Exploring Arts is a PTO funded program that shares knowledge on a variety of topics dealing with Art. For more than 25 years, Granby parent volunteers have coordinated with teachers' curriculum to enhance learning. It is our goal to have a volunteer come into your child's classroom to present an Artist, a period in Art History, or a topic/style of art.

Together with the teacher, the volunteers choose a subject, country or time period that could be enhanced with a presentation of an artist, period of art history, style of art or art topic. After the presentation students use their creativity to complete a project. To give you a brief description of presentations and what a volunteer would hope to achieve, here are some examples of past subjects and projects:

• A second grade class was studying Native Americans. Volunteers shared information with the class on Native American art, such as Navajo Blankets, Pottery and Sand Painting. The students made their own sand art pictures, using Native American symbols.
• A fourth grade class in their study of Africa, discussed the use of masks. Afterwards, the students made their own African Masks, out of cardboard.
• A first grade class learned about the artist Rembrandt as an engraver as well as a painter. Afterwards, they made their own copper engravings.
• A kindergarten class learned about the style of artist and author Eric Carle, They created paintings and tissue paper art in his style.

**We need your help.** This program is made possible through the participation of volunteers. THIS IS A GREAT WAY TO VOLUNTEER IN YOUR CHILDS CLASS. We are in need of volunteers in each class K-6. You do not need an art background or prior experience to be an Exploring Arts volunteer. Much of the materials and resources you need to create a presentation for your child's class are provided. On average, there are 3 presentations per year per class. Presentation times are arranged between you and the classroom teacher, allowing some flexibility for busy parents. If you would like to volunteer, please use the PTO Online Volunteer Signup Form.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask fellow parents and teachers about their experiences with Exploring Arts. You can also contact the Exploring Arts committee through the PTO link: exploringarts@granbypto.org. We look forward to a great year with you.

Thank you for your interest!