It’s like that inspiring quote: “The future is…a place that is created – created first in the mind and will, created next in activity.” The myriad of children’s programs sponsored by the Plymouth Center for the Arts takes this axiom to heart, as it invests its time in teaching, supporting, and mentoring children in their artistic interests and pursuits. “The future is not some place we are going to,” the quote continues, “but one we are creating.” Indeed, the children’s programs allow participants to construct creations that are nothing but timeless.
Sarah Bates Washburn, a teacher of classes such as “Painting with Monkeys,” a program that focuses on the production of abstract work, and “Sloppy and Sculpey,” a camp that includes mini-sculptures and water balloon painting, understands that “children are the artists of the future.” And why is this important? Marsha Hanby, overseer of the children’s programs, explains that children are the torchbearers of our culture; they will mature into adults who use what they have learned to express themselves, and in turn provide the community with insight and meaning. “The Arts Center reaches out as a home for future adult artists,” Hanby says, “who will hopefully continue to spread the word about the importance of the community’s culture in our lives.”
With various art classes intended for different age groups, enrolled students range from 5 to 16 years old. Students who are 16 years old or older are invited to explore their artistic abilities in adult classes. Surely, there is a place for anyone and everyone who wants to pick up a paintbrush, a pencil, a piece of paper.
During the school year, programs are offered in the local schools and supplemented by classes held at the Center. Hanby describes the eclectic course offerings: “drawing, cartooning, clay, painting, and creating using recycled materials.” In the words of Washburn, “It’s truly a yummy selection.”
Washburn herself played a pivotal role in providing the Center’s children’s programs. She orchestrated a lecture series featuring Victoria Wyeth, granddaughter of legendary painter Andrew Wyeth. With funds obtained from the lecture series, the Center was able to defray enrollment costs by 20 percent. Washburn makes it clear: It is vital to fund the children’s programs as much as possible. “It goes back to that circle of perpetuating an accessible artistic education within the community so we can inspire artists of the future,” she says. “With the current state of the economy it is important children’s art classes are affordable.”
