Why Art?
WHY ART?
Creating art is about discovering yourself in a sea of individuals, becoming more of yourself and loving the journey. Art is not copying or simply following directions to make a project like everyone else. Each student's work will shine with their unique brilliance. There is power in that. Children build confidence in knowing themselves. They learn to trust their own ideas and knowings.
CONFIDENCE
Children gain a deeper sense of confidence as their creative ideas are acknowledged, encouraged and celebrated.
MOTOR SKILLS
Children develop motor skills that last a lifetime. These skills include cutting, holding a pencil, washing a brush, etc.
EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
Feelings are explored in ways that dive both into the language and non-verbal parts of the brain, helping children to gain emotional intelligence beyond their years.
INVENTIVENESS
When kids are encouraged to take risks in their art, this carries through in other parts of their lives. These children are innovators, thinkers and the type of people we need to keep society growing.
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Studies show a correlation between art and other achievements. Actively participating in art can mean improved math, writing and science abilities.
CREATIVITY
When children learn to think creatively at a young age, it will come naturally to them later in life. Of all the subject matters, art specifically lends itself to right-brain creative thinking.
CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING
Art invites children to explore the world beyond their own. They explore different cultures, artists, countries and points of view.
APPRECIATION
Art encourages a love of beauty, of skill, of form, of design and the richness of the world around them.
Process and Product Art
We encourage process art, art that is directed by the individual. We respect everyone's choices and celebrate their experience of discovery. In process art, the final product is always unique and the focus lies in the creation of the work, not the outcome. Will you or your child bring home something completed and hangable? Of course. We do like a finished product that is worthy of your pride. Art is a reflection of our inner selves and journey. Children (and adults) are natural artists if we allow them to create freely. So yes, process art! Yes, product art! How? We set up lessons and materials and teachable moments. Then, we set everyone free to create.
