Handcrafted Holiday Cards

As a final class project for Professor Alison Aune’s “Art in Elementary Education” class, students created cards to distribute to seniors who reside at the Benedictine Living Community in Duluth.

“This semester, since we could not go out to teach art in the schools due to COVID-19, we sent art out!” Aune says. The handmade prints were inspired by Scandinavian folk traditions and designs. Sixty-five cards with holiday notes of joy and support were distributed to elders this week.

Aune praised Bethany Bogenholm for helping to organize her classmates in this meaningful outreach activity. The junior and Integrated Elementary and Special Education major works as a culinary aide at the Benedictine Living Community.

“The elderly are some of the most affected by COVID of any of us. They aren't allowed to see their families, they have to stay for the most part in their rooms, and they are scared of catching COVID,” Bogenholm says. “My heart goes out to them. So any cheer we can send their way will be very appreciated. It's essential to give back to the community and spread cheer because together, we can get through anything.”

The card project was inspired by the Pepperkakebyen Gingerbread Village project. The window displays and walking tour, created by Aune’s students, continues through the month at downtown Duluth businesses. 

About the Integrated Elementary & Special Education major.

About the Art Education BFA.