Experiencing Art in Nature

Field trips and immersive learning are some of the hallmarks of a NSMS education

Each fall, Maudslay State Park in Newburyport, Mass., hosts a wonderful outdoor sculpture exhibit for just a few weeks. The installations are unique each year, and some only last as long as the show.

It was a beautiful day to walk, reflect and wonder!

On October 1, North Shore Montessori School's lower elementary class got the chance to  stroll the grounds of the former estate on the banks of the Merrimack River, explore whimsical and thought-provoking sculptures created by artists from across the region.

Reach

Preparing for a trek and enjoying time to reflect are empowering for young learners.

Many of the pieces were designed with a specific view in mind; others were meant to be walked through, touched, or even played with. The children delighted in the clacking sounds of wood flapping in the breeze, experimenting with different tones a large bell could make, touching fuzzy and crinkly fabrics, and contemplating this year's theme: REACH.

Taking a moment to draw what we see helps us process the wonderful artwork.

Explore

It has been a beautiful fall, and the children clearly benefit from spending time outdoors and building friendships. We're grateful to the parents who helped chaperone this trip, and look forward to many more!