Long before children learn to speak, they express themselves artistically, and possess a seemingly intrinsic desire to leave their mark in the world. They create on just about any surface they can find, some more irritating than others (see: crayons on walls, markers on younger siblings’ faces, playing with food), but it all just speaks to a small mind processing big emotions in a giant world.

Yet this desire to create is not only a means of self-discovery, it also has direct correlations with the child’s development, affecting everything from civic engagement, empathy, and broader points of view later in life. Unfortunately, as we grow up, logic gradually replaces imagination, work time swallows up play time, and many of us lose the spark that inspires creativity and passion.

However if artistic abilities and appreciation are nurtured early on, a person can stave off the crushing defeat of a world ruled by more “practical pursuits.”

With this in mind, every Wednesday beginning September 25 (through December 4), bacaARTCENTRE will conduct weekly creative art classes from 17:00-19:30, for children aged 7 to 16. The standard price for a single course is RMB 350, though early bird prices are offered at RMB 280 if the student is registered one week before. Similarly, six and 12 week packages are available at RMB 1,590 and RMB 2,980 respectively. All classes are to be held at bacaARTCENTRE, located near Yonghe Temple in Unit 125, Level One, Yonghe Tower B, Beijing (北京市东城区雍和大厦B座125室). While a basic understanding of English is required, a Chinese assistant will be on site to help learners of varying degrees.

Charlie Dutton; Contemporary Artist, Curator, and Art Educator

Led by Charlie Dutton and Liam Yeates, two British artists trained in art education, as well as South African designer, Monique van Zyl, the program hopes to “improve children’s talent in painting, drawing, and English level as well as their imagination, observational skills, and thinking.” In addition to painting and drawing, kids can also learn the processes behind 3D modeling and printing, providing a multidisciplinary approach to creation.

For more information, and to register for courses, please go here.  

Photos: Artclassesaustin.com, bacaARTCENTRE