Blog @ the Nelson-Atkins

Promoting art and art engagement is an important purpose of the Nelson-Atkins, and a wide variety of classes, open to students ages 3-17, is offered each session in the Ford Learning Center. Some of these studio art class options have been featured in earlier blog posts.

However, the classes are not always affordable for all students and families. The Nelson-Atkins recognizes this fact and reaches out to Kansas City youth and families through community programs and partnerships, as well as through The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Scholarship Program for Studio Art Classes.

How Does it Work? Who Benefits?
• The Scholarship Program provides opportunities for children to participate in art classes regardless of their financial circumstances.
• Scholarship students participate in classes free of charge.
• Partial scholarship students pay only 50% of class fees.
• Annually, 10-15% of students enrolled in Museum studio art classes receive scholarships.

A group of 5 high school students took on the “real world” challenge for a week this summer. Nelson-Atkins art teacher Kreshaun McKinney explained that the overall purpose of the class is to give students the opportunity to work directly with a local Kansas City artist.

Have you ever wondered what an ancient work of art looked like when it was first created? Or how an artist was able to achieve a certain color or texture? Ever wondered why lighting is different in various galleries? Or how to tell if a work of art is authentic?

If you have asked any of these questions, did you think that science held the answers? From June 21-25, the children’s studio class “Science of Art,” led by Ford Learning Center teacher Penny Selle, tackled those questions and more as students (ages 9-13) set forth on a hands-on exploration of science’s role in art.

The class began with a visit from Nelson-Atkins conservator Paul Benson who talked a bit about what a conservator does and how science factors into his job. Mr. Benson shared with the class a beautiful 300-year-old plate as well as a silver spoon, explaining that part of his job is to answer important questions about the objects. Impressive scientific equipment including x-rays, black lights, and the x-ray fluorescence spectrometer (or the XRF gun) is often used to help determine age, quality, authenticity and composition of art objects—and help identify their value and any needed repairs.

Check out the Nelson-Atkins fashionistas!

On Saturday, May 15, 2010, students (ages 13-18) put their creativity and fashion sense to the ultimate test during the Ford Learning Center’s workshop, Bloch the Runway. Taught by Kreshaun McKinney and Ashley Simons, the class viewed the featured photography exhibition, Edward Steichen—In High Fashion, to provide inspiration for designing their own unique, experimental garments.

The class loved the exhibition’s portrayal of “Old Hollywood Glamour” and several students referenced that style in their creations.

Following the tour, the class spent the remainder of the day constructing their outfits—including various accessories—out of wire, feathers, paint, tons of tulle, paper, recycled items and existing clothing.

Once it was “show time,” the adorned divas paraded their fashions in the Bloch lobby in front of their families and Museum visitors who were most impressed!

When asked how she enjoyed the class, student Sophia Seigfreid remarked, “This was an amazing experience that was very inspiring.”

Would you take the fashion design challenge?

By:Kreshaun McKinney