This is my first ever blog! 
Our class is busy planning and preparing for our art trip to Los Angeles, CA.  This is a trip that Jeffco Open School has lead five times over the last 12 years.  We spend a week exploring the art and cultural opportunities around the city.  We visit museums, galleries, see performances and concerts, eat in authentic restaurants and take drumming classes.  A highlight of the trip has been our ongoing friendship with ManOne, the LA based graffiti artist and owner of the Crewest gallery.  Over the years He has given us tours around the city to see the best underground graffiti spots and has helped us to understand the history and contemporary context of public mural art in California. 
Personally, I am excited for for the contemporary origami exhibit at the Japanese American National Museum. www.janm.org In preparation the class watched and discussed the documentary "Between the Folds" which explores the far reaching practical and theoretical impact of origami (airbag design!) and the artistic heights of this living art form.  You have to see it to believe it.