, brushes, painting materials and more. Once again, these learners flabbergasted our guide with their knowledge and curiosity to know more! With fresh inspiration, the visit was followed by a final opportunity to channel their inner Georgias with an art lesson on using pastels and props. Students arranged real bones, flowers, and feathers, designing their own gems Georgia would be proud of. After a quick bit of free time on the Santa Fe square, we were off to the highly anticipated Meow Wolf- a different type of art. This wild maze of mystery and marvelous wonder did not disappoint, and there was still one more activity to cap off the trip! Cooking with Kids was awaiting our arrival when we returned to the house, and the TMS chefs gladly got to work. Everyone enjoyed a delicious meal of tostadas y ensalada fresca made from scratch. The evening wrapped up with an impromptu talent show highlighting this group’s incomparable confidence, joy, and camaraderie.
~Courtney Liebich, Lower School Spanish Teacher and Co-Trip Leader