SE Valley Times

CHANDLER, Ariz. – Acclaimed artist Judy Gelles brings a unique exhibition titled "The Fourth Grade Project" to the Chandler Museum, showcasing the perspectives of over 300 fourth-grade students from various countries and cultural backgrounds. The exhibition, which runs from April 23 to August 11, offers a glimpse into the lives of children around the world through a series of interviews and photographs.

Gelles, the artist behind the project, explains the significance of the children's voices, stating, "Their stories touch on some of our most common human experiences and urgent social issues." The children were asked three simple questions: Who do you live with? What do you wish for? What do you worry about? Their responses shed light on topics such as violence, immigration, family dynamics, global hunger, and the influence of media and popular culture.

In each portrait displayed, the children are depicted as individuals, yet their narratives reflect broader truths and societal challenges. Gelles notes a common thread among the fourth graders, stating, "Every group of fourth graders has very little contact with or knowledge of people from cultural or socioeconomic backgrounds different than their own."

Reflecting on the importance of the project, Gelles emphasizes, "The project allows students to learn about others’ lives in a uniquely personal way and to use the project as a catalyst for their own explorations." The exhibition aims to foster a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives and promote empathy among viewers.

To complement the global voices featured in the exhibition, local fourth graders from Galveston Elementary School in Chandler also participated by sharing their responses to the same questions. Their contributions will be showcased alongside the international comments, adding a local touch to the exhibit.

Visitors can experience "The Fourth Grade Project" at the Chandler Museum from April 23 to August 11, 2024. The museum, located at 300 S. Chandler Village Drive, welcomes guests Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free, offering an accessible opportunity for the community to engage with this thought-provoking exhibition.

For more information on the exhibition and related programming, interested individuals can visit the Chandler Museum website at chandlermuseum.org or contact the museum at 480-782-2717.

"The Fourth Grade Project" is organized by ExhibitsUSA, a program of Mid-America Arts Alliance, which aims to bring diverse arts and humanities experiences to communities across the country. The exhibition represents a collaborative effort to broaden cultural understanding and enrich local communities through the power of art.

As Judy Gelles' project continues to spark conversations and promote empathy worldwide, the Chandler Museum serves as a platform for sharing diverse stories, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering a deeper connection with the community's history and identity.