So much to do at 'Arts for All'
The Masterworks Museum's “Arts for All” programme held last week was a great experience for children and their parents. There were so many different things to do, from helping to make a felt flower mural and découpage treasure boxes and masks in the classrooms, to doing different activities in the museum like painting a flower and a super hero face magnet or taking a self-guided tour of the current exhibition, Floral Lane.In the afternoon children could have enjoyed watching ‘Toy Story 3' or ‘The Chronicles of Narnia'. Whilst in the museum you heard the children laughing and having a great time.Robin DeSilva, one of the teachers at Masterworks, explained why she chose art for a job. She stated: “Because I love it, I always want to come to work. I love art and it's very enjoyable.” Mercedes DaSilva, 11, who was also helping at the camp, said she participates because she loves art, helping kids and because it's fun.According to the Masterworks Foundation, the reason for their focus on Bermudian art is that almost 200 years ago, many artists began coming to Bermuda to escape the harsh northern winters. Bermuda became the inspiration for their art, but when they left, they took their work with them. The Masterworks Foundation, since its formation in 1987, has gathered over 1,200 paintings, drawings, and photographs by well-known American, Canadian, British, and French artists and “brought them home.” The mission of Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art has always been to have a place to exhibit the growing Bermudiana Collection for the enjoyment and education of all, but most importantly, our children.Masterworks has held “Arts for All” for five years. Each year lots of kids and parents come and enjoy themselves. There is always an exhibition going on, and is so spectacular to see. There is also a separate room to showcase some of the children's art. Not only did the mothers participate but some fathers seemed to enjoy making the super hero masks as well.If you've missed “Arts for All” this time, or if you want to make art all year round, you can contact Masterworks. Even if you just want to express yourself, art is a great way to do that. The classes are on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. There is also a three-week workshop where children nine years and older will learn specific techniques and art styles. A few things you will be doing in the workshops are paper-making, felting, and clay sculptures. If you want to contact Masterworks, the phone number is 236-2950. The website is www.bermudamasterworks.com, and their location is inside the Bermuda Botanical Gardens at 183 South Shore Road.