How To Help Kids Enjoy Art... when the closest big art museum is hours away!

Getting kids involved in art in our rural mountain community can present unique challenges, but also offers some very special opportunities. Here's a breakdown of how to foster a love for art right here in Chaffee County.

Leveraging the Natural Environment:

 * Nature as Art Supply:  Use the natural beauty around us!  Forage for leaves, twigs, rocks, and pinecones to create nature collages, sculptures, or paint with natural pigments (berries, mud, etc.).  Go on nature walks specifically looking for interesting textures and shapes. Spend time on the banks of the Arkansas River.

 * En Plein Air Painting/Drawing: Take advantage of the stunning landscapes.  Pack up art supplies (even crayons) and head to a scenic spot for some outdoor painting or sketching.  The changing seasons offer endless inspiration.

 * Photography Hikes: Encourage kids to capture the beauty of their surroundings through photography.  Even a simple phone camera can be a powerful tool for artistic expression.  Organize themed photo walks (e.g., "wildflowers," "mountain textures").

Building Community Connections:

 * Local Artists as Mentors:  Connect with local artists in your area.  Many are willing to offer workshops, classes, or even mentorship to young aspiring artists.  A visiting artist program at the local school or community center could be impactful.

 * Community Art Projects:  Organize community murals, sculptures, or art installations.  This fosters a sense of belonging and gives kids a chance to contribute to their community's artistic landscape.  A collaborative mosaic project could be a great example.

 * Arts and Crafts Fairs:  Host a local arts and crafts fair where kids can showcase their creations.  This provides a platform for recognition and encourages them to continue developing their skills.

 * Partner with the Library:  Once ours is up and running...collaborate with the library to offer art workshops, book readings with art themes, or art-related displays.

Overcoming Challenges:

 * Limited Access to Supplies:  Think outside the box. How many amazing supplies are right on the ground? Explore using recycled materials or found objects. Talk to working artists. You’d be surprised how many of them have more than they can use, or have started in one media only to switch forever to another. You can also look for grant opportunities, organize supply drives, or create a community art supply "closet" where people can donate and borrow materials. 

 * Small Population:  Our smaller population means fewer opportunities for group art activities.  Consider forming a small art club that meets regularly, even if it's just a few kids.  Online art communities can also provide a sense of connection.

Specific Ideas for Mountain Communities:

 * Storytelling Through Art:  Encourage kids to tell stories about their community and the surrounding mountains through their art.  This could be through painting, writing, or even creating short films.

 * Nature-Inspired Art:  Use the natural environment as a source of inspiration for art projects.  Create leaf rubbings, paint landscapes, or sculpt with clay found in the area. Ephemeral art, which is art that is meant to be temporary, can be created with sand sculptures, cardboard forts, or even by collecting natural materials and arranging them on the ground.

Remember:

 * Start Small:  Even small initiatives can make a big difference.

 * Be Patient:  Building a thriving arts community takes time and effort.

 * Celebrate Successes:  Acknowledge and celebrate the artistic achievements of the children in your community.

By combining the unique resources of our rural mountain setting with creative solutions to potential challenges, you can foster a vibrant and enriching arts environment for your children.