By Stephanie Kistner, Education & Programs Associate
Did you know that when Claude Monet first started painting in the Impressionist style, people thought he was a rebel?
If you attended one of our Family Art Nights this year, you did!
Launched in 2010, Family Art Nights are free, hands-on events hosted by P.S. ARTS at all of our partner schools throughout Los Angeles County. This year, more than 2,000 people came out to learn, create, and show their support for the arts in education! Family Art Nights are held at our partner schools and are facilitated by P.S. ARTS Teaching Artists. We think the best way for parents (and the whole family!) to learn about arts education and its benefits is to participate in art-making together. Sometimes we dance together at Family Art Nights; sometimes we make music together; most of the time, we learn about visual artists and get our hands dirty.
Each year we introduce families to the works of famous artists, the materials used, and the techniques used in their certain style. In years past, we’ve created clay sculptures in the style of Francois Pompon, quilts inspired by the work of Faith Ringgold, and collages based on the work of Romare Bearden. This year, our theme was “The Wide World of Watercolor.” Students and family members got their paintbrushes (and Q-tips!) wet and created masterpieces in the style of George Pierre Seurat and Claude Monet.
We always have such a good time at Family Art Nights making artwork with students, parents, teachers, and principals. To see more of the fun, check out this great video made by Amy Knutson, our Education & Programs Assistant (and Family Art Night regular!).
Family Art Nights 2012-2013 School Year from P.S. ARTS on Vimeo.
To volunteer at an upcoming P.S. ARTS Family Art Night please sign up online or send us an email at info@psarts.org.
We hope to see you at our Family Art Nights next school year!
