Friday, January 18, 2013

BUG COLLECTIONS AT CHEVY CHASE

The Winter 2013 session of Art After School is in full swing - we're psyched to be returning to a handful of schools this semester, as well as building relationships with new, fantastic schools in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Here's a little peek at a few bug collections from our entomologists at Chevy Chase Elementary. Students invented their own insects, and then pinned their illustrations to foam boards. :

Collection by Toni


















The "Perfume Bee" above does sting, but instead of causing pain, its sting injects its victim with his or her most favorite scent, which lasts for a whole week. Its coloring changes to match whatever scent it will pass on. This one was captured by someone who loves the smell of lemon candy.

Collection by Satch
















The "Moonbug" above looks like a small moon during the day, and under the light of the moon at night, its legs (shaped like stars) and head extend from its body. The "Colorly" grows a new color stripe on its body each year that it lives. You can see that an orange stripe is in progress. When the "Lovebug" is around, it means you are about to fall in love, OR, if you suspect you might be in love already, you are probably right.

Collection by Nellie



















This bug collection features two dapper bugs who sport top hats! The "UnLovebug" does the opposite of what the Lovebug (above) does. Steer clear of this one if you're looking for a romantic date this Valentine's day.

Friday, December 28, 2012

A WRINKLE IN (CURRICULUM PLANNING) TIME





























































































I was pulling together some reference pictures for an upcoming Art After School project related to book covers, and now all I want to do is curl up and re-read all of these!

Looking forward to the upcoming Make/Believe Winter 2013 session, which will see the aforementioned book cover project, bug collections, spirit animals, recipes for imaginary people, "glow snobes", and more.

Monday, December 10, 2012

MONDAY INSPIRATION: AMY HUGHES BRADEN

Amy with her work. photo via


















Check out artist Amy Hughes Braden and her work in this great write-up and interview at Arte Fuse. Amy will be teaching a few Make/Believe Art After School classes this Winter, and I am so happy to have her on board.

HAPPY COLLAGING KIDS AT OYSTER-ADAMS ELEMENTARY