Oliver Art Center in Frankfort is working extra hard this summer to reach young artists in the community. Due to COVID-19, OAC’s popular Creative Space and Reading Library are closed. But thanks to a few volunteers including Board Member Molly Harrison, visitors can take the Creative Space to-go. Bags of craft ideas and supplies designed for ages 3–7 are being stuffed by OAC staff and volunteers and will be available for pick up at Oliver Art Center starting June 25. There is no charge for these to-go art kits, but donations are always welcome. Kits will be provided until supplies run out.
For older kids or younger ones with parental assistance, OAC is offering a summer of free virtual online art classes. Starting June 29, kids can log into Google Classroom and join Meg Louwsma, OAC’s art instructor, for lessons on historic periods of art and artists, face to face teaching and assistance, how-to videos of several art projects and even a storytime segment with Kaitlin from Benzie Shores District Library. Each class will last one week with face-to-face sessions and work time and will conclude with an online exhibition of student work. Classes will run weekly into mid-August. Supply kits will be available at OAC for $10 starting June 25 and will include all the supplies needed for classes all summer.
“We have been living through some tough times, but for our kids, it has been a time of major change and upheaval. They are scared, anxious and bored. Art has a way of positively impacting lives and through the to-go kits and online classes, we are hoping that we can reach a part of the community that has suffered greatly during this time and try to make a difference,” says OAC Executive Director Mercedes Michalowski.
Contact the art center at info@oliverart.org for more information.