The MoMA, Museum of Modern Art in New York City, is offering some very exciting classes that allows anyone to enter the exciting world of modern art anytime, anywhere. Perhaps the idea of being an artist and engaging in the right side of your brain is appealing, but where to start?
If you live in NYC, there are 5, 8 or 10 week classes that are instructor led that start this March. For those with busy schedules or live halfway across the country, there are online classes taught by the same instructors who teach in the Museum's classrooms and galleries.
According to their website, “you'll discover the fascinating stories and ideas behind some of the masterpieces in MoMA's collection using a rich variety of multimedia materials, including narrated slide shows, course texts, images, and engaging, exclusive videos shot on location in the galleries.” You can read more about the classes offered here.
While this is a more in-depth course, there are other courses offered around the country for adults, students or even families! On the west coast, The Getty in L.A. has wonderful and interactive classes. These classes are shorter in duration and may accommodate a schedule that can’t commit to a more vigorous course. Exciting to me are the culinary workshops offered there!
The Art Institute of Chicago in the Midwest also offers programs to increase art awareness and appreciation to all age groups. Their teen programs at the Art Institute provide a space for young adults to connect with works of art that inspire them, allow them to create their own works of art, go behind-the-scenes to find out what people who work in the museum do, meet artists, and get together with other interesting teens. And across the pond in merry old England, The Tate in London offers opportunities for all age budding artists to tap into their creative side similar to other museums. They have a very robust program for teachers who can take a professional training course, or come to a teachers-only preview of one of their exhibitions.
Most local museums offer patrons and visitors courses and learning opportunities at various levels. It’s easier than one thinks to inspire the mind and begin to develop an imaginative outlet within your own community.