Artful Tales

A free-with-paid-admission, daily, early art & literacy program.  Gallery Educators read a story in ArtVille once each day. Children are then encouraged to use costumes, instruments and/or art supplies to tap into their imaginations using the illustrations/art and theme of the books as their inspiration. Goals are to develop pre-reading skills, language and vocabulary development, critical thinking skills, creative expression, and exposure to basic art concepts. By exploring a variety of art materials and techniques, children experiment with pattern, shape and color, develop gross and fine-motor abilities, and improve problem-solving skills.

Artful Tales Experience – Currently Unavailable 

This is a guided early art & literacy program led by a trained Gallery Educator. This program was specifically created to fulfill requests from organized early childhood groups serving 3- to 5-year-olds. This includes daycare, preschool, homeschool groups, and other similar groups. The 60-minute program includes a private story time and a hands-on art activity that is based on the theme of the book. Additionally, a directed outdoor activity, which is linked to theme/topic of the book/exhibition is also included (weather permitting). The group then has an opportunity to visit the museum for free exploration time in ArtVille, the HUB and the Whiteman Family Exhibition Gallery, which features changing art exhibitions.

Learning Goals/impact:

  • Children develop pre-reading skills, language and vocabulary development, critical thinking skills, creative expression, and exposure to basic art concepts.
  • By exploring a variety of art materials and techniques, children experiment with pattern, shape and color, develop gross and fine-motor abilities, and improve problem-solving skills.
  • While exploring the galleries, children will be able to experience and interact with the artwork on display and will have an opportunity to discuss and form opinions about works of art.

The program will demonstrate to teachers how to use the museum environment as a teaching tool to extend and build upon their own curriculum.

Special funding for Title I schools is available on a first-come, first-served basis through the museum’s Access for All fund, made possible by generous donations from supporters and organizations.