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A unique art project is underway at Ramapo, one that reaches out to far away places, with kindness and care. Students are learning portrait drawing techniques at the same time as they contribute their talents to a charity known as The Memory Project (TMP). 

TMP states its mission as “Creating a Kinder World Through Art”. It got its start, and its name from an idea to gift children in orphanages with a handmade, heartfelt portrait. Since its inception in 2004, TMP has evolved to offer support to school children in impoverished areas globally.

Students are matched with a specific child in the chosen school. This time around, the children are from Cambodia. 

The artist’s assignment? Supplied with a cropped headshot, first name, age, favorite color, and three positive words they'd use to describe themselves, create a portrait with as much detail and accuracy as possible to match each child’s individual face. Drawing II art students used colored pencils and a grid technique (below) while the Honors Studio art students (top and final photo) created a contour drawing, divided their portrait into a 4-part grid, and worked with four  watercolor techniques. 

When the piece is completed, the artist signs the back, writes an uplifting message, and includes a photo of themselves. There’s also the additional tracing of their handprint to symbolize touching hands.

Once all the portraits are finished the artwork is sent to the students in Cambodia where organizers will record the portrait distribution. 

We are awaiting receipt of that video. When we get it, we’ll happily share it with you!