Back by popular demand, “Art for Kids” and “Lego My Library” return to the Cazenovia Public Library during October.
The Willow Pattern: A Story in Blue and White kicks off the 2015 “Art for Kids” series. Children ages 8-14 are invited to join Pat Hill and Jenna Wright-Martin in the Cazenovia Public Library Community Room on Friday, October 9th from1:30 to 3:00 pm.
Inspired by the fine Chinese porcelain heavily imported to England during the late 16th century, the “Willow Pattern” is an ornamental ceramic decoration popularized in 18th century England. Designed by Thomas Minton around 1790, the pretty and intricate design, featuring white and blue hues, has endured for over 200 years.
The original decoration, created through a process called “transfer printing,” required the artist’s image to be etched onto a copper plate. Ink was applied to the copper and transferred onto a piece of tissue paper. The paper was then applied to the ceramic piece, transferring the image to the pottery.
The traditional pattern, depicting an exotic Asian landscape, lent itself to a series of narratives that captured the imagination of the public. Set in China, the most popular tale tells the story of two star-crossed lovers. The English fable inspired an opera, a novel, and a number of children’s storybooks.
During the October 9th program, children will examine the medium of pottery as a means of expression. Focusing on the art of drawing and storytelling, participants will have the opportunity to create a pattern that integrates elements of their own fable or legend. Using tracing paper and sharpies, they will transfer their pattern onto a Syracuse China ceramic plate to create a special keepsake.
As in past years, Art for Kids participants will qualify for a chance to win a beautiful 178-piece art collection that includes just about everything an artist would need—color markers, crayons, color pencils, watercolor cakes, oil pastels, acrylic paint tubes, and much more—all arranged in a beautiful wooden case with adjustable trays.
Don’t miss the chance to join in this fun and informative program on October 9th. But to ensure program quality, class size is limited. Stop by or call the library at 655- 9322 to reserve a spot, and keep your eyes open for details on future “Art for Kids” programming that are scheduled on Cazenovia Central School District half-days.