On Aug. 15 at Burlington Square Mall children of Alamance County had a wonderful opportunity to explore and experience some free art instruction from artists’ members of the Burlington Artists League. Children of all ages were invited by the BAL to participate in its first sponsored, free art instructional event for children.

Artists volunteered their time and supplies to give free art instruction. Parents registered children for the event in the BAL Gallery and encouraged their children as they completed one or more projects at the various stations set up by the artists. Many children took advantage of the BAL Fine Arts Gallery’s offer to exhibit their art for the remainder of August. Information about other children events and children’s art instructors was available to parents.

A special thanks is extended to the following artists that helped in this event.  Artist Judy Madren, provided instruction and supplies for personal, original, acrylic painted greeting cards. Jewelry designer Lou Anne Summers provided supplies and assisted children in beading and stone wrapping.  Ariel Dishman assisted in drawing and painting with markers. Artist Kathy Alderman provided supplies and artist Carol Donovan assisted her by helping the children make sun catchers. Nikki Lee, supplied paint, stamp pads, and paper and helped children as they created fingerprint art. Origami artist and photographer Thomas Conally provided instruction and supplies in the art of origami. Carolyn Teague and Ethel Ann Carter, both watercolorists, supplied and instructed children in the use of watercolors and collage. Artists Elaine Pelkey-Herrick and Carolyn Harris registered children for the event. Parents and children applauded the efforts of the BAL volunteers for giving so freely of their time and materials to make the event so enjoyable. With the success of this event, other such events are being considered for the future. The Burlington Square Mall certainly is to be commended for their community interest and involvement by providing the space, tables, chairs and marquee advertisement.

Thanks to all participants and volunteers,

JAMES TEAGUE
Burlington

James Teague is the Burlington Artists League event coordinator for “Make it and take it art for children.”