Rivers of pictures and rivers of words

RFIM, “River, Imagination, Frescoes, Memory”, is an innovative educational program developed by SOS Loire Vivante. It combines environmental education with artistic expression, targeting children from kindergarten to middle school across an entire river basin (approximately 50 to 80 classes per year, representing 1,200 students). Each annual edition explores a unique theme related to the river (e.g., the river in all its forms, the superheroes of water…), and provides participating classes with an art kit (a large canvas, paints) and an educational guide on the basics of rivers. Students discover their “hydro-ecological address,” learn about their river environment through their senses and creative expression, and create collaborative artworks (poetry or visual art). They also exchange ideas with other classes located upstream or downstream, thus creating a network for learning and artistic collaboration. The murals are exhibited in both a physical and a virtual exhibition, forming an artistic map of the river basin. A mixed jury (composed of professionals and children) selects the winners, who receive a visit from a storyteller. All participants receive a reproduction of their artwork. This project promotes an interdisciplinary approach, fosters environmental awareness, and encourages eco-citizenship from an early age.