Painting up spooky fall fun

A night of spooky fall fun was had by all who attended a special art event at Coal City Elementary School.

A black light paint night was organized for pre-kindergarten to fifth grade students and their families, and event hosted by art teachers Julie Brncich and Becky Bajt.

There were 576 people in attendance at the Oct. 27 event that featured glow in the dark artwork created by students.

"We are so proud to live in a community supportive of making art. It was wonderful to see families painting together and having so much fun," Brncich said.

On display were jack-o-lanterns created by first graders, ghosts made by kindergarten students at Coal City’s Early Childhood Center and a series of monsters crafted by second and third graders at Coal City Elementary School.

Those attending the event were presented with glow bracelets and necklaces as they entered the school’s lunchroom that was filled with black lights.

Using a special fluorescent tempera paint, families were directed to paint a sneaky cat or spooky tree and an idea all their own.

“The children and their families were amazed by the glowing paint and their bright creations. Everyone had so much fun painting together,” Brncich said.

There was a $10 per canvas fee with proceeds benefiting the district’s K-5 art programs.

“We had lots of amazing parent and teacher volunteers who made this event possible. And, we look forward to hosting this event again in the future,” Brncich said.