Alpine Artisans Kris Gullikson and Gene Schade presenting SLE teachers Erika Pitman and Sharon Teague with a check for $946 while the junior high art students work on their multi-media projects.
SEELEY LAKE & Swan Valley – The art supplies Giving Tree started by local artist Kris Gullikson raised $1,246 to purchase art supplies at Seeley Lake Elementary and Swan Valley Elementary Schools. Gullikson thought the event was so successful, she hopes to make it an annual opportunity to support the schools.
For the month of December, the community had the opportunity to donate towards a wish list of supplies that Gullikson compiled from SLE teachers. Instead of organizing the purchases either through the donors or herself, Gullikson instead raised the funds that would be given to the school that allowed the teachers purchase what they desired for their classrooms.
"I know some of the teachers buy supplies out of their own pockets," said Gullikson. "I feel it's very important to put supplies in the hands of the kids for the experience of it all. To touch and feel the texture; to paint with watercolor and SEE the transparency of it, feel the paper and watch the paint flow!"
The Giving Tree was first displayed at the Alpine Artisan's Annual Holiday party at the Rich Ranch. A total of $696 was raised there with $300 specifically going to Swan Valley School. The tree was then put on display at the Grizzly Claw Trading Post where another $220 was raised.
In addition to the community support, Gullikson donated $330. She explained that every December the Seeley Lake Bunko players each put in $20. The winner at the end of the month has the option to donate the money to any non-profit of their choice!
"I won and I was like, that was easy. I know where that is going," said Gullikson.
Tuesday, Jan. 15 Gullikson and Alpine Artisan, Inc. treasurer Gene Schade presented a check to SLE for $946. Swan Valley School will also receive $300 from AAI for supplies.
"This is so exciting because now we can buy supplies for our students," said Sharon Teague, sixth grade and junior high art teacher who said she often purchases art supplies out of her pocket. "We have some classroom funds for the art elective but it is divided among four quarters and the play props as well as the art. It is spread pretty thin."
The art students also echoed Teague's appreciation when they heard about the donation.
Alpine Artisans thanks all those that generously contributed to this effort. They hope to connect teachers with individual artists to assist and inspire new budding artists in the community.
"We hope to do this on an annual basis as it was such a hit", said Gullikson. "So watch for the little Giving Tree next year."
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