Saturday, April 4, 2009

Creating With Kids

Here are some of the creations I have used during camp and VBS activities. The designs are created to showcase and validate all of the efforts of the children .. thus validating that everyone can offer a gift of art. All of the creations are original and use very low cost, child friendly materials.

This is an Easter banner that Children age 5-11 created using the
butterfly as a symbol of resurrection. the large central butterfly is decorated using symbols of Christ including the Chi Rho and the descending dove. The smaller butterflies were precut and children embellished them. they were then attached to ribbons. The banner gives the illusion of fluttering butterflies as it is carried.











This banner was created by children
age 8-13. It was based on a play, written by Carolyn McDowell, entitled "Turnings". The children embellished 7' white spirals with color and other items symbolizing stages and events in life.
When suspended, the spirals turned representing ever changing life.









Though this banner is not truly textile based, It worked for the purpose.
Entitled "Trinity", the children used clear plastic plates and stained glass
paints to create symbols of the Holy trinity. It's hard to see here but the
base is a chain link rattan door cover. It allowed light and movement when the trinity symbols were attached.















This banner was painted by a wide range of children ... including preschool ages. It's hard to see but it as some iridescence. The swirls represent the Holy Spirit which was studied during a week where the theme was Trinity. The banner base is pleated creating pockets used by the congregation to place personal prayers and prayer requests. The pastor then collected the requests and used them as the basis for the pastoral prayer during a series of worship services in prayer.

Sewn With Spirit

As a new Blogger, I admit, I am the last person that would open thoughts to the world. I thank my daughters for pushing me into this arena. I "retired" from teaching and am now embarking on a new career that will encompass all things with seams. I have been a seamstress and textile artist for more years that I want to admit. The images here are a few items that I have created for friends and family.





Bargello Baby quilt













Laura's t-shirt quilt (back)











Laura's t-shirt quilt (front)