FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

1.  What is Art Appreciation?

Art Appreciation is a PTO program that brings parent volunteers into a classroom to lead a lesson about art or an artist.

2.  Is this part of the art curriculum at Mann School?

Art Appreciation is separate from the art curriculum at Mann.  Each lesson is unique because it comes from you, from your own interests and research.

3.  Is this part of my child’s curriculum within his/her classroom?

Usually no.  Some, if not most, teachers would love for your project to relate to some of what they are doing in the classroom.  This doesn’t mean your art project has to be a math project.   But if your Matisse cut-out paper project can touch on “patterns” or “proportion” or any other buzzwords from current lessons, it is a nice bonus.  Communication with the teacher prior to arriving in the classroom is essential for this purpose.  As always, remember you are a GUEST in the classroom, and the teacher’s plans/wishes should be honored and obeyed (see FAQ #6 below).

4.  Do I have to teach a lesson?

Ideally, yes, but you may also serve proudly as a “helper” to another volunteer.  Many volunteers back off at the idea of speaking in front of a group of children.  Please know that this fear is worst the first time, and likely to get better.  With the exception of kindergarteners, most of the children will have been a part of an Art Appreciation session before, and they’re really looking forward to it.  They welcome your arrival, and are glad you are there.

5.  How many times per year do I have to go into the classroom?

Since each class will have a different number of volunteers, this number is not easy to answer.  If you have 8 volunteers for your child’s class, you may only go in once or twice yourself.  But if you are the only volunteer, you may end up going in more often.  Since the entire program is voluntary, only you can answer this question.  

6.  Do we have to make a “project,”  or can we just talk about an artist or a painting?

Art Appreciation does not have to end with a project for the kids to take home.  Some of the best lessons can be given through a reading session, or simply a discussion session about a person or work of art.

7.  Where do we get supplies?

There is a dedicated supply cabinet in the teachers’ lounge for Art Appreciation.  It is best to survey this cabinet before you expect to be in the class.  Each classroom is also well stocked with general supplies like glue, paper, markers, etc.  An email to the teacher, as well as a look in your child’s desk will help you come up with your supply list.

8.  Is there a budget/can I buy stuff for my lesson?

Yes, albeit a small one that must be shared by dozens of volunteers.  If you are spending the group’s money, please try to spend it wisely on supplies that others may use.  There is a reimbursement form in the school office.

9.  Can I do ANYTHING I want?

Almost!  You can do anything your child’s teacher approves.  Most projects are welcomed into the classroom, but there have been cases where the teacher found a project to be inappropriate.  These cases have been rare and have been along the lines of school policy and common sense.  Projects that are too holiday-specific, or specific to one religion, are two examples.  In these cases, the projects can likely be adapted to be more general or more inclusive, and therefore more appropriate.   

10.  Help!  I need an idea!

We designed this website to become a home for past projects.  So a good place to look for ideas is right here.  But this is just the beginning.  The links page on this site is home to art galleries, museums, and curriculum help that can all lead to inspiration.  The best ideas are simple and direct, but most of all, creative.  If you think you’re teaching/doing something the kids have probably never done before, you’re probably on the right track.  Trying new things is the essence of art itself, so don’t be afraid!

11.  What makes a good project?

Good projects are simple and time-savvy.  They tend to succeed if they focus in three areas:

1.  About the Artist – Here you focus on the artist, his life, biography and body of work.  Discussion focuses on the person, his influences, his changes in style, etc.  A good example would be a project that introduces kids to the life and work of an artist they may not know much about, like Keith Haring.
2.  About this work of art – Here you focus on a specific work of art.  Discussion is more focused on particulars: colors, shapes, themes, etc.  A good example would be a project that showcases the detail within a certain painting/print/photo and then leads to the kids trying that same detain on their own.  After looking at Warhol Marilyn Monroe prints, they could try to re-color photocopies of their own portraits.2.  About this work of art – Here you focus on a specific work of art.  Discussion is more focused on particulars: colors, shapes, themes, etc.  A good example would be a project that showcases the detail within a certain painting/print/photo and then leads to the kids trying that same detain on their own.  After looking at Warhol Marilyn Monroe prints, they could try to re-color photocopies of their own portraits.
3. Technique/Theme/Style – These sessions succeed by criss-crossing artists and works of art with each other. The discussion is about a trend, or a general theme.  A good example might be “Street Art/Graffitti” or “Stained Glass”

12.  What makes a bad project?

Bad projects are too complicated and not time-efficient.  Usually the ambition of the parent volunteer is too high for the audience.  There are some instances where the problem is the opposite, too simple and over too fast.  Which leads us to:

13.  Any other tips for success?

A “dry run” or trial effort is very strongly suggested for success.  Try talking to your own kids about your idea.  They will make it better immediately because you can see what it is that interests them.  If you are making a project, make one with your child.  See where they get tripped up, see if it’s too hard or too easy, and most important, see how long it takes!  In addition, keep in mind that children create art at different speeds.  If you are making a project, consider what happens when one child says “I’m done” and the other 19 have barely started.  Ask the teacher beforehand if they have busy work to do should they finish their project early, or, consider bringing in extra supplies so someone can make a second or third piece.  If you want to keep them in the art world, but don’t have enough supplies, they should have paper and markers in their desks, and you can suggest a simple drawing exercise that ties into your lesson.

14.  My project is done!  What do I do now?

Show it off!!  The giant bright yellow wall space in the school lobby is for Art Appreciation.  If your project can be hung (and is dry) you are welcome to do so for two weeks.  After that, please take your work down.  Questions about wall availability can be addressed to the Art Appreciation Coordinators.