Dearest Readers -
In the heart of downtown Erie, nestled amongst the busy streets and idyllic flower gardens, stands the Inner-City Neighborhood Art House.
Outside, the city awoke from its long winter slumber. Inside, the Art House was prepared for a flurry of summer classes where students explored various artistic mediums in the visual and performing arts, as well as classes in environmental education.
Before long, the students molded slabs of clay into mythical creatures, painted spectacular starry night skies, and fashioned garden sculptures from recycled materials. They learned how to play the drums, danced to an array of music, and prepared meals using fresh local produce. They explored the world of digital character design and even allowed their unique personalities to shine through during creative writing class.
During the interlude between classes, the Hooked on Books for Kids program took place. It was a special time when volunteers read stories aloud to the students. As one volunteer explained, “as soon as you opened the book, their eyes widened with anticipation, and they eagerly soaked in every word. It was in those moments that you became their guide through a magical world filled with the power of imagination. It was an absolute joy to know that you nurtured not only their reading skills but introduced a lifelong love of learning.”
By the end of summer, both the students and volunteers alike, found inspiration, growth, discovery, and boundless creativity within the walls of the Neighborhood Art House.
Yours Truly,
Lady Whistlenote
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