RiggsElementary School

What is Art Masterpiece?

Art Masterpiece is an enrichment program where volunteers use reproductions of fine works of art to promote art literacy in children. Art is an integral part of life and the Art Masterpiece Program is a chance to stimulate the students' thought, perception and imagination. In the end, students attain a greater awareness of the world around them. Volunteers called "Art Guides" bring prints to the classroom and present a lesson and art activity planned for a particular grade level.

Is art education really important?

I would like to be a guide ... but I don't know much about art. Is that a problem?

Art Guides do not have to be former art majors, teachers, or even well-versed in art. Qualities such as reliability and enthusiasm are more important in our Art Guides than artistic ability.  Art Masterpiece is one of the few volunteer programs were you can teach in your child's classroom. Because of this, Art Guides need a sense of commitment and must be willing to devote a small portion of their time each month. In return, they receive gratification for bringing Art Education to appreciative and interested students.

Is there training for Art Guides?

Training is provided before assignment to a classroom. Training classes will be held at local schools with additional sessions throughout the year. We also provide opportunities for volunteers to observe a class before they commit to a specific classroom.

What are the lessons like?

Art Masterpiece lessons and supplies are provided for volunteers and taught on a monthly basis, with a total of six lessons per year. They last an hour, with most of that hour dedicated to a hands-on art activity related directly to the artist or art style studied that month.  The purpose of our program is to increase awareness and appreciation of art. This is done by introducing various elements of art and principles of design in fun ways the children can easily grasp.

Examples of Art Masterpiece Curriculum

Artist: Unknown Artwork: Lascaux Cave Art Art Vocabulary: Texture, Line

Artist: Wayne Thiebaud Artwork: Ice Cream Cones Art Vocabulary: Shape, Texture

 Second Grade

Artist: Vincent van Gogh Artwork: Starry Night Art Vocabulary: Movement, Contrasting Color

 Third Grade

Artist: Victor Vasarely Artwork: Art Vocabulary: Op Art

 Fourth Grade

Artist: Philip Dike Artwork: Copper, 1936 Art Vocabulary: Repouse

 Fifth Grade

Artist: Dale Chihuly Artwork: Blown Glass Flowers Art Vocabulary: Organic Shape

 Sixth Grade

Artist: Tao Chi Artwork: Bamboo in Wind and Rain Art Vocabulary: Ink and brush