Juniors Use Technology to Learn about Art and David City's Native Son
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Bone Creek "I possess a profound belief that art reaches its maximum importance when it inspires those with whom it comes in contact." David City's own Dale Nichols said these words when those in the artistic community asked why he painted scenes of agrarian art. Many of his best and most famous works were painted from memory of his childhood and depicted barns, fields, and scenes that we might still see in our area today (minus the technology). In fact, the exhibition represents Nichols's ability to transcend the confines of regionalism to find universal success in art could probably resonate with many from the area who attend.
The Junior English class proceeded to use the Bone Creek Museum of Agrarian Art, iPods on loan from the Special Education Department, and podcasts and questions provided by Mr. Ockander to learn about this famous artist, most famous for his scenes from the David City area. The opportunity to view art, compare it to our current lives, and view the paintings from various perspectives allowed students to make their own ultimate conclusions about their favorites. One student wrote that her favorite was Platte Valley Summer because, "I liked the variation of the wheat and dirt to the barn in the middle of the field. It also reminded me of a barn we used to have in the middle of our own field. Others felt like Symphonic Silence depicted, "How big earth is compared to us," while another student commented, "It's beautiful and it shows a whole undiscovered world." Still others disagreed. "I liked End of the Trail because the texture is awesome and you can really see how sad he is." If you'd like to take part in the activity, the podcast and questions can be found at the bottom of the page. Whether you agree or disagree with the previous comments, you can make your own decisions and justifications for your own favorite painting.
For more information of your own, feel free to travel to museum on your own time. Or read more about Dale Nichols by checking out or purchasing Amanda Mobley Guenther's regionally acclaimed book titled Dale Nichols: Transcending Regionalism. With over two hundred pages and one hundred color images, the book may be purchased at bonecreek.org.
Special thanks to Anna Nolan, Amanda Mobley Guenther, and volunteers at the Bone Creek Museum. Mrs. Kabourek also provided invaluable assistance in synching and uploading the iPods for use. I have to apologize in advance if you listen to or view the Podcast; my birds felt like they needed to set the mood in the background (and they are louder than I thought at the time of the recording).
