The 5th Grade Art Club from Edna Louise Spear Elementary School recently embarked on an enriching field trip to the Zuccaire Gallery at Stony Brook University, where students experienced the Landscape of Awe: MFA Thesis Exhibition 2026. The exhibition features the work of graduating Master of Fine Arts student Becca Osborn, whose immersive installation captivated students with its thoughtful exploration of nature and life cycles.

Osborn’s work creates an earthy, contemplative environment composed of hand-crafted ceramic elements, including rock formations, moss, and fallen branches. The exhibit invited students to reflect on the interconnectedness of the natural world while showcasing the expressive possibilities of ceramics.

A highlight of the visit was the opportunity for students to meet Becca Osborn in person. During this engaging interaction, Art Club members asked insightful questions about her artistic process, inspirations, and the meaning behind her work. Students were especially excited to explore a hands-on station where they could touch and experiment with ceramic slabs, deepening their understanding of the medium.

Following the gallery tour and artist discussion, the Zuccaire Gallery team led students in a creative ceramics activity, encouraging them to produce their own pieces inspired by the exhibition. The experience concluded with a collaborative mural project in which students contributed drawings reflecting their personal interpretations of the themes explored in Landscape of Awe.

This memorable visit provided students with a unique opportunity to connect directly with a working artist and gain firsthand insight into the creative and curatorial processes behind a professional exhibition.

Edna Louise Spear Elementary School extends its sincere gratitude to Becca Osborn for sharing her powerful artwork and engaging so thoughtfully with students. The school also thanks Karen Levitov, Director and Curator of the Zuccaire Gallery, for her continued support and for creating such a welcoming, dynamic, and inspiring experience for young artists.