As a docent at the Springfield Art Museum, I take 5th grade students on a discovery mission. Some of them have never visited a museum before. Some are awestruck by what they see, some don’t care so much.
During a recent tour I introduced the images of local homeless people. (This is a photography show with stories told by the featured individuals) It struck a cord with this group of students. These kids were visibly touched by the information they received. They wanted to see the whole exhibit! The teacher pleaded for it, her face was pained as she confided, four of the students in our group are homeless.
Each student was asked to find one of the portraits to connect with and read their story. Later the students volunteered their experience with the group. Everyone had something to share, including the homeless students. Of course, I did not know who they were.
Interestingly, a later group of 5th graders showed no interest in this exhibit, but focused in on the brightly colored modern art. Teaching children in a museum is an eye opening and rewarding experience for both, teachers and kids.
Mark your calendars for these upcoming Art events:
First Friday, October 4
I’ll welcome you at these Art receptions:
Efactory 4-6pm
Obelisk Home 6-8pm
Saturday, October 5,
Meike Aton Art Studio
Come learn to express your inner artist in our workshop ‘Painting from the Heart”
Thursday, October 10,
Showing my Art in Downtown Bentonville, Arkansas
Saturday & Sunday October 12 & 13
Art in the Park, Sequiota Park, 3500 Lone Pine Ave Springfield
Thursday, October 24,
Open House at Meike Aton Art Gallery
Saturday, October 26
‘Painting from the Heart’ Painting Workshop at Meike Aton Art Studio