Westchester Day School had the honor of welcoming world-renowned Israeli artist, illustrator and educator Hanoch Piven for an unforgettable day of creativity and inspiration. Known for his imaginative portraits crafted from found objects, Piven captivated students in grades three through eight with his unique approach to art—one that embraces play, curiosity and self-expression.

During his visit, Piven encouraged students to think beyond traditional materials, emphasizing that “art is not about perfection but about exploring and reinventing.” He reminded them that creativity has no limits, and that failure is often an opportunity for growth. “Art is a game, and games prepare us for life,” he shared, inspiring students to embrace the artistic process with confidence and joy.

A highlight of the day was a hands-on workshop for fifth graders, where students used buttons, bottle caps, LEGOs and other everyday objects to craft their own masterpieces under Piven’s guidance. Their excitement and creativity filled the room, proving that art has the power to transform the ordinary into something extraordinary.

Students and faculty thank the WDS PTA for making this experience possible and for bringing Piven’s inspiring vision to life at WDS. His visit was more than just an art lesson—it was a celebration of imagination, individuality and the endless possibilities of creativity.