Fun with the Tang Museum at the Library

When I told Atticus we were going to the library today to do an art project, the first thing he said was, "right now, Mom!?"   He couldn't wait to start the project.  As part of an annual visit to our local library, the Tang museum provides free art programs as part of the Summer Reading Program. 

This year the theme was sculpture and based on this piece of art:

What I loved about this program was that before diving into the hands-on part, making a sculpture of their own, the kids were encouraged to talk about art, and what they saw when looking at this specific piece of art.  It was amazing to see what their imaginations saw, from a fork, to an alien and a camera tripod.  They talked a little about abstract art and how art can mean different things to different people.  My guy is just under three, so it was a little over his head, but even he was getting into it, telling me it was a rocket ship, or a "guy." 

The kids were given supplies such as pipe cleaners, a small plastic cup, Popsicle sticks, tape, and buttons and asked to create their own version of the artwork they discussed. 

 Atticus was so excited, he asked to make two, both of which he gave mustaches (he has become obsessed with mustaches...).

At the conclusion of the program, which ran about an hour, the kids were asked to put their work on display for others to admire, and participate in an Appreciation Circle.  Here, they got to talk about what they liked about each other's work.  Atticus liked the tallest one because, as he said, "it tall like me!" 

If you ever have a chance to attend a Tang museum library program, I highly recommend it.  Kids of all ages can appreciate and have fun with these projects and it is a wonderful learning and creative opportunity. Also, if you are in the Southern Adirondack Library System (SALS) be sure to check your Summer Reading calendar, because the Tang may be making a stop near you!

To stay connected with the Tang, here is some information:

Telephone: 518-580-8080
Website: www.skidmore.edu/tang
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TangMuseum
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TangMuseum