The French classes took a class field trip to the Portland Art Museum. This was a much-anticipated trip in which students had been preparing for a couple of weeks. This trip took place during Life class. Students patiently waited for the late bus, getting into their groups.

Due to construction, a large portion of the museum was off-limits; however, this further highlighted the innovative nature of the sections showcased: “African Fashion” and “Black Artists of Oregon.” 

Mikayla Avery, a French IV senior explained that she had some background knowledge of what to expect at the museum due to the research that had been done within her French class. She was mostly interested in the fashion exhibit because it seemed to be the focus of their trip. 

The African Fashion Exhibit is a contemporary with over 50 outfits with around 40 designers that portray the fashion of over 21 countries. 

The French students had to use a clipboard to analyze and comment on what they observed at the Portland Art Museum. Mikayla stated that she wrote that her favorite part of the exhibit was the section with mannequins dressed in African fashion designs. Mikayla says, “The setup was so interesting and the designs were beautiful.” 

Another French four Senior, Michele Bashoury has very similar opinions. Going into the field trip, she expected to see a lot of traditional clothing and meaningful art pieces.

Bashoury mentioned that one artwork that stood out to her was “Dinh Q. Le.” She described it as a framed art piece weaving together two different materials. She quotes Jeannie Kenmotsu, saying, “Le symbolically joins the Buddhist figures and prisoner, but blurs the images of both-neither can be seen clearly, but are held forever in a state of suspended dissolution.” 

Overall, the French field trip to the Portland Art Museum hosted by Mrs. Moeling was a very interactive experience for the students. Students could analyze and inspect many beautiful art pieces, which helped them widen their perspective on their concept of art.