NYCMER Conference 2018: Say It Loud!

On May 21, 2018 I presented a workshop at the NYCMER Annual Conference that that focused on addressing social and political issues with families through art. How can we engage families with young children in art making activities that confront some of the most pressing social and political issues of our time? Artists often make artworks as a form of protest, or critique but how do we harness the power of these ideas and connect it to families, enabling them to create their own meaning?

Workshop participants explored examples of projects that address issues including discrimination, gender inequality, and climate change. Then, inspired by the work of Whitney Biennial artist Cauleen Smith, attendees created banners using symbols and words to communicate a message about an issue important to them.