THUNDER BAY – Emily Hamill believes all children have the capability of art within themselves.
That’s why she ensures her children are exposed to the arts at young ages.
Hamill, along with daughters Claire and Plum, attended the Thunder Bay Art Gallery’s family activities on Sunday afternoon.
“I think kids are inherently creative and are inherently artists,” she said. “I think that should be encouraged.”
About 100 people were expected to pass through the gallery throughout the afternoon.
Art gallery educator Vivian Wood-Alexander said the event is held twice throughout the year and is designed especially for families.
Children had the opportunity to participate in a number of different activities, such as an exhibit search and find, sculpting, watercolour drawing and constructing a race car snack.
“We’re having the kids be inventive in some of the activities they’re doing,” Wood-Alexander said.
“They come for about 45 minutes to an hour and it’s just a great way to enjoy art together as a family.”
The kids found the opportunity to do hands-on work and exploration with the art is more rewarding than a typical gallery experience.
“I think this artwork in particular is attractive for kids. If there’s something that involves interaction they’re going to be more engaged and maybe appreciate that more than if they’re just looking at paintings on a wall,” Hamill said.
