In
a scene straight out of Project Runway, the teens had two hours to
create a piece of clothing inspired by one of five artworks at the Cincinnati Art Museum.
They worked with bubble wrap, duct tape, acetate, paint and other found
materials. They sewed, they stapled, and they pinned. Then, they hit
the runway.
"It was a great way for
teens to get to know the collection and interpret works," says Kristine
Donnelly, coordinator for Family Learning at the Cincinnati Art Museum
in Eden Park and leader of the museum's 12-member Teen Advisory Board.
Teen
Board Members range in age from 14 to 19. They plan quarterly events
that are open to any teen from the region. Donnelly says between 25 and
50 teens typically participate in the programs, which range for studio
nights to movie nights to writing workshops.
Teen Advisory Board members have created teen guides to the museum and special tours. They even made a video trailer for an exhibit.
"They are always willing to go the extra mile to make a teen event successful," Donnelly says.
What
started in 2004 as a museum-driven initiative to engage young visitors
and encourage their future patronage has evolved into an opportunity for
teens to take ownership of their own art-inspired projects.
Teens
involved in the Advisory Board this year represent 12 high schools:
Anderson, St. Xavier, McAuley, Mt. Notre Dame, William Mason, Walnut
Hills, Highlands, Sycamore, Seton, Moeller, Summit Country Day School
and Seven Hills.
Their project for
this spring follows the Project Runway theme, but expands it to new,
original works of art by youth throughout the region. "Inspiration in
Eden Park" is a high-school student art show that will showcase work
created by teens and inspired by pieces of art on display at the CAM.
Do Good:
• Enter the art show. If you are or know a teen aged 14 to 18, visit the CAM's website to download an entry form. Entries are due March 18 for the April 15 show.
• Like the TAB. Keep up with the latest TAB news on Facebook.
• Join the circus contest.
Know a child aged 6 to 13? Find out how a coloring contest could lead
to a clowning gig with the Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus.
Seriously.
By Elissa Yancey
Photo of teens modeling their art-inspired couture courtesy Cincinnati Art Museum
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