High school art, creative writing, and AP English literature students from Lake Oconee Academy (LOA) attended an exclusive performance by music and dance troupe Vulture Sister Song on Feb. 24 at the Steffen Thomas Museum of Art (STMA) in rural Buckhead.
The opportunity was made possible by Karen and Peter Wibell, who covered their cost to attend.
Vulture Sister Song is a multidisciplinary performance that blends dance, songs, and storytelling by five artists: Ellen Smith Ahern (dance, music, design), Jacob Elias (lanterns, sculptures, music), Josina Guess (text), Kate Elias (dance, design), and Pete Dybdahl (music, text).
Known nationwide, Vulture Sister Song made its Georgia debut at STMA, where their performance combined vocal and instrumental music, creative dance, and illuminated lantern sculptures to tell the story of the vulture — a misunderstood, yet essential bird species.
Another featured narrative, “The Baker’s Daughter,” by Dybdahl, intertwined with the vulture’s tale to help create a layered and thought-provoking experience for attendees. Students were invited to participate by mimicking the flapping of wings or the “ooing” call of the bird.
Following the performance, LOA students engaged in a discussion with the artists, reflecting on their interpretations.
“The best part about it being interpretive is that the dance was up to me and my creative response,” AP art student Autumn Hinspeter said.
Ayesha Sultan, an LOA sculpture student, said she appreciated the open-ended nature of the performance.
“The coolest part was how each of us could respond and interpret the show in our own way,” she said. “I loved the dance and saw it as a representation of lifting each other up while also taking care of ourselves.”
With several artistic styles on display, students walked away with unique perspectives.
“The interpretive dance was comforting, and I liked how the music made unexpected sounds that still fit the story. I really like vultures and loved the whole experience,” Pre-AP and sculpture student Leighann Padgett said.
Before heading to lunch at Chick-fil-A, students explored STMA, admiring the prolific works of the late artist and poet.
STMA is one of only 14 single-artist museums in the United States. It celebrates art through various educational programs for students, adults, and seniors, and is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Visit steffenthomas.org for more information.