Edition #1

Hello Jessie Beck Families,
I hope this message finds you well and healthy. Given the craziness of our current situation, Art to Grow is coming to you. This is an opportunity:
  • to stretch your creativity
  • be uplifting and positive
  • give you a chance to work on skills we don’t normally have time for in our day to day lives
  • help us cope with the new “norm” 
  • to have FUN! 
Yes, that’s right, ART for ART'S SAKE!

​[Below] you will find art related activities for your children and you. Giggles are included. These activities can be done individually or together as a family and require minimal materials.
1)  Sidewalk Crack Art
2)  Scavenger Hunt

Edition #2

This week I have attached two activities for your children and you to experiment and explore at home.
Bristlecone Pine Tree Contour Drawing
The first is a Bristlecone Pine Tree Contour Drawing lesson using lines to create visual texture using minimal materials. It is fun and relaxing. Don’t be surprised to find everyone at the table very quiet when they are drawing.
 
I have added a bonus with the attached link:  Treeline - The Secret Life of Trees by Patagonia Films. The first part highlights the Bristlecone Pine Tree and our Sierra Nevada area. The film is a spectacular visual journey and must see for any naturalist, outdoor enthusiasts or basic lover of trees.  A nice break from binge watching.
Monoprints Using Plastic Bags
Second is a lesson on monoprints using plastic bags. I love this process as it is great for all ages and you can use any type of paint, rollers, paint brush and fingers, Q-tips or skewers to create your drawings. As a family you can create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece layering everyone’s designs. We will revisit this process in the future with other collage activities.

Edition #3

This week I have attached two activities for your children and you to experiment and explore at home.
 
The first is Picasso inspired drawing lesson. While I have included examples, I recommend waiting to reveal them until your child (and yourself) have created your own. Step out of your comfort zone, have fun and share.

Picasso inspired drawing lesson

Color wheel challenge

Second, is a color wheel challenge for everyone. Using found objects from your home, you will create a color wheel. Your child will learn all about primary, secondary and intermediate (tertiary) colors and have fun searching and being creative.

Edition #4

Blind Contour Drawing

This week we will continue with contour drawing but this time it will be blind. Yes, that’s right, no peeking. This is an activity that can be used as a drawing warm up or to create some truly interesting images.

Paper Airplanes

The second activity is making paper airplanes. I have included links for the basics and a few advanced designs. These can be made from any paper at home, even newspaper if you would like. Remember to be patient with yourself. Folding a flat sheet of paper can be challenging. Take your time and practice. Once you have mastered making them, try having races with your family.
Race options may include:
  • Fastest
  • Farthest
  • Highest
  • Straightest
  • Closest to the target
If you would like to further the fun, might I recommend renting the movie Paper Planes.
I hope your children and you enjoy these activities and share laughter along the way.
 
Stay well and take time to enjoy this beautiful spring weather.

    Email Robin Heywood, Art to Grow Coordinator