We attended First Studio at the Kreeger Museum a few weeks ago where children (and an adult companion) are invited to use their imagination as they explore the paintings, sculptures, and architecture of The Kreeger Museum. Each program includes a gallery tour, analysis of works of art, a story and a hands-on art-making experience. The workshop fee per child is $7 and adult companions are free. First Studio: An Art Exploration is intended for children ages 3-5. First Studio’s are held every 2nd Wednesday and every 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month from 10:00am-11:00am.
The theme of the workshop we attended was Art and Music. The art activity was to play ‘red light, green light’ with music; the kids drew and doodled with various materials and when the music stopped they switched papers and added onto another child’s paper. They repeated this about 5 times (great activity to do at home as well) and at the end each child described what they contributed to one of the pieces. They also made harmonicas out of straws, popsicle sticks and rubber bands.
The story was Theodore Goes to the Symphony which our leader read alongside the Grand Piano in the Museum. The story was written in rhyme and was about stage gitters and the unconditional love of children. Kids then got to choose a musical instrument to play and bring along as the leader showed us various works of art that music was present in. The kids were allowed to play the instruments in front of each art piece and practiced making rhythms. There were other guests at the Museum and I was impressed they allowed the children to play music. The kids stood in front of about 3-4 works of art which was a perfect amount for this age I think. Parents, however talked to their children about other works as we walked by them or pointed out colorful paintings or famous artists work; Picasso, Cézanne, van Gogh, Monet and more.
(Pictured: Gene Davis, Untitled)
This museum is tucked away on Foxhall Road, away from the hustle and bustle of downtown DC. I was very impressed with the Museum as well as the Education Program. It’s a great opportunity to expose children to art in an exciting, hands-on way. The entire visit was focused on the theme of Art and Music, it was organized and very engaging. We will definitely go back soon. There is free parking and while you’re there you can walk behind the group admiring the art work. Also, photos are allowed just no flash. Bonus: Each time your child attends a First Studio program, he or she receives a sticker. After collecting five stickers, your child will receive a junior membership to The Kreeger Museum and a coupon for one free family visit to the Kreeger.
Thanks for this post! I have always been curious about the kids pgrms at this beautiful museum and now I think it sounds like its worth a try.
Thank you so much for this post – our First Studio and Saturday Art Workshop participants are a real treasure and we so much enjoy having them at the Museum. Please check our website next month for the Fall schedule for First Studio and Saturday Art Workshops. Hope to see you and your children soon!