GLOVERSVILLE — Third-graders in Lisa Beerle’s art classes at Boulevard Elementary will soon have their artwork displayed at Nathan Littauer Nursing Home.
The students recently learned about 20th century American painter Georgia O’Keeffe, who was best known for her bold floral canvases. Students then created their own watercolor flower paintings, which they donated to the nursing home to be displayed there. The Boulevard Elementary Parent Teacher Association provided the funds to buy frames for each of the 54 pieces of student art.
Beerle said she thought a hospital-type environment would be a good match for the bright pieces. “I like to have students do something connected to the community, so their art has a life outside the school building,” Beerle said.
Rachel Johnson, the director of recreational therapy at Nathan Littauer Nursing Home, said the art will be hung in the 52 patient rooms. “I thought it was very creative,” she said. “Residents love attention from kids, and this gives them something to enjoy that’s just for them.”
Third-grader Payton Dow was thrilled their work would be displayed where people would appreciate it. “I think the paintings will be adored because we’ve done hard work on these,” she said. “I think the patients will feel really happy we put all this hard work into them.”

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Boulevard Elementary students, from left, Kendra Mitchell, Caelan Porter, Mahmoud Sbahi and Payton Dow were among the third-graders who created watercolor paintings that will be displayed at the Nathan Littauer Nursing Home.