Artists at RLCC

Students at Red Lake County Central Schools had artistic opportunities in March.  The week of March 10 – 14, Heidi Jeub, visual artist painted with the art students in grades 7, 8, 9 and 12.  Circus artist, Benjamin Domask-Ruh shared his talents in circus arts with the Red Lake County Central Elementary students in grades 4 - 6.

Benjamin Domask-Ruh is a performing artist who combines the skill and technique of juggling with the theory and philosophy of clown to create a unique blend of circus and theatre.  His residencies are exciting and full of energy!  When asked, the students and staff were so excited to have Benjamin in their classrooms.  In Benjamin’s words, “We all have the ability to learn. I focus on each individual student’s strengths while identifying their areas of growth potential. I then utilize proper teaching methods acquired through studies in Circus, Theatre, Sports, Dance, and Psychology to best suit a student’s learning style. Sometimes all it takes is that little moment of understanding to create a big moment of growth.”

Students in grades 4, 5 and 6 enjoyed and learned from the residency.  They commented, ”He is very cool, he taught me to juggle like a pro.”  “I like that we did warm up exercises.”  “He was kind and funny.”  Benjamin Domask-Ruh taught circus arts to the students and in the process, also taught kindness, patience and persistence.  Teachers commented, “He made each student feel like they were the best.” “He knew how to relate to students in a meaningful way and get them excited about learning.”

Heidi Jeub is a teaching artist with over two decades of experience, specializing in bookbinding, visual journaling, and abstract painting. Since 2003, she has shared her passion for art with students of all ages, drawing on her own experience as an “alternative learner” to create engaging, interdisciplinary lessons that connect art to subjects like literature, science, math, and technology.

 She has designed innovative projects that blend art with manufacturing, science, and math, helping students develop collaboration skills and 21st-century problem-solving abilities. Heidi’s work has been featured on HGTV, and she currently runs the Tiny School of Art & Design, a traveling studio program that brings hands-on, interdisciplinary art workshops to communities across the country. 

Heidi’s work with the art students at RLCC challenged them to create in a new way.  Students embraced the challenge.  The cooperating teacher, Kelsey Bingham was very pleased with the results of the residency.   She stated, “Heidi had a great layout for the week’s activities.  She allowed students to explore while giving guidelines and information.”

The residency was arranged with COMPAS.  This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

Note:  Attachments are artist photos and residency photos.  They may come in more than one email.