Student Creativity Takes Centre Stage at LUNA Orbit
Crescent’s campus turned into a massive art gallery and performance space on May 2 for LUNA Orbit. The celebration of student creativity kicked off at 5 p.m. with a family BBQ, fueling art appreciators for the evening ahead.
From the hallways to the classrooms, the Formal Garden to the gymnasiums, libraries and beyond, nearly every inch of Crescent featured carefully curated works of art or performances. A show of this size is an “all hands on deck” moment, involving help from every level of the community to execute—from dedicated facilities team members to faculty and staff, “LUNA involves people bringing their skills, talent and passion together to create something bigger than themselves,” says Head of Arts Godric Latimer-Kim. The students understand that their contribution is an important part of the larger piece, she says. “In an ensemble, every single person is instrumental in creating the whole. At LUNA, we have boys creating, sharing their learning, and celebrating one another.”
Those strolling through the Upper Loggia would have seen artwork from Upper School students, like the architectural drawings from Grade 10 or the fractured self-portraits of Grade 11. The CCL was full of artwork from Middle School students, including works inspired by neo-expressionist Basquiat and glass artist Chihuly. The expansive MS/US Library displayed work by the Lower School students, including 3D paper sculptures and robot mono prints.
Grade 11 Visual Arts students wove a fundraising component into their show. Titled "Defining Culture: Square Inch Painting Project," it explored the concept of culture through the creative expressions of the students. “Each student was tasked with painting a piece that reflected what culture meant to them,” says visual arts faculty Jody Roberts. “The diversity of perspectives and artistic styles resulted in a breathtaking collection of artworks.” Alongside the display of the original paintings were prints for sale, with proceeds going to the Toronto Arts Foundation. The initiative raised $650. “We believe that the arts help cities thrive, and we are honoured to contribute to their efforts in bringing the arts to all corners of our city,” says Roberts.
