Look at art, express yourself, and make new friends!
Middle School Makers is a free afterschool art program at the Wellin Museum of Art for middle school students. Each session will introduce an original work of art and related studio art project that challenges participants to engage in artistic problem-solving and imagination. Participants will be encouraged to work collaboratively, reflect on challenges, and contribute to a supportive art environment.
Middle School Makers programs are led by Wellin Museum docents in collaboration with the education staff.
Program Dates and Topics
All sessions take place on Wednesdays from 2:45 – 4:15 pm at the Wellin Museum of Art at Hamilton College, located at 206 College Hill Rd., Clinton, NY 13323.
February 26: Animal Amulets
During this session, students will learn about ancient Egyptian scarab beetles and molds in the Wellin’s collection and think about the meanings and superstitions objects hold. They will then create their own mold and hot-glue amulet that they can wear.
March 5: Manuscript Illuminations
During this session, students will learn about the Wellin's Persian manuscript pages and create their own bestiary page using medieval pigment-making and manuscript illumination methods.
March 12: Clay Creations
During this session, students will look to the sculptures of Donté K. Hayes for inspiration about representing their identities in their artwork. Students will then have the opportunity to create their own abstract sculptures that represent important aspects of who they are.
April 9: Fiber and Fish Frenzy
During this session, students will examine Alexa Hatanaka’s sculpture Koinobori (eggs in the belly) and learn about the ancient practice of washi paper making in Japan. They will then get to make their own paper and collect it the following week.
April 16: 3D Collage Fabrication
During this session, inspired by the sculptures of Michael Rakowitz, students will consider how they impact the environment and animals around them. Using food wrappers and other found materials, they will create and adorn a 3D cardboard animal sculpture.
Registration
Participants must pre-register for each session. Space is limited. Parents/guardians must also fill out a permission form in advance of the first session that the participant plans to attend. Permission forms will be emailed to the parent/guardian after their child's online registration is received. Permission forms can be returned to the museum via email or in person.
Register here.
Cancellation
If a participant needs to cancel their registration for a particular date, please email egirard@hamilton.edu.
