As some of you know, my husband and I recently relocated to Greenville, SC. I am finding an explosion of art and cultural events as well as arts education in the schools–including creative writing! Looking for an opportunity to teach, an acquaintance recommended I first volunteer with the Explore the Arts camp that meets in the Fine Arts Center. Over the next few weeks I’ll share some photos and videos. These posts will be heavy on images and light on text as I try to share with you the excitement and energy of these young-artists-in-training. And hopefully, next year I’ll be sharing my experiences teaching fiction and journalism!
When I stopped in the Drama and Improv class led by Andrew Bryant, they immediately improvised a jazz pose for me.
These rising kindergarteners and first graders learned about famous artists in Painting and Collage taught by Carol Ann Good, and then dripped, splattered, and painted away!
Jan Woodward taught Ballet and Modern Dance to sixth through eighth graders. The dancers had just learned this routine.
Each instructor was passionate about communicating his or her love for art to their students. It was a pleasure to watch kindergartners through adults unabashedly throw themselves into the act of creation.
Kimilee
Bryant, showing her class her Phantom of the Opera scrapbook
The following pictures are from Katie Jones’ class of second and third graders enjoying Clay Exploration.
I tried to take a picture of Dr. Roy Fluhrer, Director of the Fine Arts Center, in front of one of the many sculptures which adorn the school. He declined. Over his shoulder as walked away he said, “It’s not about me. It’s about the kids.”
Carol enjoys teaching writing and has presented at many educators' and writing conferences. She has published widely in newspapers and magazines and along with Rebecca Wheeler, co-publishes Talking Story, a newsletter for educators and media specialists. When she isn’t reading, writing, or blogging, you’ll find her walking with friends, golfing, or gardening.
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26 thoughts on “The Art of Growing Artists – Part I”
Carol, it looks like a fantastic program. You can tell how much fun the kids and adults are having. I wish there would have been something like that when I was young.
Carol, it looks like a fantastic program. You can tell how much fun the kids and adults are having. I wish there would have been something like that when I was young.
Super, Carol. I bet that was fun.
It was, Sheri!
Great way to share your new involvement with the arts in Greenville!
Loved this post. Playing is definitely part of growing an artist.
Thanks Linda & Vijaya. I loved watching the kids!
What an exciting, well-rounded cultural community! So fantastic that you're immersing yourself in art. Looking forward to meeting you soon. . . :-)
Thanks, Clara. I'm loving my new hometown and look forward to meeting you too!
It sounds like a wonderful time at an incredible program. Many thanks for volunteering!
You know the joy of volunteering, Jo! Combine that with a great arts camp and you have a winning combination!!
Wonderful programs. Thanks for telling me about it.
You're welcome, Rosi. Wouldn't you like to see your grandkids in programs like this? Perhaps you have something similar in Ca.
Carol, it looks like a fantastic program. You can tell how much fun the kids and adults are having. I wish there would have been something like that when I was young.
I know what you mean, Kathleen. I went to a fine arts camp, but it wasn't nearly as spectacular as this!
Super, Carol. I bet that was fun.
It was, Sheri!
Great way to share your new involvement with the arts in Greenville!
Loved this post. Playing is definitely part of growing an artist.
Thanks Linda & Vijaya. I loved watching the kids!
What an exciting, well-rounded cultural community! So fantastic that you're immersing yourself in art. Looking forward to meeting you soon. . . :-)
Thanks, Clara. I'm loving my new hometown and look forward to meeting you too!
It sounds like a wonderful time at an incredible program. Many thanks for volunteering!
You know the joy of volunteering, Jo! Combine that with a great arts camp and you have a winning combination!!
Wonderful programs. Thanks for telling me about it.
You're welcome, Rosi. Wouldn't you like to see your grandkids in programs like this? Perhaps you have something similar in Ca.
Carol, it looks like a fantastic program. You can tell how much fun the kids and adults are having. I wish there would have been something like that when I was young.
I know what you mean, Kathleen. I went to a fine arts camp, but it wasn't nearly as spectacular as this!