Andre Rivoallon’s artwork draws local response
Gilroy – The large smiling sun Andre Rivoallon added to his weather artwork caught the eye of a local man.
After Andre’s unique picture ran in the Weather Watch section on Page A2 of the Dispatch, the 7-year-old Luigi Aprea Elementary School student received a letter in the mail along with a $10 check. In his letter, the man wrote that he’s usually impressed by the artwork displayed adjacent to the daily forecast, but that he was particularly struck by Andre’s rendition.
The writer said he thinks Andre has talent and encouraged him to buy art materials with the cash. Andre, a vivacious first-grader with a sprinkling of freckles, said that’s exactly what he plans to do with the gift.
“I’m gonna buy some paints,” he said.
Or maybe some clay, he added, explaining that he could make a movie with the material. When asked about his picture, the talkative kid said he colored a sun that’s about to be covered by a cloud and an Indian holding a bow, shooting arrows at birds up above.
Andre also said it was exciting to receive the gift.
“I was very thankful,” he said.
The elementary student, who loves to talk about video games, said he plans to send the man a gift, maybe a picture and a thank you letter.
“Or some candy,” he said. “I’ll ask him what’s his favorite candy.”
So does he want to be an artist when he grows up?
“I want to be an inventor and a scientist, go figure,” Andre said with a smile.
The Dispatch’s weather art runs on A2 every day. Teachers or individuals submit the children’s pictures for publication.
