Art and the Arts

In elementary school, art was my favorite subject.  Actually, it was always my favorite subject.  But, as you get older and farther along in school, it isn't around as much.  That is so sad.  I miss music too.  I played the violin starting in third grade at my elementary school.  I played all the way through high school.  There is no musical instrument instruction in elementary grades anymore, with the exception of a few hours with a recorder or drum in music class.
My first 4 years with CMS, I was involved in a program called ArtsTeach that was sponsored by the Arts and Science Council.  We got to go to a week-long workshop with yummy boxed lunches and watch people excel at their art: music, book-making, puppets, theater, instruments, storytelling, and even a mime.  Then, as a grade level we got to choose one of the teaching artists to come to our class during the year and incorporate their art into our curriculum.  Sadly, the funding for ArtsTeach came to an end.  But you know what?  I can do some of these things!
I know a little about music.  I am very crafty and can make different types of books and puppets.  I am a fairly decent artist.  And, hopefully, I have a new connection.  I was in touch with a woman from Clayworks in Charlotte.  We are currently playing phone tag, but she made me feel hopeful that we could form a partnership this year.  The kids LOVE working with clay!  I can't wait to make this happen.  If you have any artistic connections, let me know!
I also am going to try to recreate types of art from some of the countries that we "visit" during the Global Children's Challenge, and we will listen to music as well.  Maybe even try the food?  Only time will tell...
And sticking with the global theme, I am thinking a project where we mail things all over the world is in order.  Be thinking about some good global candidates!