Youth are invited to explore creativity where art and music meet in this hands-on workshop inspired by the work of Armenian American artist's Arshile Gorky and Serj Tankian. Guided by artist Alik Arzoumanian and musician Raffi Donoian, participants will discover how abstract expressionism can move across mediums from paint and color to rhythm and sound.
The program begins with a short gallery tour, followed by two breakout workshops where students will either create their own abstract paintings with Alik or explore guitar techniques and improvisation with Raffi. The session concludes with a group sharing and reflection on how music and visual art can both express emotion and imagination.
Group I with Alik: 1st- 5th graders (6-11 years old)
Group II with Raffi: 6th- 12th graders (12-17 years old)
Group I: After a guided tour of the Arshile Gorky: Redrawing Community and Connections exhibition, students will engage in a hands-on workshop exploring the principles of Abstract Expressionism. Through discussion and creative experimentation, they will create an abstract artwork that reflects their personality or conveys the emotions of a meaningful moment and place they wish to share.
Group II: After a guided tour of The Art of Disruption: The Art and Impact of Serj Tankian, students will explore sound, rhythm, and story through interactive music and drawing. Surrounded by diverse Armenian art, they discover the interplay of how music and art can inspire each other.
This event is free.
Alik Arzoumanian is a picture book author, illustrator, and educator based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She has many years of experience teaching art to preschoolers and elementary school students. Recently, she was selected as one of five artists in the inaugural Artist-in-Residence cohort at the Mosesian Center for the Arts in Watertown, MA.
Raffi Donoian is an accomplished guitarist hailing from New England, has successfully transcended geographical boundaries and captivated audiences across the globe through his pioneering endeavors in exploring the potential of emerging digital media platforms. By pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and technological innovation, Raffi has effectively harnessed the power of these novel mediums to connect with diverse audiences worldwide.
Part of the Music in Color initiative, this engaging program encourages experimentation, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for Armenian cultural arts.
Sponsored by: Nancy R. Kolligian