The title of this post is a Russian saying, which translates as "The wolf from Tambov is your comrade." From what I understand, it's supposed to be ironic --- but people in Tambov have been wonderful so far! :)
We are continuing come research which we started in Samara, looking at different models of collaboration between youth, schools, NGOs, and service organizations.We are mapping out three main models so that we can analyze them based on criteria such as project sustainability, application in an American context, and possible partnerships with U.S. organizations. We love charts!
Otherwise our first day in Tambov was a bonding day at our host organization, the Center for Youth Initiatives. Our colleagues here often lead master-classes on decoupage, so they invited us to create our own little projects --- they turned out quite nice, I think.
We talked out our whole schedule for the week and the next day met with a fabulous artist Nikolai Nikolaevich at his studio inside a local school. The school accomodates regular students as well as students with hearing impairments. Nikolai has been teaching life skills through art since the early 90s, and his philosophy on the benefit of art is quite inspirational.
We met with 4th-grade students and asked the what they like to draw most. The girl on the left said "Girls, with pretty outfits, from cartoons and things"; the second girl answered: "Dogs. My dogs, and me!"
In more general news, we are finally starting to feel productive with our project, things are falling into place, and this weekend is Maslenitsa! It's sort of like Mardi Gras, marking the beginning of the lenten season when orthodox believers start their 40-day fast until easter. It is sometimes referred to in English as "Pancake Week," so you can guess what I'll be eating on Sunday ;)
I'll keep you posted!
Sarah
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