Fine Arts Students Connect Globally through the Memory Project

From Traditions Winter 2023-24 issue
January 17, 2025

Cretin-Derham Hall student–artists fostered international connections through their art. This year, 11 CDH student–artists created original portraits for the impactful “Memory Project,” a non-profit organization connecting youth through creativity. This initiative invites art teachers and their students to create portraits for youth worldwide facing significant challenges, including neglect, abuse, loss of parents, and extreme poverty.

The Memory Project, initiated in 2004 by Ben Schumaker during his time at the University of Wisconsin, aims to connect global youth through art, fostering cultural understanding and international kindness. Reflecting on the project’s evolution, Schumaker expresses gratitude for the dedication of art teachers and students who contribute to these collaborative efforts. Sue Cranston, Art Teacher at CDH, has been an integral part of this transformative project for seven years. She shares her enthusiasm, saying, “Every year that I’ve been here, we have given our students the chance to do this. It’s a wonderful project!”

Cranston’s connection with The Memory Project dates back to 2017, when she received an email from Ben Schumaker, prompting her immediate commitment to the mission of creating a kinder world through art. Recalling the early years of CDH’s involvement, Cranston highlights the growth in student participation, emphasizing the project’s special significance.

“This very special project means so much to me because I DO believe that art DOES connect people together — regardless of geography, age, or any other characteristic,” says Ms. Cranston. Her passion for teaching drawing and painting, coupled with a deep appreciation for portraits of children, aligns seamlessly with The Memory Project’s objectives.

Cranston further emphasizes the unique bond formed between CDH students and the children in the portraits. “They get to know the special young child in a unique way because they will study the photograph closely and really think about how to hink about how to get the portrait ‘just right,’” she shares.

In addition to fostering artistic skill development, The Memory Project serves as a powerful tool for cultivating empathy and understanding among CDH students. As Cranston proudly notes, “I can’t say enough good things about The Memory Project and how proud I am of my students! They put their heart into these drawings & paintings and to top it off… They are proud of themselves too!”

For those interested in witnessing the emotional impact of The Memory Project, go to memoryproject.org which features the latest videos capturing the heartwarming moments when students receive these meaningful portraits. As CDH continues to participate, the Fine Arts department remains dedicated to instilling kindness, global awareness, and artistic excellence through this inspiring initiative.