NYCATA/UFT Artworks ’11 conference

Pat Arnow

Davidson (right) presents an Art Educator award to Lau. More photos >>

Pat Arnow

Christina Mart of PS 106 in the Bronx shows an example of a fold-out book that students can make.

Pat Arnow

Debbi Gibson of Manhattan’s PS 20 demonstrates a pyramid that integrates math and art.

Around 300 educators took time out from teaching art and working in their studios for the 31st annual conference of the New York City Art Teachers Association/UFT on Oct. 22. Examining art education through the lens of the Common Core Learning Standards was the main focus of the conference, “Artworks ’11,” reported Joan Davidson, the longtime president and chair of the association. Subtitled “Art Education: Journey of Discoveries,” the event offered many opportunities to discover how art inspires young minds through 34 workshops, all based on the new learning standards and applicable toward professional development credit. A highlight of the conference, held fittingly in spacious, glass-walled rooms at ultramodern Frank Sinatra School of the Arts HS in Queens, was a video presentation about renowned New York-based painter Kehinde Wiley. Among the art educators recognized were elementary school category winner Pearl Lau of PS 230 and middle school winner Rob Aviles of IS 347, both of Brooklyn. Brian Reisman, who teaches at PS 17 in the Bronx, won in the District 75 category. Frank Carucci, a former UFT vice president and lifelong supporter of the arts, won the Special Recognition Award for his outstanding leadership in art education. “The day provided great opportunities to network with colleagues,” said Davidson, who received the Leadership Award. “An important aspect of the conference is inspiring teachers to bring the passion they have for art, along with new knowledge, into the classroom.”