Beltway Bambinos

Anne Freeman, Owner of Anna Banana Art and Crafts opened her art studio for kids ages 2-8  in January of 2013.  Building on her Art History background, 20 years as an art dealer in D.C., teaching art privately and in preschools, Anna Banana Arts and Crafts is dedicated to teaching and encouraging the artistic process.  Children learn about The Masters such as Picasso, Matisse, van Gogh and Lichtenstein.  Art mediums such as painting, print making, sculpture and photography are presented in a child-friendly manner.  Children explore materials such as charcoal, graphite, pastels, watercolors, paint and markers to encourage creative art making.   Classes are for 2-8 year olds and Summer Camp for 4-8 year olds.

We were lucky enough to attend to a class in which the students were learning about Andy Warhol and creating a painting based on his work. Anne was enthusiastic, knowledgeable, engaging and just plain ole fun! The class began with kids free drawing and coloring, then followed the lesson and project. Once everyone finished at their own pace and cleaned their paintbrushes, Anne was eager to use her glow-in-the-dark paint she had just purchased hours earlier. Based on one little girls comment that she had a glow-in-the-dark rock at home, Anne excitedly found rocks and allowed them to paint their own on a whim. I love that she was so open to a last minute creation.

Classes fill up quickly, especially in the winter and summer camps. There are still spots available in the newest session (and she will prorate them), so check out the options and sign up today! Another perk: easy parking and for the older classes you can drop off at the doorstep! Anna Banana is also nominated for Red Tricycle’s Totally Awesome Award (in case you needed more convincing)!

Address: 3270 S Street, NW in Georgetown

                                                                                                                            (Painting the rock with glow-in-the-dark paint)