The Children’s Art Talk and Tour at the Mansion at Strathmore is a free event. This event is for ages 5 and up with an adult. It lasts 45 minutes and begins with a talk and tour of the current art exhibit and ends in a hands-on activity for the children. Typically, there is only one Children’s Art Talk and Tour scheduled for each exhibition.
I attended with my two children, ages 4 and 6. We toured the current exhibit, Skin about body illustration including tattoo, body painting, and make-up. The Mansion curator led the talk and tour. One of the artists, John Borstel, whose work is being exhibited at the Mansion spoke briefly when we were in the room displaying his photography. A minimal amount of time was spent in each room. However, the curator highlighted the theme of each room. She did a good job of trying to make the subject connect with the children and even suggested they sit down when tired.
Once the tour ended, families were escorted into the Mansion’s sun room for an art activity related to the exhibit. The children sketched a picture of a tattoo that they would want on themselves. They were encouraged to pick something meaningful. My daughter drew a picture of her best friend. Using skin safe markers, the activity leader transferred the picture to the child’s skin. If desired, the children transferred their own pictures. The activity leader encouraged the children and asked them questions to make them think about their art work. The leader assisted the children as needed.
The Skin exhibition ends November 3, 2012. Following Skin are two new exhibits, the 79th Annual Fine Art in Miniature and Grayscale. Both will be on display from November 17, 2012 through December 29, 2012. The Children’s Art Talk and Tour for these two exhibits will take place on December 8, 2012. For reservations, visit the website and look under the calendar option or go to the Education link at the top of web page.
Bottom Line
Before making reservations, I recommend reading about the current exhibit. I wish I had spent more time considering that an exhibit on body illustration might be over the heads of my children, almost 5 and 7. As the art exhibits change throughout the year, I would definitely consider attending a future Children’s Art Talk and Tour at the Mansion at Strathmore. The staff were welcoming to the children and presented the information in an age appropriate way.
Some Important Info
- Online reservations through the website are necessary, as space is limited.
- The event lasts approximately 45 minutes.
- There will be a hands-on art activity for the children, so have them wear clothes you won’t mind getting a bit dirty.
- Pictures are not allowed of the art work. However, the Mansion and its grounds are quite lovely and made for some great photo opportunities with the kids.
- Free parking is available in the Mansion lot, entrance at 10701 Rockville Pike.
