For one special evening, Hastings families will get the chance to dress up, enjoy some culture, and admire the talents of Northeastern Elementary students — all without leaving the school building.
Northeastern is bringing back a special art event — this year it’s called Starry Night — which turns the school into a full-blown art gallery and auction house, filled with student-made artwork in all kinds of styles and formats.
It’s not the first time the school has hosted something like this. Similar events were held in 2015 and 2016, and they were a big hit with students, staff, and families. Now, with Starry Night making a return, excitement is building — and for good reason.
Participation is completely optional, but that hasn’t stopped students from jumping in with enthusiasm. More than half the school is involved, and the energy around the event is contagious.
Over the past couple of months, students signed up for after-school art classes where they could try out different creative techniques. These classes were taught by a mix of school staff and local artists, many of whom volunteered their time to work with the kids.
One of those artists is Lauren Tripp, a talented metalsmith and Northeastern parent.
She teaches classes at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts and this year, donated her time to teach students how to work with copper and other metals. She’s been joined by a whole crew of artists who have helped introduce kids to new materials and methods.
On Saturday, March 8, the school hosted a day packed with 12 different art workshops — a highlight for many students and organizers alike.
“This gives kids a chance to experience something they might not otherwise get to try,” said Abby Sikkenga, Northeastern’s administrative assistant and the event’s primary organizer. “It might spark a passion or help them discover something they really love.”
“The kids are just so happy. The whole experience feels kind of magical,” she added. “It lifts them up — it’s really cool to see.”
Third-grade teacher Emily Frith also played a big role in planning this year’s event. She was part of the team back in 2016, but this year is extra special — her own fifth-grade child is now taking part.
“Not everyone gets these experiences,” Frith said. “Getting to explore so many different types of art is such a rewarding experience for the kids.”
The types of art students have explored include pastels, acrylic painting, clay, mixed media, sewing, textiles, and more.
On the night of the event, the gym will be set up as a silent auction, and the library will serve as a “cash and carry” gallery. All of the artwork will be available for purchase, with the money going toward covering art supply costs.
“The support from parents has been incredible,” Sikkenga said. “Whether it’s helping with transportation or just cheering the kids on — they’ve been a huge part of making this event possible.”