Art Explorers, a new after school
art enrichment program, starts this month in downtown Franklin.
Children from age 7 through 14 will experiment with painting,
sculpting, card making and other art experiences at Artbeat the
Creativity Store on Summer Street.
The objective is to “make art for the fun of it, “ says program
leader Claire Griffin who is a practicing artist in Franklin. “That’s
the best way to discover what you like, without the pressure of having
to earn grades.”
Unlike an art class that focuses on learning a specific skill, Art
Explorers gives students a chance to play with materials they may not
have tried before, such as gyotaku (Japanese fish printing),
SUMINAGASHI (paper marbling) and paper making. Students will also
learn how to keep an art journal using the materials they create in
class along with their own sketches and writing.
The program is led by Franklin artist Claire Griffin, who holds a BFA
from Mass College of Art. Griffin is the founder of Griffin Ink and a
member of the Franklin Art Association and the Franklin Cultural
Council.
The 10-week program begins September 29th and is held Tuesdays and
Thursdays from 3:30 to 5:30 pm. Snacks and materials are included in
the fee. Students can sign up for one or both days, and can attend
single sessions or sign up for the series.
Children not ready or able to join up for a class will be able to
explore mosaics, sand painting, and other art projects at their
leisure in the adjacent walk-in studio. Learn More
