why

I hope that parents will look at this blog and feel inspired to start their own art clubs. I am a visual artist and so I started this project with a certain amount of confidence, but I think that anyone with some time to dedicate and an interest in helping their kids with art can give it a try. Of course, specific projects will vary according to the leader's interests and abilities, but I believe lesson content is less important than the simple act of forming a group dedicated to making art. The group must be made up of kids who enjoy making art, and the leader needs to provide project ideas, time, materials and space for the creative process to unfold. It's really pretty easy.

I know a good number of soccer league parent coaches, for example, who never played soccer themselves but feel obligated to step up and coach a team. I don't see this type of commitment being given to the arts. Our public school art programs are unable to provide the time and materials for excellent art instruction. Kids who are specifically motivated by visual ideas will not have their needs met during the school day alone. An art club not only gives these kids more access to time and materials, but the group can reinforce their talents and self identity as artists. Art club is about creating a sense of community for your kids and their peers.

Starting an art club is simple -- all you have to do is decide how often to meet and invite a certain number of kids to join. And the benefits are immediate and profound. The most obvious one for me was being able to make a real, lasting commitment to my son Henry. Before starting the art club I often fell short of my goals for making art with Henry. He was consistently making things, but something always seemed to get in the way of my ability to sit down and be a part of his process. Now that I have set aside one afternoon a week, and I have asked other kids to join in, I never miss out on the experience. I also get the joys and benefits of being an art coach. I get to share the stories, projects, and triumphs of the club each and every week. The students bring me constant inspiration and hope for a more inspired and creative future.

I would love to hear from other parents who are thinking about starting an art club. I want to swap project ideas and arrange future collaborative projects. I am willing to answer questions and give support to anyone who wants to start a group. I hope to schedule a talk in the future for interested parents, so please send your email information if you would like the details. Just leave a comment.