Art is at the Heart of Creativity

Kayla, an Abrakadoodle artist from Austin, paints her crown during art camp.

Have you ever seen the gleeful expression on a child who has created a piece of art that did not exist in the world before? It’s pure magic. A blank sketchpad represents a playground for a child’s imagination. Equipped with pencils, crayons, markers or paint, children can draw from their own ideas, experiences and feelings to express themselves. Whether your child is a natural or reluctant doodler, creative art classes, camps and workshops can help him or her to develop additional art skills, build confidence and spark further imaginative artworks.

Much has been said about the importance of creativity for our children to compete in a global economy that rewards innovation. Art is at the heart of creativity, which is why receiving instruction and encouraging artistic expression helps children to adopt the role of the innovator. Equipped with the ability to create and problem-solve through art, children can extend this ability into other facets of their lives and academic challenges. It begins with fostering curiosity – what happens when I mix these colors? How can I transform these lines and shapes into the picture I imagine? How will I use my newly developed skills in fabric art, collage, and sculpting to create something wonderful and new? By encouraging your children to make art and to participate in creativity-boosting art programs, you are helping to pave your child’s path as an innovator. So, have a heart and encourage art!

Outreaching the Recession

Abrakadoodle cofounders Rosemarie Hartnett & Mary Rogers flank Charmaine Khaw, Master Licensor from Singapore

The stifling grip of the economic downturn ignited the imaginations of Abrakadoodle Remarkable Art co-founders Mary Rogers and Rosemarie Hartnett. The duo expanded outreach of their creative children’s art programs to Asia, which continues to have a positive impact on the company. Their story is currently featured in a Wall Street Journal contest highlighting innovators.

Readers can vote once each week for their favorite entries between September 12 and September 30. The Reader’s Choice winner will be revealed when the Journal’s special report is published November 21. Rate & Like Abrakadoodle’s story.