The Passion of El Barrio
The Passion of El Barrio
Creative Art Works deepens its relationship in a rich & dynamic neighborhood
Story and photos by CAW Communications Intern Sadé Washington
Home is where the heart is, and CAW’s heart has been in El Barrio ever since we began offering arts programs there 30 years ago. We are excited to be offering a new art workshop for families with young children at Artspace PS109 every Saturday in February. The program is based on our successful Art Around the World curriculum, in which children first learn about art history and then create their own versions of art works inspired by world cultures.
During the first session, participants created self-portraits inspired by the works of Mexican artist Fredia Kahlo. In the second session, they made watercolor paintings of their family inspired by the works of Chicana artist Carmen Lomas Garza.
Making art as a family. Back row: Magdalena and Ariel; front row: Nandi, Percy and Idalis.
“I am thankful for programs like this, [other programs are] are so expensive. ”
Clayton works on a self portrait.
Teaching Artist, Beata Drozd, who also teaches a CAW Portfolio Prep Class at the nearby Renaissance School for the Arts, finds the Saturday morning classes stimulating. "The kids are very energetic on Saturdays, and I love it, because that’s when creativity shows in their artwork."
Making art can also have therapeutic value. When a discussion about family connections unexpectedly upset some children who were having difficulties at home, Beata and her Teaching Artist Assistants were able to successfully redirect the discussion by encouraging the children to create art about their family.
“The students’ artwork really amazed me,” said Beata. “We need to realize kids go through obstacles and are faced with problems at home. Sometimes art can transcend a child’s life and help them overcome things they might otherwise be afraid to talk about.”
Thanks to CAW’s relationship with the NAEA Student Chapter at Teachers College, we have volunteer teachers assisting Beata at Artspace PS109, such as Vanessa Arnold and Ava Cotlowitz. We look forward to the enthusiastic participation of more Teachers College volunteers during upcoming sessions.
6-years-old Idalis bonded with her father over their passion for drawing.
CAW Executive Director, Brian Ricklin says, “El Barrio is where CAW has its roots. While East Harlem remains an under-served community, it’s also culturally rich and dynamic. We are always thrilled to provide programs that connect kids, their art and their unique community. Artspace PS109 is a wonderful venue, and El Barrio's Operation Fight Back is an exciting partner. We look forward to collaborating with them in the years to come.”