Medieval times come alive for art students

The art room at St. Thomas More School in Green Bay is easy to find. Simply take the steps to the basement and pass through the castle doors.

The castle décor is part of a medieval theme incorporated by art teacher Pam Stoll, and elaborated with the help of professional artist Ken Koeppel.

"The theme is carried out throughout the year," said Stoll, who also teaches at Our Lady of Lourdes School, De Pere. "Everything we do is related to medieval times."

Students have created works of art ranging from medieval banners to self-portraits featuring the students in medieval dress.

"Art from medieval times was adopted from Christianity," said Stoll. "From a learning standpoint the artwork provides a good lesson in history."

Koeppel, an Antigo native and St. Norbert College graduate who now lives in Covington, Kentucky, joined each class in creating medieval hex designs.

The hex designs are paintings on a two-by-two foot surface featuring a patterned design with medieval elements such as leaves, grapes or stars, for example, produced by stamping or sponging. Koeppel also demonstrated how to make floor cloths, a form of artwork designed to be displayed on the floor.

The chance to return home and work with the students is rewarding, said Koeppel, who visited classes at both St. Thomas More and Our Lady of Lourdes schools. Surprisingly, art was not his area of study in college. Koeppel worked in human services and the insurance business before turning to art full-time.

"My grandmother was very influential in my interest in art and my mother is an artist, so it has always been a part of me," said Koeppel, who was a college roommate of Stoll's husband. "I live in a historic 160-year-old home, so even when I wasn't working as an artist I was using art in some form to restore and decorate the house. I have always enjoyed experimenting with art and trying new things."

"We are very fortunate that Ken was able share his talents with us," said Stoll. "We really didn't plan it far in advance but it worked out well. He is wonderful with the kids."

The medieval theme is being carried out at special events at St. Thomas More. A Medieval Feast including food, costumes and performances will be celebrated on March 29. The Medieval Festival Society for Creative Anachronisms, an educational group will 'Hold Court' for the students on March 30, demonstrating life in medieval times. The students' artwork will be on display at both events.