Art in Action, a leading provider of K-12 visual art education programs, will honor Dick Sperisen, Coordinator Emeritus for Arts Education and School Design of the San Mateo County Office of Education, at the Art in Action annual luncheon, Atelier d'Artistes, to be held March 9, 2010, from 10 am to 2 pm at the Sharon Heights Golf & Country Club in Menlo Park.

“Dick Sperisen has made a real difference for students, educators, artists and parents in San Mateo County, and Art in Action is extremely pleased to honor him for his many contributions to art education in the county,” says Judy Sleeth, Executive Director of Art in Action.

In 1956 Dick Sperisen formed the San Mateo County Arts Education Committee. He revised the County Art Guide, created the San Mateo County High School Artist Hall of Fame, collaborated with Sam Trans to display student art on city busses, and much more. He has dedicated his career to creating great art programs for students.

Bruce Beasley, an internationally acclaimed sculptor, will be the special guest speaker and share his artistic experiences at the luncheon. Seven local California artists will demonstrate their techniques, share stories with guests, and offer finished masterpieces for purchase. Student artists from Henry Ford Elementary School in Redwood City, CA will demonstrate a painting project, and guests are encouraged to participate. A silent auction with many exciting products and services is included. The Atelier d’Artistes event is chaired by Karen Canty of Atherton.

For more information and reservation please visit http://www.artinaction.org/w/CommunityEvents or call 650-566-8339 ext. 200.

The Art in Action Program fosters creativity and develops problem solving and critical thinking skills. Art in Action inspires children to get excited about learning when they meet the great masters and create their own masterpieces. Art in Action was founded in 1982 and is a nonprofit organization. More information at www.artinaction.org.