8 CREATIVE AND ARTSY DAY TRIPS FOR KIDS
Some of my favorite Christmas gifts as a child were those arts and crafts kits where you created something out of pieces. I loved the feeling of holding a finished product that I created with my own two hands, and, even more, I loved being able to share that creation with others. Looking back, I am so grateful for those little innovative opportunities, because I can now see that the creativity those opportunities inspired has carried over into so many other areas of my life. I’ve come to learn that creativity and ingenuity are essential to my studies and future career, no matter whether I am dealing with science, math or even social situations.
As an adult, I can now understand that my acquisition of innovative thinking and problem solving skills began with opportunities to explore my imagination. For me, my ability to imagine is a product of both an organization of thoughts and a spontaneity that I believe comes naturally and easily for young kids. For parents, it is important to take the time out of busy schedules to give kids these opportunities to foster and express their own imagination through all types of creative means. Take the kids on an artsy day trip and let their creativity run wild! You may even want to sign up for art classes with a talented local teacher.
CENTRAL VIRGINIA ART MUSEUMS AND CRAFT STUDIOS FOR FAMILY VISITS
Whether it be painting, drawing, woodworking, crafting or playing a musical instrument, arts and crafts are an easy and engaging way to inspire the power of imagination in your child. So, if you don’t feel like making and cleaning up a mess in your home or if you want to curb your little one’s craving for coloring on the walls again, try one of the many options in and around Charlottesville, Virginia that will let your child discover their inner Pablo Picasso or Andy Warhol. From creating your own glass artwork and rocking out on stage to painting your next masterpiece, there are so many family-friendly ways to get crafty. Let these local arts and craft hubs unleash your inner artists as the whole family stretches imaginations and takes creativity to new heights.
Amazement Square
Lynchburg, VA
The Art Bar
Charlottesville, VA
The Art Bar in downtown Charlottesville is a drop-in arts and crafts store that also features a mural room, a glow room, and a unique “splatter room” for endless creativity and fun. A go-to place for every art supply you could need, this popular spot also hosts workshops, classes and camps for all ability levels. Toddler Time is every Sunday for the littlest artists to explore and grow through stories and hands-on artistic experiences. theartbarcville.com
Foster Art
Charlottesville, VA
Foster Art offers teacher led art discovery and exploration for kids 5–15 and offers classes for preschoolers, teens and adults. Summer camps, parties, and a new after school program are also options. Have a budding artist in your home? Foster Art also offers private lessons in one-on-one or small group settings. Be sure to check out their open studio nights to explore all the space has to offer. fosterartforall.com
The Glass Palette
Charlottesville, VA
Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection of UVA
Charlottesville, VA
Lazy Daisy Ceramics
Charlottesville, VA
IX Art Park
Charlottesville, VA
McGuffey Art Center
Charlottesville, VA
This downtown Charlottesville institution is one of the oldest artist-cooperatives in the country, housing 45+ renting artists within the building and 100+ artists within the art center’s association. In addition to exhibitions, the space offers workshops and special events as well. The Friday Night Art events feature open studios, mini workshops, demos, dance performances, music, refreshments and more for the community to enjoy. mcguffeyartcenter.com
The Scrappy Elephant
Charlottesville, VA
The Scrappy Elephant aims to encourage creativity while reducing waste by keeping unwanted art and craft materials out of the landfill, and give them back to the community at affordable prices through their store and studio. The space offers classes, camps, and a versatile professional photography studio designed to fit a variety of needs. If a needle and thread is more your speed, The Scrappy Elephant also features sewing classes and supplies.
scrappyelephant.com
Virginia Museum of Fine Art
Richmond, VA
These artsy daytrip and outing ideas are sure to get those creative juices flowing. Be sure to check websites for special programing and events before you make plans to visit. Looking for more daytrip and activity ideas? Check out the Family Fun section of our site for endless possibilities and the best local suggestions. A family favorite is our CharlottesvilleFamily Guide to Virginia’s Best Children’s Museums.
DANIEL ROCHA is a graduate of UVA who enjoys exploring and writing about the unique opportunities afforded by the Charlottesville area.
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