NORTH BATTLEFORD — Art is Messy is a two-part class in making sculptures held Aug. 13–14 at the Don Ross Centre Craft Room for children ages eight to 13.
The class is led by Aleksi Anseth with assistant Sandra Shih-Dodsworth. Anseth says they run a variety of youth programs in North Battleford, as well as programs for adults and teens. This art class has the highest attendance of the summer with 16 participants.
“It’s a project parents probably wouldn’t want to do at home, so it gives kids a chance to try something that does make a big mess without stressing out the parents,” Anseth says.
On day one, students first plan their sculptures by drawing their ideas on paper. Secondly, they create practice sculptures using plasticine. Next, they make tin foil and tape armatures as a base. The armatures are covered in papier-mache made from newspaper, glue and water. Many children say the glue mixture feels unusual at first. The sculptures are left to dry overnight.
On the second day, students paint their sculptures with acrylic craft paint. They can let their imaginations go as they explore the vibrancy of colour and they are free to make a big mess with the paint too. All completed projects are taken home at the end of class.
The next program is a back-to-school craft class on Aug. 20, where participants make pencil pouches, key chains and binders. The class is already full, but a waitlist is available.
On Aug. 25 from 1 to 5 p.m., there is a half-day class called Man’s Best Friend, where students create portraits of dogs in different styles and media. Space is still available.
For more information, call 306-445-1760.
