September 23, 2009
Museum offers free Saturday programs for kids
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Oh, there are things for kids to do on weekends during the school year. That’s not the problem, really, it’s paying for all those things that’s the problem. University Museum at Southern Illinois University Carbondale has you covered.
Completely Free Saturday Programs for the fall 2009 season bring young students and art together, both in the appreciative and the creative ways. Workshops use current museum exhibits as a starting point that ends with some sort of creative project.
Pre-registration is required. Pre-register by calling 618/453-5388. Space is limited, so call several days in advance.
Programs begin at the museum in Faner Hall and run from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Here’s what’s on the schedule this fall:
Sept. 26 -- Look, Ma, No Camera!
This workshop introduces the possibilities of camera-less photography. Participants can make their own images with light-sensitive paper.
Oct. 17 -- Me Two!
Participants blend a portrait photograph of themselves with a portrait of someone else -- an historical or political figure, a comic book hero, fictional character, whatever they want. Then the participants write about the new person in the created image. If there is time, students can try the same experiment with group portraits.
Nov. 14 -- Abstract Express Yourself, Photo Collage
This project begins with photography. Participants will shoot various objects for their textures, lines and shapes. Then they’ll use copies of the photos to create abstract expressionist photo collages.
Dec. 12 -- Museum Games
Do you know how to behave in a museum? Whispers and hands to yourself? Not this day. SIUC students in the museum studies program help with this project that sees museum exhibits and participants and games.
Families may sign up for every program or just the ones that appeal or can fit into the schedule. However, pre-registration is required before every program.
University Museum is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays, 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, and is closed on Monday. Admission to most exhibits is free, and donations are always welcome.