Liberty Children’s Art Project (LCAP) in cooperation with Aspen Ridge Elementary School provided our fourth year of after school programs at the school located in the Ishpeming area of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in 2023. Chloe Fortune, Michigan certified art teacher, taught classes one day a week in two six week winter and spring sessions with the help of school volunteers. These classes are held immediately after school is dismissed in the school’s art room. These sessions of art production are interwoven with the study of art history, cultures and aesthetics from around the world and are interdisciplinary with other academic subjects. This work is created in a variety of contemporary media. Examples of this years lessons included:
Oil Pastel Drawing ‘ Who Am I?”
Watercolor Weaving Hearts
Dale Chihuly inspired Mini Macchia
Stuffed Felt Sugar Skull Sculptures
Haunted House Watercolor Resist
Nature Inspired Spray Art
Art enrichment classes have a profound effect on children in remote area such as this. Artists modeling self-confidence, motivation and curiosity have the potential to be highly inspirational role models. A recent report on area youth assets from the Great Lakes Center for Youth Development indict that time spent in creative outlets is the lowest asset reported. An after school art enrichment program provides students with a way to build confidence, participate in a social situation while developing an outlet for creative self expression in a safe and healthy environment. This program was attended by 55 students from the schools and was made possible by a Queen City Calendar donation and MCACA/NEA grant.
