The next generation of artists

By Sherry Larson

People’s Defender

Color our world with the imagination of a child. The Adams County Arts Council and JR Bradley Arts Camp at West Union Elementary School always amazes this reporter. Talented instructors and curious, creative youth are always sure to make a colorful combination.

This year was no different and the new tie-dye and fiber arts programs added even more bursts of bold hues and textures. The theme this year centered around Ohio Artists. Camp Director Elaine Lafferty made an informational display to give participants an idea of the rich artistry that exists in their home state.

Thirty-nine students participated in this year’s camp, which included drawing, creative writing, fiber arts, tie-dye, sculpture and drama/music. This year’s group did not include painters, which was an unusual twist from past camps.

The camp teachers included Elaine Lafferty, who taught Art Appreciation; Trina Stapleton, who taught Drawing; Gracie Roades, who taught Sculpture; Sarah Purdon Rigdon and McKenna Malcolm, who taught Tie-Dye; Lee Willson, who taught Drama; Kirsten West, who taught Fiber Art and Margaret Blevins, who taught Creative Writing.

The newly added fiber arts program, initially with only two students, saw a heartwarming development as the week progressed. Lafferty shared that more students developed a growing interest, leading to a larger group participating in sewing, weaving, and textural art. The popularity of Tie-Dye was evident in the impressive end-of-week display, with students proudly showcasing their varicolored creations.

Lafferty is thankful for the camp’s supporters and especially mentioned West Union Elementary custodian, Jay Fetters, who she said, “Has been a godsend all these years.” Fetters does his best to accommodate the needs of the students and instructors for their week of art classes.

The camp concluded with an exhibit of Ohio artists, fine art, and a musical play about a great American pioneer – Johnny Appleseed. Lafferty enjoyed sharing author Julie Salamon’s background of growing up in Adams County. Salamon is a New York Times best-selling author of books for adults and children. Her most recent children’s book, One More Story, Tata, was released this month.

The JR Bradley Art Camp, named after its originator, is free for children ages 9-16. The Arts Council is a nonprofit organization serving Adams County and the surrounding areas. “The purpose of the ACAC is to enhance the quality of life by encouraging and stimulating the practice and appreciation of the arts.”

Although JR Bradley passed away last year, his legacy lives on through the art and imagination of Adams County youth. Let’s encourage and inspire the next generation of artists, pick up your palette and color our world.