Water Works – New Art Program at Nature Center

CAPE MAY — Water Works, a new art program at the Nature Center of Cape May, will explore water as an art medium. The program will run Thursdays, April 29 – June 3 from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. and is for children ages 9 and up.
Children will be inspired by the artwork of Andy Goldsworthy and Robert Smithson with local artist/teacher Janet Payne.
“Considering that 70 percent of the Earth’s surface is water and about 60 percent of the human body is water it seems that water is worthy of more exploration. Water is a pretty amazing stuff, its molecules stick together to form surface tension that allows insects to literally walk on water,” explains Payne. “Of course, we will probably get wet, but it will be fun experimenting with drops, drips, fountains and bending water.”
After question based experiments with water, students will use their understanding of the scientific principles of water; cohesion, adhesion, surface tension and capillary action, to create an environmental conceptual work of art. Professional photographer, Tina Giaimo, will introduce the students to techniques they can use to photograph their artwork. There will be a “WaterWorks” art show of the at the Nature Center where the community can view the photographs and the artists can discuss their inspiration. The date of the opening reception will be June 18.
Space is limited for this program and pre-registration is required. For more information and fees call or stop by the Nature Center of Cape May, 1610 Delaware Ave., 609-898-8848.
The Nature Center of Cape May was founded in 1992 and Adopted by the New Jersey Audubon Society in 1995, with the twin goals of creating a responsible stewardship program for open space surrounding Cape May Harbor and providing environmental education for people of all ages.
The Center’s focus on “hands-on” activities reflects a philosophy of personal responsibility for education. The nature center offers a full schedule of natural history programs for the general public throughout the year. A wide variety of group educational programs are available as well, either at the Nature Center of Cape May or at alternate sites such as outdoor habitats, schools, or clubs.Photo caption: “What’s in a drop of water?” A new art program at the Nature Center will help kids explore water as art.
photo credit: Janet Payne