Sun editorial: Brushing up on art in the Valley

With the possibility of losing half an art program on the table due to a tight budget, it is nice to see programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters taking some initiative to bring art education to children.

For four days in April, artist Sarah Fagan of Portland, Ore., coordinated with Big Brothers Big Sisters to bring some of her art curriculum to the Hub in Saratoga.

During that time, children had the opportunity to learn how to make books and paints, projects that build problem-solving skills while, at the same, time building creativity, Fagan said.

According to Sarah Lincoln, an activity coordinator for Big Brothers Big Sisters, the organization is trying to build a relationship with Brush Creek Ranch to continue to bring skilled artists for hands-on art education.

In a time where art is considered to be an important part of a child’s education, the Saratoga Sun has to tip its hat to Big Brothers Big Sisters for taking on such a task.

We encourage other organizations throughout the Valley to follow Big Brothers Big Sisters and find creative ways to ensure children of all ages can experience art, whether it is creating it or experiencing it.

Art education isn’t just a school’s job. Children can experience art at home, very easily. All a child needs to be creative is a combination of paper, pens, pencils, markers, paints and other art supplies.

With evolving technology, children can also use computers, with adult permission, to create.

Saratoga was recently recognized as one of 12 top art places in the United States, indicating many residents in the Valley tag a high value on art.

With so many stakeholders in art throughout the Valley, more parents and organizations should show their support for art education by giving children the tools to express themselves, even if that tool is a pencil or crayon.