National Gallery gives kids an artistic summer
A youngster enjoys a previous summer of art
(CNS Local Life): The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands (NGCI) is offering art education to children ages 6 to 12 years throughout the summer. The gallery’s “A Summer of Art” programme, supported by the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman (RCGC), features free drop-in sessions on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. The summer programming features a range of activities including watercolour screen printing, ceramics, ink painting and collage. Students will learn about local and international artists, taking inspiration from their work, and visit the gallery’s exhibitions. Special Kids CineClub film screenings will be held on 20 July and 17 August.
“The Rotary Club of Grand Cayman is proud to support the National Gallery’s ‘A Summer of Art’ programme, and we hope to inspire creativity, encourage analytical thinking, and broaden the minds of our children,” said RCGC president Justin Bodden.
Gallery education officer Jessica Ebanks spoke of the benefits of the programme. “The art sessions will surely be fun and messy, in addition to being educational. We know that summer learning loss impacts many students, therefore it’s important for NGCI to offer accessible, engaging summer programming that allows children to enjoy their summer vacation while still benefitting from art education,” she said.
“The benefits of art education are far-reaching, from dabbling in science by experimenting with various materials, to strengthening critical thinking skills and boosting self-confidence.”
As part of the gallery’s Creative Careers programme, NGCI interns and work experience students will assist with the summer sessions under the guidance of NGCI staff, giving young people the opportunity to develop professional experience in arts education and administration.
“We welcome the creative ideas and energy of our interns and work experience students. With their assistance, it’s guaranteed to be an enriching and exciting summer programme for all involved,” said Tanya Whiteside, NGCI operations and programmes manager.
“A Summer of Art” at the National Gallery takes place every Tuesday and Thursday from 2pm to 4pm through 17 August in the Susan A. Olde Art Studio.
Space is limited to 20 students per session and is allocated on a first come, first serve basis (no pre-registration is necessary). Sessions are free and all materials are provided.
The programme is open to individual children (6 to 12 years) and families. Summer camps and large groups can book art sessions and tours separately.
For more information, visit the NGCI website or email the gallery
Category: Arts & Crafts
