CONNECT
- Group movement
- Take three deep breaths
- A moment of silence
We use the connecting moment to collectively slow down and touch in, so that our participants can be fully present in art making. Utilizing simple exercises such as physical stretching or taking three deep breaths together, we aim to utilize this moment to connect to our bodies and minds in order to create positive intention for students’ time spent in the SkyWAY program. We do not sit during this time as young people have just come from school and have been sitting all day. We use this time to engage their energy and be constantly vigilant as to not recreate the feeling of a classroom.
SEE
- Field trips
- Exposure to new art forms
- Expanding definitions of what art can be
By looking and learning how to see, we gain an understanding of the language of art, challenge our ideas of what art can be (things that don’t look like art can be art), gain an ability to analyze and develop critical thinking skills. Exposure to different art forms helps participants develop their own artistic voice. By looking at a wide range of art styles from across history to the present, ideas of “good” or “bad” art are dissolved and process comes into focus.
CREATE
- Experimentation
- Collaboration
- Freedom of choice
Art making is at the center of everything we do at SkyART. Participants are encouraged to explore different materials, find inspiration from a diverse cohort of teaching artists, and apply what they learn to their individual and/or collaborative projects. SkyART provides a supportive environment where youth from all developmental stages can create art and learn life skills. This process provides a safe platform for participants to play, explore new ideas, and practice how to work with others. We focus on process rather than outcome.
REFLECT
- What do you see?
- What did you learn?
- Why?
We reflect to better understand ourselves, our peers, our community and possibly the world in the context of making art. Creating language to express ourselves is a vital component to the development of the young minds. We do not just do this at the end of the SkyWAY, we do it throughout the session. We should always be engaging the youth in a reflective dialogue and asking them questions.