Two Eagle displays student talent in annual Art Slam

By Alyssa Kelly

Two Eagle River School superintendent Clarice King was a surprise guest reader who discussed the dangers of teen drinking on reservations. (Alyssa Kelly photo)

PABLO - From poems that touched the truest moments of life to the proud debut performance of the school's drum group, talent was on full display last week during Two Eagle River School's Sixth Annual Art Slam. "We host this every year because it really boosts the students' confidence and they can see how great they truly are," says English Instructor Rebeccah Knudsen-Dulbey.

Throughout the poetry portion of the event, students touched on personal topics, which were read before a large audience of peers, staff, and family members; in particular, a poem that reflected a young lady's struggle to see past her mother's addictions and trouble with the law told the struggle to find a "warrior." Other poems included in the contest reflected love for life, pride in being Native American, and succeeding in life, which was a poem turned song written by Kim Patten.

However, the most surprising reading came from the school's superintendent Clarice King, which was entitled "On Rez Streets." The poem was written by a Northern Cheyenne doctor and reflected the young partying element from a parent's point of view.

"Summer's coming and I hope the poem will make students think about themselves and their families before they decide to go out and party. What seems like a good night for them could take a toll on their whole community," says King.

Students displayed traditional art that included beadwork and baskets, photography from their weekly classes with instructor David Spear, and drawings or paintings. The most anticipated display of talent came from the debut performance for the school's drum group Two Eagle River School. "You could tell they really practiced it was tight. I'm voting for the drum group because they're all my bros," says student Jon Emery Steele.

Although students could win up to $35 in first place prizes, some say they gain more. "I've really seen the students' self-esteem grow from sharing their feelings in front of a large group like this. I was very happy that there were no disciplinary problems during the performances and everyone was really respectful. We have great talent," says King.

King invites families and members of the community to join Two Eagle in future school activities. For more information call 675-0292.