Family Art Night: Masters of the Art World

November 15 – Over 150 students and their families turned out for Family Art Night on November 15th. Eager artists were greeted with a plethora of opportunities to explore their creative side and experiment with many styles of art while learning about different artists.  From watercolors, pastels, acrylics and colored pencils to plaster of paris, mosaics and wood, there was something for everyone!

Each station was carefully designed to offer everyone a unique experience.  Some participants learned techniques and skills using different mediums to create pieces in the style of great artists including Kandinsky’s music inspired pieces, Degas’ ballerinas, O’Keeffe’s giant luminescent flowers, Nevelson’s wood scrap sculptures and Thiebaud’s pop art ice cream cones. Others  learned how to make paper while still others painted flowers they first created from plaster and wire (to be displayed during Tu Bishvat).

Guests were taught the technique of creating art through paint pouring, created a mosaic for our new Pardes Chesed board and/or made a Japanese style “inspirational book”.  In addition, each student was eager to inscribe a special leaf to be incorporated into a magnificent sculpture that will be presented to the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh.

“The whole idea for Family Art Night began over 12 years ago,” said Pardes Art teacher Orit Feinberg. “Parents kept expressing their desire for art classes where they could experience art once again, with their children.”

The evening was a huge success on many levels.  In addition to creating new pieces which they took home with them, students and family members were able to expand and explore their talents and interests in a hands-on, fun environment were everyone felt safe and encouraged to let their inner artist shine.

“One of my family’s favorite school events of the year is Art Night,” said parent Denise Greenblatt.  “Each year the activities get more imaginative. Orit Feinberg, Pardes’ art teacher extraordinaire, creates innovative and unique projects that everyone loves to participate in. One of the unique projects this year was making your own paper!  Not only are the projects fun, but each project is tied to a particular artist and his or her artistic style. Getting messy is such a wonderful way to learn! My kids and I absolutely loved the whole experience!”