Young Artists

Young artists in Abrakadoodle discover their own personal creativity in our art classes and art programs. A new sense of empowerment emerges when children create something new that did not exist in the world yesterday. Abrakadoodle is all about creativity and originality!

Some of our students become award-winning young artists. It’s exciting to see all children explore a variety of materials and techniques and become truly engaged in the process of learning. Equally exciting is when our students discover an interest or talent that they didn’t know existed.

This was the case with seven-year old Luke Koehler of Reisterstown, Maryland. Although Luke was tentative about taking an art class, his mom Jill enrolled him in Abrakadoodle while he was in Kindergarten. According to Jill, Abrakadoodle ignited his interest in art. Motivated by what he learned, he began checking out books from the school library and drew everything from people to dinosaurs. Luke also continued taking advanced drawing classes at Abrakadoodle in first grade.

During first grade, Luke was diagnosed with type one Juvenile Diabetes. While in treatment at Johns Hopkins Hospital, he was approached about submitting artwork for the Jos. A. Banks “Miracle Tie” contest. Even though Christmas had passed, Luke opted to draw a picture of Santa Clause and a Christmas tree. Christmas was very special for Luke’s family because he was able to remind himself and his family what really mattered and made him happy during a very challenging time. Luke’s winning entry was entitled, “Santa Delivers.” A line of silk neckties inspired by Luke and several other pediatric patients was unveiled at the 12 th annual “Tie into a Miracle” fashion show. The ties are available online and in Jos. A Bank Clothiers stores nationwide, with all proceeds benefiting the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center.

A big Star Wars fan, Luke has shown that he can wield a paintbrush and other art tools instead of a light saber as he continues to draw upon his own imagination and courageous spirit to battle diabetes. We salute this talented young artist!