Art Appreciation

Art is an aesthetic force in our lives that can calm and relax us.

But moms know a few secrets about art too. For example, we know that if we want the right side of our kids’ brains to work, art is a good way to start. We also know that creating art makes them happy and a happy child makes a happy mom. Finally, we know that for kids, art is a great way to make a mess.

So we set out to find you a few great places where your kids can make that mess with the right instruction:

We have been keeping this one a secret for a while but it’s time to tell you about Art Workshop, our latest art class find. Located on Yonge just north of Eglinton, The Art Workshop is a favourite for kids who like to create true masterpieces. Maria Vilotijevic, owner, artist and mom of Natalia (10), teaches the children about the masters by studying their works and recreating them as their own on canvas. Children will come home with their own version of Madame Matisse and then proceed to tell you why they chose that work of art and who their favourite master is. Maria teaches art history through osmosis and the children take home a better understanding of what they are working on. We like that the classes are all small.
Good to Know: There is availability for March break camps and winter classes so call now to enquire.

Inspired by her eldest daughter’s encouragement to start her own art business, Nancy Johnston, SavvyMom to Samantha (11) and Charlotte (13) has been running art classes for children three and up from her basement studio at home for five years now. Her focus at Art Studio is on fine arts—she teaches a lot of painting and includes crafts that are “just too cool to not do”. For example, next week her class will be beading in response to student demand.
Good to Know: The next session starts after March Break so now is the time to email Nancy and book for the spring session.

Our Scouts in the Beach who told us about The Art Garage are all devout fans. Lawrence and Jeannette, a husband and wife team, have a gift for finding each child’s inner artist and bringing it out in a caring and positive environment. They offer a wide range of classes starting from mom and tots (aged 18 months) to adult art classes. The latest addition to the Art Garage line-up is a Sunday morning session offered to children with special needs.
Good to Know: There is still some space left for March Break camps but act quickly. Registration has just started for the spring session too.

There is plenty going on at the Og2 Galleries in Oakville. Space is still available (but limited) for March Break camps filled with outdoor activities by the lake for children six to twelve (how civilized). There are classes for children as young as four and their spring session for Saturday classes begins mid-March so call now and find out more.
Good to Know: For March Break camps, it’s best to call. Og2 galleries have boredom busters on PD days! Don’t you wish you knew that a few weeks ago? Also good to know is the information and registration for summer camp at Gairloch Gardens is coming out after March Break so stay tuned for that.

West Enders have probably heard of lello art school and gallery started by mom, artist and former teacher Janeen Brownrigg, and we know it’s definitely worth the trip. Lello offers classes for children as young as three ranging from art history to something intriguingly named ‘beyond doodles’. March Break camps have limited availability. (And spring sessions begin March 3 so the time is ripe.)
Good to Know: They throw a mean birthday party.

Now that you have taken care of the right side you can move onto the left. Life (like art) is all about balance, right?

Art Workshop
www.artworkshop.ca
(416) 967-5746

Art Studio
www.artstudioforchildren.com
(416) 488-8434

Art Garage
www.theartgarageinc.com
(416) 686-0960

lello art studio
www.lelloartschoolandgallery.com
(416) 762-7337

Og2 Galleries
www.oakvillegalleries.com
(905) 844-4402 x23

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