Art classes for kids can solve the problem of “What are we going to do today?”, but what other benefits can these creative experiences offer? 

At PCA&D’s Center for Creative Exploration, we want Young Artist classes to do more than simply occupy a young student’s attention or give structure to these long pandemic days. We believe Young Artist classes ignite imagination, improve critical thinking and problem solving, and introduce children to an active arts community.

But don’t take our word for it. See what the students and their parents have to say:

 

“My favorite thing was seeing the art styles of other kids my age,” says Isabella Mondelli, who took Creating Characters for Comics & Stories: Grades 5-9. “It helped to see the difference between my art and theirs.”

“My favorite thing about the Comics with Imagination: Grades 5-9 class,” says parent Melanie Aden, “is that my son, who doesn’t like many things, loved it.” 

“It was a great experience for my daughter who is exploring her artistic side. She learned many new techniques,” says parent Carmen M. Guaigua, whose daughter took Animal Art Explorers.

“It is wonderful to see all the amazing artwork done by the students in the recent classes. The talent is impressive, and I know my daughter LOVED coming each week,” says parent Anne Rankin, whose daughter Rachel took our Young Artist Academy. “As I told her art teacher at school, ‘She has now found her new happy place!’”

What about online classes? Virtual learning in our Young Artist classes can be as fruitful and engaging as in-person learning.

“Stephanie Mowery (instructor for Animal Art Explorers: Grades 1-4 online) did a fantastic job working with this younger age group. It can be really difficult to navigate online learning with 1st- and 2nd-graders, but she managed the class so well. Everyone had fun, and the engagement from students was excellent,” says parent and professor Jessica Sponsler. 

“The instructor (Susan Ulrich) was so warm and engaging; she really made the online platform a meaningful experience. All the art created was wonderful, and the social-justice/activism aspect gave the kids an outlet during this crazy time,” says parent Annie Hale, whose daughter took our Fall online art class Art Matters: Exploring Art Created for Social Change: Grades 6-9.

This winter, we’re offering 10 different Young Artist opportunities, ranging from 6-week classes, to 2-week classes, and even a one-time workshop. We have in-person classes (following all social distancing protocols) as well as online classes. Not sure which class is right for your child? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at ce@pcad.edu, and we’ll help you every step of the way. 

Top image: Work by Lucila Intriago, Animal Art Explorers