Studio News from Caren Shayne
The Art Studio Is Officially Open!
Well, it took a little longer, (a lot longer actually) than previously expected, but the Art Studio is officially open for business! Anyone who has seen it will tell you though, it was worth the wait! This beautiful and spacious green house design with plenty of natural light is warm and welcoming.
George P. from 2 South expressed his feeling when he came for a tour of the studio. He said; “ I just LOVE it here!” His teacher asked; “What do you love about it George?” He replied; “It's so peaceful.”
We have filled the studio with natural and sensory rich materials, recycled and manufactured materials and a rich supply of art materials all of which are are easily accessible and presented in a way that is intended to capture the children's imagination.
Two weeks ago, I visited each classroom and showed them photos of the Studio construction work and the finished studio with empty shelves.
We had a discussion about the kinds of materials an art studio should have. The children were so excited as they began shouting out, “paint! How about glue? We need all kinds of paper!” I gave each child a “Wishing Stone” and told them to close their eyes and make a wish about the art studio.
These are just some of their wishes:
Carolina: I wish I could bring my kitty to the studio and make paw prints.
Diego: I wish I could make a big orange pinata.
Owen: I wish I could make a robot out of wood.
Conor: I wish I could do woodwork in the art studio.
Delvin: I would like to make a race car out of wood.
Raee: I wish I could make princess flowers out of clay and then paint them.
Last week the children came to the 6th floor in small groups to actually explore the studio and examine all the beautiful materials, from shells, sea glass, cork, and pine cones, to markers, paper, paint and pastels. The woodworking table, the three way easel and the large carving of a hand were of particular interest.
Now at last, with clay prepped, paint prepared and pastels perfect, the Art Studio if officially open!
If you haven't already done so, please feel free to visit, you won't want to leave.
The best times to pop in is 8:30 am and after 12:00pm.