This summer camp season, our theme was Art Through the Decades. During our 1970s inspired camp, we learned about the land art movement and looked at iconic works by Robert Smithson, Nancy Holt, and the more recent (and smaller scale) works of Andy Goldsworthy. We took these artists' lead, and created ephemeral, nature-based works of our own. Instead of glueing anything down, the students documented their work with photographs and took the printed images home as artifacts of their experience. It was one of the most pleasurable lessons to teach (no mess!) and the kids relished the connection to nature and the freedom of process over product. This project could be modified for any age group, pre-K through 12th grade.
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Spring Art Academy
Art Academy is an after-school class designed for students who wish to develop and grow their artistic aptitude. Throughout each six week session, students learn and practice foundational skills in the visual arts and are exposed to a variety of mediums in both the 2D and 3D arts. Art Academy students also develop strong visual literacy and critical thinking skills through looking at and discussing their own artwork and the artwork of others. For the 6-10 year old cohort, each session yields a "final" work or project that is shared and discussed. For the 11-14 year old students, the focus shifts to skills-based instruction with an emphasis on drawing, painting, design, and composition.
Gelli Plate Printing + Collage Inspired by Monet's House and Garden in Giverny, France
This spring in Art Academy for the 6-10 year olds, we explored artwork and artists that take their inspiration from botany and horticulture. Our students had the opportunity to learn directly from Payne County Master Gardener volunteers and participate in hands-on horticulture activities with fun, follow-up art projects, one of which was this gorgeous gelli plate printed collage inspired by one of the most famous artist-gardeners of all time, Claude Monet. This lesson could be adapted for any age group, K-12.
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Pull A Print - Smart Plate Lithography
Come check out the process of lithographic printing using Smart Plates, an easier and accessible entry into the old practice of lithographic printing. During this drop in workshop, you will get to see a demonstration of the lithography process. With help and guidance from the instructor, you will also use a pre-made plate to pull your own print on the litho press! You will be able to take your print home after class.
Valentine's Day Card Embroidery
Come learn how to embroider onto cardstock! We will go through the steps of putting our pattern onto the paper, embroidering our image, and then finishing the back of the piece to protect the design.
Crafting Conversation Clay Hearts
Are you searching for a delightful Valentine's Day activity for that special someone? Look no further! Join us for our upcoming event, where you can create your very own conversation clay hearts. Each participant will receive a 9x9 slab of clay to create a variety of heart shapes. We'll provide heart cutters and letters so you can compose personalized messages. After decorating your hearts with underglaze, they will be kiln-fired to resemble classic candy conversation hearts. Pick up your finished hearts by February 8th.
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