By Josie Osborne, Campus News Editor
Last week was National Arts in Education Week, a week focusing on integrating the arts into learning and discovering how creativity can enhance education.
In collaboration with the Dade City Center for the Arts, The Hugh Embry Library in Dade City celebrated National Arts in Education Week from Sept. 9 through the 14, hosting events like socials, story times, and crafts. They also decorated their bookshelves with art from the community, bringing color and life into the quiet space.
From the twenty-three artists who showcased their work, there was a variety of mediums and materials, from classic oil paintings and pottery to wood burning, knitting, and recycled-item sculpture. The library also hosted a Meet-and-Greet where the artists could talk to the community about their artistic process and styles.
The branch manager of the Hugh Embry Library, Danielle Lee, was thrilled about the week’s outcome and what it meant for Dade City.
Lee said, “We wanted to let those who create and enjoy the arts know that we see them and appreciate what they do best: inspire.”
“The art we displayed was just a small sampling of the talent we have in our community,” said Lee. “And the programs we hosted this week brought new experiences to our community, bringing together those of all ages to try something new and exciting.”
Each age group had their own activities, making the week inclusive for everyone. For kids, there were two activities, Toddler and Preschool Storytimes, focused on art exploration, and a Kids’Art Corner where the children could create with pearler beads.
For teens and tweens, the events were Teen Yarn Art and Pre-Teen Pearler Bead Art. While most of the events were tailored to adults and young adults, such as Coffee and Floral Design, Retro Crafting, Clay Works: Create Your Own Coaster, and much more, there are always chances for new events next year.
Lucy Avila, the President of Dade City’s Center for the Arts, expressed her delight with the week, inspiring excitement for the next National Arts in Education Week.
“We are looking forward to working with the library next year for our 3rd Annual National Arts in Education Week,” said Avila. “We encourage artists of all ages to join us.”
To keep an eye out for more fun events at the Hugh Embry Library, visit their webpage at pascolibraries.org. To learn more about the Dade City Center for the Arts, explore their website at dadecityarts.com.
