SCCA's ‘Artists in the Schools’ initiative is back in a BIG way!
Our popular Outreach Program, launched on 2024, continues to focus on inclusion and diversity within our local communities. Building upon the application of awareness months in our previous program, this year, we will focus on different calendar themes that will help provide appreciation for aspects of our society that deserve attention.
ARTISTS in the SCHOOLS
Art in Motion: From Roots to Evolution
A Visiting Artist Program for Schools | Grades 3–8
Bring the studio into the classroom with Art in Motion, an exciting new program that connects students to the rich history of global art forms and their bold transformation in contemporary art today.
Each 1.5-hour session is led by a professional visiting artist and features:
- A dynamic introduction to a traditional art form (like beading, graffiti, weaving, or batik), including its cultural origins and historical uses.
- A look at how these art forms are being used in powerful, innovative ways by contemporary artists.
- A hands-on art-making session, where students create and take home their own inspired artwork.
This program is available from October 2025 through April 2026.
Beading: Threads of Identity
Beadwork has its roots in Indigenous and African traditions, where beads were used for storytelling, ceremonial garments, and cultural preservation. Students will learn how today’s contemporary artists use beading to reclaim heritage, address identity, and make bold statements in galleries and public spaces.
Printmaking: The People’s Press
Graffiti & Street Art: Writing on the Wall
From ancient Roman scribbles to the rise of graffiti during the birth of hip-hop, this lesson traces how writing on walls became a powerful voice for youth and resistance. The lesson highlights how street art has evolved into a respected art form, used by contemporary artists to address urban identity, social justice, and public engagement.
Weaving: Woven Worlds
: This lesson introduces students to the global history of weaving as both a utilitarian craft and a cultural practice, as well as its evolution to becoming a Fine Art form. The session explores how contemporary fiber artists use weaving as a medium for storytelling, environmental awareness, and socio-political commentary.
Batik & Fabric Dyeing: Patterns of the Past
This lesson explores the intricate dyeing techniques of batik and wax-resist art from Indonesia, West Africa, and India. Students will learn how this art form is being reimagined in contemporary fashion, abstraction, and multimedia textile art.
To book the Suffolk Center’s ‘Artists in the Schools’ program please contact Ishta Hurtado Suarez, Education and Community Outreach Manager, at: ishta.hurtado@SuffolkCenter.org
What you need to know about our Artists in Schools Program:
- Our Program is available to schools, private, home, parochial, and public.
- Art Instructors will provide all necessary activity-specific supplies and materials, but may request to use basic classroom supplies like scissors, tape, pencils, etc.
- Art instructors may have extensive experience in teaching students of all grade levels and will adapt all classes appropriately, depending on grade level.
- If the number of students surpasses 15, we ask you to please inform this to us in advance to make the necessary arrangements.