Words have been used in almost every artistic medium as a way for artists to speak directly to viewers. Children will take inspiration from artists Jaune Quick-to-See Smith and Glenn Ligon, whose use of words in their artworks provoke discussion and contemplation of who we are individually and as a society. Choose from cutout letters from newspapers and magazines or draw your own words to make verbally and visually impactful creations.
About Open Studio
Taking place Mondays and Thursdays, Open Studio at Pier 57 invites children to explore hands-on projects across a wide range of artistic disciplines.
Specially designed for children on the Autism Spectrum but welcoming to all, each session is multisensory focused. Participants will explore art materials (such as clay, paper, or textiles) at their own pace alongside movement breaks and ample time for storytelling and social interaction. Open Studio is recommended for ages 12 & under.
What To Expect
Led by CMA Artist Instructors Emma Waldman and JT Baldassarre, each session introduces children to the elements and principles of art while surveying artists across generations.
The program’s curriculum is rooted in accessible artmaking practices and Children’s Museum of the Arts’ pedagogy of Look, Make, Share. Take a peek at one of our virtual Inclusives lessons, catered to children with Autism, that families can try at home: here!
While caregivers are welcome to stay with their children, families are encouraged to enjoy the extraordinary setting of Pier 57 in the adjacent Family Living Room for the duration of the session.
Image Credit: Jaune Quick-to-See Smith, Where Do We Come From? I, 2001, mixed media on canvas. The Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art, Cornell Fine Arts Museum, Rollins College.
Children's Museum of the Arts' Open Studio at Pier 57 is generously supported by the Horace W. Goldsmith Foundation, Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation, Ruth Foundation for the Arts, William Talbott Hillman Foundation, The LeRoy Neiman and Janet Byrne Neiman Foundation, Milton and Sally Avery Arts Foundation, Google Community Grants Fund,, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Harriet Ames Charitable Trust, The Cowles Charitable Trust,, and the Viniar Family Foundation.
Additional support is provided, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
Additional support is provided, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.