Art Start Explorers with Margaret Freedman

Every second Saturday, young artists ages 5-12 can meet with teaching artist Margaret Freedman in a Zoom studio class. In this combined Art Start and Art Explorers class, Margaret will lead students in an imaginative storytime and close looking lesson, followed by an inspired art activity. Each month's supply lists will be posted in advance and comprise of basic art and household materials. Families who purchase the 3-month package will have access to a Google Classroom page where the teaching artist will post follow up activities and resources, as well as provide feedback to students.

Clouds, Earth, and Sky
Saturday, October 10

In this session, students will become observers of the world around them! Teaching artist Margaret Freedman will guide students to look closely at the form, texture, and color of the natural world. Then, students will learn some hidden techniques for recreating parts of nature in their own artwork.

Materials needed: 

• shaving cream
• paint or food coloring (about 3 of either)
• heavy paper (at least 3 pieces, 9 x 12 in. or smaller) 
• piece of small square cardboard
• kitchen or foil pan
• fork
• glue
• scissors
• markers or crayons
• q-tips

Imaginative Drawing
Saturday, November 14

In this virtual studio class, teaching artist Margaret Freedman will present the art element of line in a story and art lesson. In the likeness of Shantell Martin's simple black and white illustrations, students will draw different types of lines to form an imaginary picture. Their final drawing will be turned into a puzzle that they can piece back together with friends and family!

Materials needed:

• paper plates
• scissors
• marker or Sharpie, pencil

Shaker Symbols and Shapes
Saturday, December 12

Inspired by the special exhibition, Anything But Simple: Shaker Gift Drawings and the Women Who Made Them, this virtual Art Start Explorers will explore the symbolic meaning behind basic shapes and objects and how the Shakers incorporated such symbols in their art! In the accompanying art lesson, students will look closely at the tree symbol to make a tree representing their life!

Materials needed:

• piece of paper (preferably 9 x 12 in.)
• cupcake liners
• bottle caps (optional)
• scissors
• glue
• markers
• crayon