Evanga Studios Donna Vokes

What is ArtSTART

ArtSTART is run by Evanga Studios. ArtSTART is a project running under the umbrella of Evanga Studios that provides art workshops for young people and their families after school and at weekends. The project aims to nurture creative self expression from as young as 5 and provide advice and resources such as careers advice for young people as continue their arts interest into adulthood.
What are the benefits of ArtSTART?

What are the Benefits?

ArtStart not only gives children more access to time and materials, but provides an environment that stimulates creativity, nurtures talent and self identity. To support local families, sessions are held in village halls in and around Winchester. More venues will be coming soon. (If you have any suggestions, please let us know) In doing this we hope to instill sense of community for children and their peers.

Artstart is not just about nurturing creative talent nor does it encourage ‘good’ or ‘bad’ art – There is no such thing. We don’t view art as a competitive activity, but one that allows participants the opportunity to experiment, play and discover how to express themselves visually as well as learning how to use art as a tool for communication using materials that may not be easily available at home or school.

How is it different to other art clubs?

ArtSTART sessions work differently to most art clubs and workshops. Various materials, equipment and activities are brought in and laid out on different tables allowing children to try lots of different things at their own choice and in their own time. Some activities such as print making do require demonstration so we have a mini workshops running along side. Sessions and workshops are led by practising artist, Donna Vokes who will give demonstrations and talk about the materials she will be using to support the children and adults in making their own artwork. We ask those booking a sessions to let us know what activities they would most like to do as we endevour to cater for all.

Why are the activities family based?

ArtSTART provides an opportunity for parents to aid in their child’s creative development and pass on their own life skills and knowledge. ArtSTART believes that art fuels youngsters’ creativity and stimulates their minds. Early exposure to visual art, music or drama promotes activity in the brain and provides young people with skills they will need as adults. Participating in art activities help children gain the tools necessary for understanding human experience, adapting to and respecting others’ way of working and thinking, developing creative problem-solving skills, and communicating thoughts and ideas in a variety of ways. Art Education develops self-esteem and self expression, as well as appreciation for the work of others. It also develops critical thinking skills that will be important as young people continue their education and as they enter the working world. With the right environment and support children will become more confident, inspired and open to learning new things. Children will find out what they like and don’t like, discover what their inspirations are and learn a wide range of skills and techniques.

How can I get my family involved?

Visit our WebBlog at www.artstart123.wordpress.com. Alternativly select the link in the links section. Session dates and booking forms are avaliable there. You can email Donna Vokes at donnavokes@hotmail.com to be put on the ArtSTART mailing list.