February 5 - February 27, 2010
Opening Reception: First Friday, February 5, 5-9pm
Claymobile Creations Artists Reception: Sunday, February 21, 1-3pm
The Clay Studio's annual Claymobile Creations exhibition, now in it's fifteenth year, features work made by students (K-12) that participated in the Claymobile Program from nearly every zip code in Philadelphia.
Founded in 1994, the Claymobile program partners with schools, community-based organizations, and social service agencies around the Philadelphia region to provide disadvantaged youth with innovative, hands-on approaches to learning that strengthen and enhance existing cultural programming, supplement educational curricula, and serve as a catalyst for community engagement. Today, the Claymobile is considered one of the most cost-effective K-12 educational opportunities in the area, and has become a model for similar programs offered around the country.
The Claymobile is 100% mobile, and comes equipped with everything needed to turn a classroom space into a fully functioning ceramics studio; we bring knowledgeable artists, clay, tools, glazes and even our mops to clean up the mess. The program prides itself on being able to work virtually anywhere. Classes meet weekly for 90-minutes over a minimum of 6 consecutive weeks, exposing students to varied techniques and allowing them to master skills. By the end of their residency, each child leaves with an increased sense of community and arts engagement; an expanded awareness and acceptance of diverse cultures; and an enhanced interest in learning, in the arts and in general.
There is no better way to describe the impact that The Claymobile program can have on students than to hear from the teachers that work with us. In the words of Janet Candura, 6th grade Earth Science Teacher, Independence Charter School "What was most exciting for me as a teacher was that this program truly touched every single one of my students. Students who have trouble sitting still were absolutely engaged, students who are ESL were able to shatter their language barrier, students who struggle with other aspects of school were able to shine, and those who need to have an extra challenge were able to excel. This program reached all of my students in an extraordinary way!"
