Banff-based artist Mindy Johnstone and Megan Jenniex, a Success Coach with Right from the Start (RFTS), are undertaking a unique educational initiative at Banff Elementary School (BES). In partnership with artsPlace, and the Canadian Rockies Public School’s Right from The Start (RFTS) program, the Right from the HeART program aims to broaden students’ horizons, encouraging them to explore the limitless possibilities of creativity and self-expression.

Recently, the grade four class explored the surrealist art movement of the 20th Century. Using work by artists such as Salvador Dali, René Magritte, and Remedios Varo, Johnstone and Jenniex introduced students to a world where logic is intertwined with the absurd, sparking a whirlwind of enthusiasm, curiosity, and no shortage of quizzical laughter.

“These paintings make me think in ways I’ve never imagined before,” remarked one student, captivated by Magritte’s thought-provoking images. “These pictures are funny but also eery, not something I have ever seen before.”

Jenniex and Johnstone emphasize the pivotal role programs like Right from the HeART play in supporting mental health and personal growth of young learners. Exploration through art education is pivotal in developing coping mechanisms and tools for emotional expression, addressing the one-size-does-not-fit-all nature of mental health.

“Our school has a big focus on using a ‘growth mindset’ in learning, and art is the perfect example of trying something new,” said Jenniex. “By celebrating mistakes and embracing challenges, students and teachers set the foundation for continued conversations and learning in all subjects.” 

The essence of this initiative underscores profound impact of art education. By exposing students to artistic movements and techniques from around the world, the initiative teaches them the importance of viewing the world through various lenses, embracing different perspectives, and expressing oneself in unique ways.

“Art creates a valuable outlet for students to discover unique ways of expressing themselves,” said Johnstone. “By partnering with RFTS and the team at CRPS, students learn at a young age that art positively influences our mental state of mind, allowing them to develop tools to work through perfectionism and appreciate the uniqueness of their classmates through art.”

By connecting students with artists and the narrative of art as an outlet for expression, BES and RFTS is supporting a model of education that recognizes the intrinsic value of creativity in developing well-rounded, empathetic, and engaged thinkers. Art education not only enriches the students’ learning journey but also prepares them to navigate the complexities of the world with an open mind and a creative spirit.

The Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation have donated $40,000 to artsPlace since 2022 to fund Right from the HeART. This funding is designed to reaffirm the role of art in fostering understanding, kindness, and a vibrant learning experience for students in the Bow Valley.