The artistic results of two Trent University School of Education and Professional Learning arts enrichment programs will be showcased in a new exhibition at the Art Gallery of Peterborough that opens on Friday, November 2.

Entitled The Power to Believe, the new exhibit features photographs and writing created by students in grade eight at Prince of Wales Public School as part of an ongoing research project conducted by Trent professors Dr. Miriam Davidson and Dr. Mary Ladky. Professors Davidson and Ladky have been working with the group of grade eight students since April 2007, exploring the links between learning in the visual arts (specifically photographic practice) and supporting children's literacy.

The art gallery exhibit also showcases a selection of large scale murals designed and painted by three third grade classes at Prince of Wales. These murals were created with the support and guidance of 19 Trent University teacher candidates who chose to develop their art teaching skills through an Arts Enrichment Alternative Practicum/ Outreach Project led by Prof. Davidson and local artist John Climenhage and supported in part by an Academic Innovation Fund (AIF) grant.

“In addition to generating important knowledge as to best practices in education, we believe these outreach projects build important and lasting ties between Trent University faculty and students, and our local public schools and arts community members,” Prof. Davidson said. “We are very pleased that the Art Gallery of Peterborough has invited the group to share their work with the community.”

The Power to Believe exhibition opens at the Art Gallery of Peterborough on Friday, November 2 and runs until January 6, 2008.