Family day brings creativity indoors

 

story and photos by Ruby Dean
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Fort Smith Regional Art Museum Family Day was a great way to beat the heat for young children. RAM sponsored a “found objects” art class July 23, at Creekmore Park Community Center from 1 to 4 p.m.

The proverb “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” proved true for more than 25 young people and their parents who brought found objects from home to create their own work of art. Some of the items parents and children were encouraged to bring were plastic bottles, buttons, marbles, feathers, rocks, or anything of interest to the aspiring artist. Items were available for those who did not have access to these items.

Teachers were on hand to assist the children with their projects. Refreshments of popcorn, peanuts, and cookies along with drinks were plentiful. The family day was free for everyone. The first 25 kids through the door received a card for a free ice cream from McDonald’s.

The children made whatever work of art their little minds could imagine from sponge super heros to plastic bottle bird feeders. Ashley Robbins, 8, from Fort Smith made a beach scene using toile, stickers, and card stock.

Artist Peter Lippincott, museum board trustee, was also available and helped kids make pieces of pottery. Louise Turner told stories to the children during story time. As she told a story, children were encouraged to sing the song along with her.

Marta Jones, president of the Board of Trustees, said “this is their first time to offer this event and hopes to offer more just like them once the museum opens up. Intentions are to have events like this for children once a month at the museum.”

Not only did the kids enjoy it, but parents also enjoyed helping their children, as well as making artsy items themselves.