Monarch School Art Center: Grand Opening

Celebrate, 8x10” Ink Encaustic on Wood Panel Lauren LeVieux

Monarch School, San Diego is designed to meet the needs of unhoused children- their educational, emotional, and their need to create art. I, along with other local artists, recently led a series of workshops to allow these children to explore the idea of metamorphosis using art supplies. I brought some of my favorites: hot wax, wood panels, India ink, mica gold ink, oil paint and a griddle. I watched them think about their stories of turning points and I watched them enter into their art just as I do. I watched the teachers allow these children freedom to move about, and make choices about materials. I watched a teacher sit with 3 children- one who had been punched at recess, one who had punched, and one witness. He sat with them to talk it out and to model ways of communication, negotiation, understanding and forgiveness. These skills are not taught on the street or in most schools. I felt honored to spend just a few hours at this school.

Come to Monarch’s Art Center the Chrysalis Grand Opening May 11-13 2022. Click here for all the info and to RSVP.