One of the things I love about collaborative work is watching students connect as they create and after the creation is made. A hand made by a 6th grade students seemed to release the creative restrictions for a 4th grade student who's designed hand inspired similar creations from students in not just one grade level but all. This is why art is important; it provides people with a way to freely express themselves and in this way connect and inspire with others even if they never end up knowing them in person.
Art, just like it's DC students, creates a beautiful impact.