Students connect through video conference

Through a Polycom video conference system and an internet connection, an artist in Ireland displayed works of art in the Rapid City, South Dakota North Middle School library and discussed with 6th graders the difference between abstract and realistic sculpture.  D.J. Garrity, Mount Rushmore's artist-in-residence currently working in Ireland, showed the students a variety of bronze and marble portraits and shared the history of Irish art.  "I like the freedom of the abstract art," said one student.  "But realistic sculpture shows the people more the way you want to show them," said another. D.J. will be returning to Mount Rushmore National Memorial for the summer of 2006 as artist-in-residence and will be expanding his sculpture workshops to include new students and teachers.  Rushmore ranger Nichole Andler helped host the video conference from the National University of Ireland at Galway at the beginning of her tour of the country. Education Specialist Rhonda Schier provided a preview lesson for the students and coordinated the conference through the Dakota Digital Network.  Several students and adults are eager to register for the summer workshops as a result of the conference.