At the Deco Arts Camp at Glen Echo, creativity knows no bounds, and self-directed artmaking takes center stage! I am thrilled to share how I have devised a unique and empowering approach to art education, allowing campers to explore their creativity freely while still benefiting from structured and guided projects.
Balancing Structure and Freedom
Deco Arts Camp is a place where young artists, aged 6 to 12, can indulge in a wide array of art projects. From landscape paintings and clay sculptures to paper mache creations and silk-screened t-shirts, our campers immerse themselves in the world of artistic expression. What sets us apart is the dedication to incorporating self-directed artmaking into their daily routines.
The camp schedule is thoughtfully designed to balance structured art projects with ample free time. Each day is divided into three work periods: 9-11 am, 12-2 pm, and 2-3 pm. During the afternoon slot (2-3 pm), campers are encouraged to explore their creativity without limitations, making whatever their hearts desire.
The Magic of Free Time
The 2-3 pm slot, known as free time, is an engaging period where campers have complete freedom to unleash their creativity. They have access to the “Craft Bar,” which is a treasure trove of art materials. The “Craft Bar” empowers them to utilize various art supplies in their own unique way, sparking imaginative and original creations.
Both me and my amazing co-teacher Miss Katie believe in cultivating a sense of independence and responsibility among the campers. The “Craft Bar” operates under the principle of mutual respect, teaching young artists to handle materials with care while making their artistic visions come to life. To make sure this happens we always set the expectation of RESPECT. This means respect for each other, our teachers, the classroom, and its materials.
The Enchanting Book Nook
Apart from the “Craft Bar,” campers also have access to the “Book Nook” during free time. It’s a cozy corner filled with pillows, books, and a few toys. The books range in reading level and all are tied to the theme of creativity. We have picture books and graphic novels about artists, as well as comic books, coffee table art books, and some fantasy chapter books. There are natural objects like real fossils, crystals, fake plants, fake mushrooms, magnifying lenses, and fidget toys. This space allows campers to relax, immerse themselves in a good book, or even use the natural objects as inspiration in their art.
Inspired by Reggio Emilia
In my quest to create a nurturing and stimulating learning environment, I draw inspiration from the Reggio Emilia philosophy of education. The classroom acts as a second teacher, encouraging inquiry and exploration among the young artists. My co-teachers and I work hard to foster a sense of community and collaboration, allowing campers to learn from one another and share their artistic discoveries.
The Reggio Emilia approach is also about respecting each child’s individuality and interests. By providing free time and open-ended art stations, we allow campers to direct their own learning to some extent. This autonomy nurtures their creativity, builds their confidence, and instills a lifelong love for art.
Empowering Young Artists
At Deco Arts Camp, we believe that empowering young artists is more than just a catchphrase; it’s a core value we hold dear. By blending structured art projects with unbridled creativity during free time, we instill a sense of ownership in the campers’ artistic journey.
Through this approach, I have witnessed remarkable creative expression and beautiful art-making. I see a boost to the camper’s artistic abilities, decision-making skills, and self-esteem. Campers feel a genuine sense of pride in their creations, whether they are following guided projects or venturing into their own artistic endeavors.
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Deco Arts Camp at Glen Echo is not just a camp; it’s an artistic haven where young minds are encouraged to dream, create, and explore. By seamlessly incorporating self-directed artmaking into our structured program, the camp provides a space where campers can truly find their artistic voices.
The magic of free time, the enchanting “Craft Bar,” and the inspiring “Book Nook” all contribute to an unforgettable experience that empowers young artists to embrace their creativity fully. By adopting principles from the Reggio Emilia philosophy, we ensure that each child’s artistic journey is celebrated and cherished, setting the stage for a lifelong love affair with art.
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