Last week I facilitated a Coloring Book program at my local library and it was a huge success. Around 30 folks joined in the fun. I want to share how things went and what I brought along. Maybe you'll call your local library and volunteer your services.
I brought a variety of coloring materials: colored pencils, spectrum noir markers, regular markers of every type, gel pens, colored pens. I put a set of each type of media in a cup. AC Moore had coloring books for 5 bucks each I grabbed a couple of those.
I cut the pages from the coloring books and as everyone was coming in they were invited to choose a page and a media.
Lots of people were very timid, wondering which media and page were best for beginners. Some folks had arthritis and I was glad to have the large markers for them. My facilitation was really just to encourage a relaxed attitude and give permission.
This little cutie pie needed no permission (she snuck in with her mom and aunt ;) and was an excellent example. Later in the class, I walked Susan's coloring (see the first photo) around and pointed out the different media she was mixing. It was important to show that Susan was not being "SUPER CAREFUL" and even went outside the lines now and then.
It was a fantastic evening. Everyone left feeling empowered about their ability to make a little art. You may be able to scrounge up the materials. I am wondering if your local library and art center could partner up to help you pull off a program. Talk to them. Make some community.
Love this idea! This is a great way to meet new people too!
Posted by: Emie | 02/01/2016 at 06:55 AM
My local library has an adult coloring class scheduled for next Monday afternoon. Since you and I are in the same county library system, Diana, I'm thinking that your idea has spread throughout the system.
Posted by: Barbara M | 02/01/2016 at 08:54 AM
What a fun idea! A great way for people to have fun, relax and connect with others in their community.
Posted by: Traci Bunkers | 02/01/2016 at 11:35 AM
I wonder if your library would be interested? Or art center? I just went to a free fiber arts night at the art center
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Posted by: Diana Trout | 02/01/2016 at 04:10 PM
Jeez. I was going to contact all the close libraries. I better snap to!
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Posted by: Diana Trout | 02/01/2016 at 04:11 PM
It was great for that! One participant was a childhood friend!
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Posted by: Diana Trout | 02/01/2016 at 04:13 PM
If your local Library isn't already hosting a coloring program, hit them up! It's an excellent idea!
- A Librarian who's planning just such a program
Posted by: Nancy Wirt | 02/02/2016 at 08:30 PM
That is exactly what happened! I use to work there and still do art programs. The director asked me to do this program. I hope I was able to help you a little in your planning.
Posted by: Diana Trout | 02/02/2016 at 08:42 PM
Please tell Susan i love the the colors she chose and the patterns. I want to go! I am so jealous! Sadly, i have no free time at this point. I would love to connect with real creative people in my area. It gives me something to look forward to. You are an angel to be so free with your time.
Posted by: Stacy | 02/02/2016 at 09:00 PM
Thanks Stacy. I will pass that on to Susan. I wish that I could more free with my time. I’m paid for the library programs. They have budgets for programming. You could look into that. I wish I had the time to do more esp at the library where the programs are free for people.
Posted by: Diana Trout | 02/03/2016 at 08:38 AM
Well done ! Inspiring.
Posted by: Marsha | 05/04/2016 at 01:34 PM