July 31, 2014
In October, Studios on the Park received a $25,000 matching grant from the Central Coast Wine Classic [CCWC] to provide "student hardship" scholarships for instruction in the arts.
Thanks to that grant and the recent support of the Avalon Foundation, plans are currently underway for an innovative pilot program with the Paso Robles Joint Unified School District.
The arts education program will commence in January and reach more than 700 local elementary school children, many of which are underserved.
First through fifth-grade students from Winifred Pifer and Virginia Peterson schools will visit Studios on the Park for classes in ceramics, collage, printmaking, and watercolor.
The experienced arts educators teaching the 28 classes include several of Studios on the Park professional artists who work onsite. Following the classes, students will have the opportunity to tour the unique open studios art facility.
Artworks produced by the students will be exhibited at Studios on the Park in late Spring for the entire community to view.
Studios on the Park recognizes the importance of quality arts education to our youth," said Studios on the Park executive Director Anne Laddon. "These generous grants will allow a team of professional artists to educate and inspire our community's youngest artists, with a goal of instilling in many of them a lifelong interest in and understanding of art and craft. We're honored by the CCWC and Avalon Foundation's endorsement and look forward to the synergy of this collaborative program"
According to a press release, research has shown that students who participate in rigorous arts programs are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement and four times more likely to participate in a math or science fair, among other accomplishments.
However, additional funds are required in order to expand the program to other schools and children's organizations. Laddon is reaching out to community members to raise the $20,000 currently needed. To make a donation, call 238-9800.
The grant builds on the nonprofit's dedication to arts education. Studios is a co-host with the city of Paso Robles and other local sponsors of the Paso Robels Festival of the Arts, an annual festival which celebrates the arts and promotes Paso Robles as an arts destination.
MORE ABOUT STUDIOS ON THE PARK
Studios on the PArk was founded in December of 2007 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a creative, educational, and transformational experience to enhance understanding and appreciation of the visual arts.
Studios on the Park realizes its commitment by making the creative process available to the public. Studios on the PArk engages and inspires the San Luis Obispo County community and its visitors with a unique open studio environment. Studios on the Park features artists working in a variety of media, educational programs for children and adults, and quality exhibitions by regional, national, and international artists.
Studios on the Park is located at 1130 Pine St. in historic downtown Paso Robles.
For more information, visit www.studiosonthepark.org or call 238.9800.
