La Grande Lessive at École Bilingue de Berkeley: Celebrating “Je” and “Nous”

On March 19, families arriving on campus were welcomed by a vibrant display of artwork fluttering on clotheslines—a joyful installation created as part of La Grande Lessive, a worldwide, temporary art event. Translated as “The Big Laundry,” this initiative brings together participants from around the globe who hang their creations outdoors on the same day, transforming everyday spaces (schools, libraries, community centers, and more) into shared galleries.

At École Bilingue de Berkeley, the Maternelle students (TPS through K) enthusiastically joined this global artistic movement. This year’s theme, “Le Jeu du Je-Nous” (“The Play of Me–Us”), offered a meaningful opportunity to explore identity and community—an essential concept in both early childhood development and bilingual education.

The TPS class, for example, interpreted the theme as a celebration of each child as a unique individual (je) who is also part of a colorful, interconnected group (nous). The resulting project was deeply collaborative. Children used paint markers to freely express themselves on large white sheets. Teachers then transformed these creations by cutting them into circles and school-inspired shapes, symbolizing members of our community. The children assembled their pieces, and teachers added simple stick-figure details, bringing each “person” to life.

What makes La Grande Lessive particularly powerful is its accessibility and purpose. Using simple materials and a shared format, it emphasizes creativity rather than technical skill. Every child—regardless of age or language proficiency—can participate fully. Even our youngest, 2-year-old students contributed, demonstrating that artistic expression is truly universal.

For a bilingual school, this experience reinforces an important message: communication is not limited to words. Art becomes another language through which children express ideas, emotions, and their sense of belonging. 

For parents, this installation offers more than a visual celebration—it is a window into your child’s thinking, creativity, and growth. Projects like La Grande Lessive nurture confidence, collaboration, and identity, all while strengthening the sense of community that defines EB.