Cafe Zoe, a popular hub for caffeine- and community-loving locals, has added another dimension to its offerings of international flavors: Art by students of the nearby German-American International School (GAIS).

The artwork by students from kindergarten through eighth grade will be on exhibit through March 31 at the cafe, 1929 Menalto Ave. The private school and the cafe are neighbors in the Willows area of Menlo Park.

"The children's artwork is such a joy visually, and we look forward to the energy and excitement it brings to the cafe community," Cafe Zoe owner Kathleen Daly said in an announcement from GAIS.

The exhibit provides more than visual joy to the cafe community, however. "Students truly see themselves as artists when they see their artwork displayed in a public place," according to Maike Silver, the GAIS staff member who coordinates the exhibit. "They develop self-esteem and confidence in their own abilities to create art and in forming partnerships with the community."

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— Renee Batti

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