By Elaine Lee, Guest Blogger and P.S. ARTS Photographer & Supporter
Every child should have an opportunity to find their artistic expression.
Our lives are about experiences. My passion and appreciation for all things creative and beautiful came from a happy childhood filled with creativity – art, music, dance, and photography. My dad was a butcher by profession, but I remember him most as a poet, calligrapher, photographer, dancer, and philosopher. He believed our lives should be balanced between work, play, and the arts. He encouraged me to follow my heart and pursue my creative passions.
At one time, San Francisco public schools offered art, dance, choir, band, orchestra, home economics, and wood shop. I loved all of it and signed up for everything! I want children today to have the same opportunities that I had. P.S. ARTS is providing that opportunity. They are reaching out to kids in underfunded and underserved areas. Once upon a time, art was part of the school curriculum. Today, children have to find art outside of the school. Competition is stiff and much of the fun is taken away. I love that P.S. ARTS is giving kids a chance to LOVE art and music. Children are our future. Creating balance, opportunities, and experiences will guide them on their life’s journey.
I thank Maria Bell for introducing me to P.S. ARTS. As her personal photographer since 1995, I have had the privilege and honor of photographing her family and the extraordinary special events that she has created through the years. She invited me to photograph Express Yourself in 2003 and the rest is colorful history! I love photographing the children – capturing their youthful innocence, their focus and wonderment, their joy and delight, and that special bond that they have with their parents.
It’s been a rewarding and blessed experience growing with P.S. ARTS these past 10 years. Thank you for your vision and your amazing gift to the children. I look forward to many more years of celebrating with P.S. ARTS! Check out my photo gallery here!
With love and gratitude,
Elaine
