Most students in the Lakeview school district has at least taken Art 1, or the Everyday Art senior class. Some of the current students were given the opportunity to leave school for the day and witness other artists’ works on their field trip to the Butler Art Museum. 

On January 7th, 2025, Lakeview art teacher Jeff Piper took about 45 students on a field trip to the Butler Art Museum in Youngstown, Ohio. Students were taken on tour around the Butler, seeing priceless artworks that the Butler contains, looking at the intricate detailed artworks that students could not take their eyes off of. Students also had the opportunity to interact with the interactive artworks in the Butler, mesmerized by all the creativity put into the efforts for the illusion of the human eye.

 Upon arrival, the students were greeted by the museum staff, who provided a brief history of the Butler Institute, which was opened in 1919, dedicated to housing artworks that were specifically created by American artists, being the first museum holding All-American art. The Butler Museum holds hundreds of artworks from the 1800s all the way to modern-day art, its collection boasts works from the Colonial period through contemporary times, offering a comprehensive overview of American artistic achievements. Being the host of certain art competitions where local artists have the opportunity to turn in their art for judging. 

One of our own Bulldogs, Piper, has one of his own artworks currently placed in the museum because of the success in a regional art competition. Piper created a surreal artwork containing his usual circles and spheres, adding surreal effects that viewers could not take their eyes off. His piece, titled Big Dreams, was selected for display–a testament to his artistic skill and dedication. 

“I try to stay busy as an artist as well as an art educator. I love being creative both in my own studio and the classroom,” said Piper.

As the students walked through the museum, they were thrilled to discover their teacher’s artwork featured, among other impressive pieces. Seeing Piper’s art in a professional setting provided a profound sense of pride and inspiration. It was a moment of realization that art isn’t just created in a classroom; it can resonate and find a place in esteemed institutions.  

The trip to the Butler Art Museum was more than just a field trip; it was an extension of the classroom, providing hands-on learning and real-world experiences, Piper’s involvement in the museum’s competition served as a powerful example of how art education can transcend the boundaries of school and integrate into the wider community. 

Piper’s initiative to take his students to another Butler exemplifies the transformative power of art education. By witnessing their teacher’s success and engaging with a broad spectrum of artists’ works, students were motivated to explore their own creative potential. The trip not only enriched their understanding of art but also reinforced the idea that with passion and dedication, they too could make their mark in the art world. 

If you see Mr.Piper, give him a congratulations!