It’s that time again, the directors and teachers of Artology have been working hard the past few months to prepare for this years camp season. We are proud to announce that this year’s theme for Artology is.. EARTH!
The art and science teachers have developed an exceptional curriculum that will encourage this year’s ‘Artologist’ to explore their neighborhoods, parks, and museums in order to learn about the earth they walk upon. Larry Stier, Artology’s science teacher, is thrilled about the many field trips planned for our Artologists, but is particularly excited about the trip to the Wissahickon creek that the children will be taking early on at camp. When asked to describe a high point when visiting the Wissahickon Larry responded, “its just being present there and absorbing the wonder of nature.” We hope our Artologist experience the same sensation on field trips in Philadelphia, as they become exposed to natural beauty and wonder on these field studies, they will then start to gain appreciation for their community and it’s natural gifts.
Along with examining and hypothesizing their scientific findings at camp they will simultaneously be responding creatively to their discoveries. The art and science curriculums are carefully interwoven so that children understand the importance of both the arts and sciences. Vivian Rowe, Artology’s art teacher, has developed lesson plans that will challenge Artologists to look at their environments with a new and creative perspective. This year, Vivian has planned to have Artologist create a Zen rock garden to learn about compassion, peacemaking and the interconnectivity between earthlings. “We are connected to the tragedies of Japan as we recreate a Japanese rock garden. As we learn about their culture we being to care about their culture and their people.”
Those are just a few insights into our Artology plans for this summer, other highlights of camp include our trips to the National Liberty Museum, Abington Art Center, and the East Falls Glass Studio. We wait in anticipation as we finish prepping for camp over the next two weeks. The first session for 6th-8th graders begins June 27th and will go untill July 15th.
The deadline for applications is this Friday (June 17th), for an application or more information please call Alysia Williams or Rachel Schaffran at (215)-842-0428.
