2011 Summer Workshop at Docville
There was a lot of learning going on in St. Bernard when The Joseph and Arlene Charitable Foundation recently hosted its first ever Docville Farm Art Series, a four-day workshop, highlighting creative writing, art, photography, and culinary arts.
Twenty-five talented students from across the parish took part in the program, held on the grounds of Docville, a 132 acre farm designated for children to learn and have fun. This beautiful family farm and educational center, located on St. Bernard Highway by the Pecan Grove, provided an ideal setting for students to explore the arts.
The Series was produced by Barry and Katherine Lemoine of Old Arabi, Chris and Bill Haines of Docville, and the Voices Foundation. Barry Lemoine, a local playwright and educato, mentored the youngsters in creative writing while Katherine worked in painting in mixed media.
New Orleans born and New York based photographer Alison Gootee was another professional artist who took part in the program. She said that she was impressed by the seriousness and the eagerness of the participants.
“Sharing my knowledge with the kids and seeing them apply what they’ve learned, was very rewarding. They were excited about what they learned and inspired by the environment.”
Bill and Chris Haines of the Foundation served as the hosts for the series, allowing the students access to the farm and facilities. Bill called the entire experience uplifting.
“The Docville Farm Art Series has been a very uplifting event for all of us with the Meraux Foundation. Barry and Katherine Lemoine are wonderful at not only educating the young people, but really engage their creative minds! They, along with the very talented photographer Alison Gootee, have done a wonderful service to our community.”
“Sharing my knowledge with the kids and seeing them apply what they’ve learned, was very rewarding. They were excited about what they learned and inspired by the environment.”
Bill and Chris Haines of the Foundation served as the hosts for the series, allowing the students access to the farm and facilities. Bill called the entire experience uplifting.
“The Docville Farm Art Series has been a very uplifting event for all of us with the Meraux Foundation. Barry and Katherine Lemoine are wonderful at not only educating the young people, but really engage their creative minds! They along with the very talented photographer Alison Gootee have done a wonderful service to our community. “
Local pastry chef Doyle DeForest also shared his baking and culinary artistry and expertise with participants with assistance from his wife, Ronda. Parents also got to visit Docville to tour the grounds and view the artwork that was part of the culminating student showcase.
Haines said that he and the Meraux Foundation were proud to be a part of it all.
“The Meraux Foundation is very proud to be a part of such positive influences for our young creatives! Alison Gootee is a really talented photographer and you could see the enjoyment by all the participants in their faces!”Incoming 7th grader Austin Mankin said that his favorite part of the experience was the farm setting.
“Docville is really awesome. I can’t think of a better place to write, paint, and take pictures. “
Participants in the program included:
Natalya O’Haver, Victoria Green, Amanda Stedman, Emily Snyder, Randi Fritts, Daniel Lopez, Julia Verdon, Sarah Latapie, Lauren Vaillancourt, Jermaine Jiles, Gillian Chaisson, Maura Duhe, Vieta Collins, Jade Collins, Lauren Vinot, Austin Mankin, Stephen Schwartz, Titiyana Thomas, Kayla Gonzalez, Kelsey Billiot, Cole Nicosia, Gabby Maldanado, Jeremy Moniz, Emma Miller, and Alex Vaillancourt
Chalmette High graduates Alan Rocha and Duyen Hoang served as assistants to the artists.