SHEPHERDSTOWN — Girl Scouts from five troops, who are members of local Service Unit 1508, contributed artwork for an art show hosted at the War Memorial Building in Shepherdstown on Friday evening.
A total of 51 participants offered art ranging from paint on canvas to collage to sculpture. Many of the displays used recycled materials, in keeping with the focus on the environment and how best to protect it.
The theme of this year’s show was “Our World, Our Thriving Future: The Environment and Global Poverty.” The show was held Friday only and welcomed members of the community to see what the girls worked on for several weeks, or even months, in preparation to share at the show.
Angelina Gray, leader of Troop 15099, which meets at Trinity Episcopal Church in Shepherdstown, shared that the troop worked for about a month on the projects.
“There were about five steps for understanding — from the theme to a badge,” Gray said, adding that the projects were also tied to other art badges the Scouts could earn.
Natalie M., a Scout in Gray’s troop, proudly showed her tree art as she explained that she has helped with tree plantings in her troop. Gray confirmed that the troop has planted three trees to date at the church where it meets.
Sophie, another member of Troop 15099, pointed out that the blue in her painting represented the sky and the water, while the people holding hands circled the earth.
“The flowers represent nature,” she shared.
Sofia B., a 7-year-old member of Troop 15043, which meets in Charles Town, explained that she and her mom decided that hearts showed a happy, happy Earth. She said that she focused on reduce, reuse and recycle with her piece, which also included a rainbow, as she loves rainbows.
Bella G., age 8, showed melting glaciers in her painting. She explained that she repurposed a previous painting to highlight recycling in her project. Also shown was a penguin, who is trying to reach the high mountains but is having a difficult time with the melting.
Gray, who helped organize the show for the second year, was very pleased that 51 girls participated. While the show ran for two days last year, she explained that the organizers cut it to one this year, because most attendees arrived on the first day.
She also shared that the girls who participate become very excited about seeing their artwork displayed in a professional manner. She went on to compliment the Girl Scouts program as one that helps develop friendships and make the girls aware of current issues, as well as provide a learning experience in many areas, even outdoor living.
“We mainly focus on being outside in our troop,” Gray said.
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