8:30am

The Taj Mahal, known as one of the “Seven Wonders of the World," the Red Fort of Agra, as well as the Golden Temple, and Qutub Minar are all grand examples of the Mughal empire which ruled India for 200 years. Work with artist Laurie Witzkowski to unlock the wonders of these structures. Then design and construct a modern building incorporating your own ideas and unique elements from these buildings.

10:15am

Elephants are not only a cultural icon in India and throughout Asia,they also help to maintain the integrity of the forest and grassland habitats. Learn about the environmental challenges Asian elephants face and what the people of India are doing about it. Work with artist Lisa Himmelstrup to create a clay sculpture, a container, and small amulet incorporating images of the Asian elephant. Additional $10 material fee.

For ages 9-12.

8:30am

Artist Shakun Maheshwari introduces you to India through art, dance, and story. Learn about traditional Indian dress, foods, celebrations like the Festival of Light or Divali, and the importance of the Ganges River considered the most sacred river in India. Create a mandala, henna art, and more.

10:15am

Kathputli is the Indian name for “string puppet theatre.” Native to Rajasthan in northern India, it is the most popular form of Indian puppetry. Work with artist Julie Boada to create your own marionette puppet and join the ArtStart puppet troupe to retell a favorite Indian fable.

For ages 9-12.

8:30am

India is known for its colorful paper and fabric lanterns. Get inspired by the beautiful star-shaped pieces commonly displayed during Diwali, and the fabric ones known in Rajasthan. Then work with artist Tara Fahey to create your own vibrant vessels of light to decorate your room.

10:15am

Kathputli is the Indian name for “string puppet theater.” Native to Rajasthan in northern India, it is the most popular form of Indian puppetry. Work with Gustavo Boada to create your own marionette puppet and join the ArtStart puppet troupe to retell a favorite Indian fable.

For ages 9-12.

12:30pm

Rajasthan in northern India is the main center for brass engraving. Traditional designs and floral patterns are hammered or embossed on the surface of the metal. Work with artist Gustavo Boada to learn the technique of embossing. Then incorporate traditional Indian designs and create a beautiful photo frame or box wrapped in metal. Additional $10 materials fee.

2:15pm

Some of the best known Indian folk paintings are the Mithila paintings from the Madhubani region of Bihar state in northeast India. For centuries the women of Mithila have decorated the walls of their houses with these intricate paintings. Work with artist Melodee Strong to draw and paint your own Mithila inspired piece.

For ages 9-12.

12:30pm

Originally associated with dance traditions, the tabla is now used in a variety of genres and styles of Hindustani music. Tabla can be documented in India from the late 18th century, though some believe the origin can be traced to the indigenous ancient civilization. Join Jeanette Dickinson to make your own tabla with a variety of fun materials. Additional $10 materials fee. 

2:15pm

Some of the best known Indian folk paintings are the Mithila paintings from the Madhubani region of Bihar state in northeast India. For centuries the women of Mithila have decorated the walls of their houses with these intricate paintings. Work with artist Karen Anderson to draw and paint your own Mithila inspired piece.

For ages 9-12.

12:30pm

Join Chicago-based performing artist Krissy Bergmark to learn about Indian classical music of the north! In this fun interactive class, you will play clapping games, try out tabla, and explore storytelling through rhythm and gestures. Learn the different names for sounds played on tabla and how to count basic teentaal.

2:15pm

In India beaded embroidery, Moochi Aari or just Aari, is a popular way to decorate garments and other furnishings. Join artist Julie Boada as she teaches the technique of using a special needle to apply beads, pearls, and sequins to fabric. Then using the Aari technique create your own special Indian inspired design on fabric. 

For ages 9-12.