Putting ‘art’ in Hartselle
Camp Art’selle students participate in the performance of “Come Together” last week. This performance was a culmination of the events of the annual art camp at Hartselle Fine Arts Center. | Randy Garrison
Camp helps youths find their place in world of art
Seventy-one children between the ages of six and 11 spent four days of their summer at Hartselle Art Center last week finding their place in the world of arts.
As Camp Art’selle campers, they split their time between drawing, dancing, singing and acting and brought all of the pieces together in a musical production, “Come Together” for the entertainment of their parents and other family members on Thursday evening.
The campers were divided into four groups and alternated from one classroom to the next getting hands-on experience in four different art disciplines—painting/sculpture, drama, dance and music. Each group had four adult leaders, and they were assisted by about 30 youth volunteers, most of whom were former Camp Art’selle participants.
When asked what the camp means to the kids, Co-Director Michael Ballew, who also directed art classes, said: “The first day I ask every child who thinks he or she is an artist to raise their hand. About one-fourth of them will raise a hand. I ask them the same question on the last day of camp and 100 percent of them will raise their hand and shout ’I’m an artist!’”
“They discover during camp that they have talents and abilities they may not have realized they had before,” Ballew stated, “and by getting involved in the arts they can have fun with it.”
He pointed out that working together as a group they learned five different songs and the dances that go with them, in addition to some skits.
These were featured at their musical production.
Nia Brewer said camp was a lot of fun and it taught kids you could do anything you want to do.
“I really liked art and music, too,” said Ben Griffin. “It was also fun being with all of the other kids.”
“I liked everything about camp,” added Davis Routh.” especially music. “It’s really a lot of fun.”
Youth volunteer Rachel McKelvy said she enjoys working with campers and seeing them demonstrate their talents.
“It really make me feel good to see the big smiles on their faces when they do something they’ve never done before,” she pointed out.
“There’s something for everyone in the arts,” said youth volunteer Cape Sandlin, “no matter if it’s acting out a part in a play or working off-stage. I like being a part of something that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.”
In art class, students were introduced to two artists: Alexander Calder and Andy Warhol and were assigned projects in line with what both artists specialized in. They painted pop art and made wire people using aluminum wire.
Youth volunteers Jaime McKelvey, Joshua Rhodes and Hunter King were welcome additions to music classes. They formed a band called “The Triple A” and played music and sang for the entertainment of campers.
