One Monday a month, all of the kindergarten, first and second grade students as well as their teachers look forward to a very special occasion. Mrs. Pollard and Mrs. Seagal’s kindergarteners, Ms. Searcy and Mrs. O’Bryant’s first graders and Mrs. Felts and Mrs. McGuire’s second graders approach the day with great anticipation.
What is the cause of all this excitement? It’s the “Young at Art” classes sponsored by volunteers from the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum!
Now in its second year, “Young at Art” provides age-appropriate art classes to the lower grade students for whom art is not a regular part of the curriculum. These classes offer the students time for creative construction in the art room while encouraging courtesy, respect and self discipline. Gina Harwood and Kelly Henson spearhead the efforts for BRAHM, with volunteer assistance from other parents as needed.
In January, the designated activity was forming imaginary animals from a clay product. These blocks of clay first had to be manipulated by the students to make them pliable, then one’s imagination allowed them to be shaped any way one wished. As might be predicted, many of the boys made monsters and snakes while the girls created snails, bears and ladybugs. After being baked in the oven at home, each student had a keepsake Sculpy!
The artistic exploration continued in February with the preparation of tissue paper bears. The students were given a sticky template and pieces of torn colored tissue paper, with suggestions on how to randomly apply the paper to the bear. Each kit also included a red paper heart upon which the child could create a personal valentine message. The fine motor coordination needed for this activity could help solidify the link between art skills and other classroom duties.
“Students learn important self expression through experimentation with different art techniques and media, “stated Patrick Sukow, principal of Blowing Rock Elementary School. “We appreciate the efforts of BRAHM with our younger pupils and look forward to many years of collaborative enrichment though the Museum’s programming.”
If you would like more information about these classes or would like to volunteer to help during your child’s session, call Kelly Henson at BRAHM, 295-9099.