CULTURAL ARTS WORKSHOPS FOR TEACHERS 2008
Location: Huntington High School
Oakwood & McKay Roads, Huntington
*Special thanks to Joan Fretz and our Journey Program partner Huntington UFSD for the use of the school cafeteria space and for custodial assistance during the 5 weekly sessions.
October 15, 2008
"The Science of Native American Ceramics" by Tonito Valderrama
Environmental ceramic artist and educator Tonito Valderrama illustrated clay techniques used by Native Americans to make fun and functional pieces. In his presentation, he also explored the cultural significance of animals and nature in Native American art and emphasized the science of sound and airflow. Teachers then made their own Native American ceramic instruments.
October 22, 2008
"A Taste of Australia" by Christopher Pitkin
Christopher Pitkin gave a fascinating taste of Aboriginal life "down under" at his October 22nd workshop. Educator and tireless traveler across his native Australia, he has acquired in-depth knowledge of indigenous flora & fauna and Aboriginal lifestyle, culture, and spirituality. After making an audio-visual presentation, Chris played traditional Australian music with a homemade "Didgeridoo," the world's oldest wind instrument. The teachers then made their own Aborigine-style dot paintings.
October 29, 2008
"The Culture and Art of Korea" by Sung Sook Setton
Sung Sook Setton, established artist and college instructor, studied under Korean and Chinese masters prior to her three-decade long practice of water-ink painting. Her presentation was based on the wonders of her native Korean culture with a comprehensive introduction to Korean calligraphy. The teachers then made their own traditional Eastern brush paintings.
November 5, 2008
"Folk Art Traditions of Mexico & Latin America"
Miguel Cossio, a Mexican visual and performing artist, has devoted much effort to folk art research and exploring ritual art forms within the Latin American experience. The interactive workshop included a PowerPoint presentation, and discussion of art projects tailored to various grade levels. The teachers then made an example of "banderas de papel," a traditional Mexican paper banner.
November 12, 2008
"Ajrakh : Indian Block Printing"
Puneeta Mittal, a ceramic artist, sculptor and educator, has teaching experience from across the globe. At her workshop, she demonstrated the process and vibrant results of Ajrakh with creative passion and intimate knowledge. This popular craft, originating in the north western region of her native India, involves printing on cloth with wooden blocks. During the workshop, paper was substituted for fabric and a simplified version of creating the blocks for all age groups was discussed.
For more information about the Cultural Arts Workshops, please call:
Caitlin Apostoli, Arts-in-Education Coordinator at 631-271-8423 x14 or email capostoli@huntingtonarts.org.
