Betty Cowles and Marian Kramer started "Meet the Masters" (MTM) more than 20 years ago. They were dedicated to the arts and wanted to enhance programs offered by local elementary schools. They developed an outreach program to “enrich the education of fifth grade students with experiences in art appreciation”. The MTM program promotes interest in and understanding of artists’ lives in a historical context. This well known program also explores artists' techniques and teaches students through hands-on activities. Each volunteer docent receives extensive training, visits a school every month and presents a “master” artist. Children see reproductions of the artists work and discuss the art. MTM will reach over 320 students in eight public and private elementary schools in Burlington this year. The Burlington Fine Arts League provides grant funding for purchase of special supplies and art reproductions to be posted in classrooms. The Burlington School District supports the program, providing materials and student bussing.
We showcase student MTM projects at the May exhibition in the Gallery of the Art Center. The 2012 display will open on Wednesday, May 2 and all student projects in the style of Iowa Artist Grant Wood will line the gallery walls through May 16. Students will take the bus the gallery to view their own and other's works. While there they not only tour the gallery, but also have an opportunity to interact with a special artist, thanks to the Burlington Fine Arts League sponsorship.
On Thursday and Friday, May 3 & 4, 2012, author/musician John Duggleby will bring his "Artist in Overalls: The Life of Grant Wood" presentation to students at the Art Center Gallery. John Duggleby has spent over 35 years as a profession writer and musician. John has written numerous books, including, Imagine: John Lennon's Musical Odyssey (Morgan Reynolds, 2006), Uh Huh! The Life of Ray Charles (Morgan Reynolds, 2005), Story Painter: The Life of Jacob Lawrence (Chronicle 1998) and Artist in Overalls: The Life of Grant Wood (Chronicle, 1996). John currently performs art and music related interactive programs for young people based on his books.
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Guest Speaker May 3 & 4, 2012 Artist in Overalls: The Life of Grant Wood |
Matisse Banner students view their artwork. |
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| Gaudi Mosaic Students MTM Display | Picasso Collage by MTM Students |