A banner year for at-home art

Every spring, the light poles in Newport’s Nye Beach district become even brighter when they become home to original art banners, destined for auction in the fall.

From now through June 5, the Oregon Coast Council for the Arts is offering Art-to-Go kits for kids and families throughout Lincoln County to be part of this community project.

In this engaging learning activity, students create tiles of canvas banners that become works of public art. Each participating student receives a banner section and paints both sides — one side has an outline to be followed and the other side has a theme that can be freely interpreted. When brought together, the different students’ works will resemble a mosaic on one side and a quilt on the other. The group banners will then be included with the other banners on display.

The Art-to-Go kits, designed for children six through 18, promote creative, project-based learning opportunities and include written instructions and all required materials, including one banner tile, six acrylic paint colors, a paint brush and a mini-banner for students to paint and keep.

A suggested donation of $15 per kit is requested for the kits, which can be picked up at the Newport Visual Arts Center, 777 NW Beach Drive, Wednesdays and Saturdays from noon to 4 pm, or by appointment at the VAC’s main entrance. Reservations are recommended.

For more information, email ssiggelkow@coastarts.org or call 541-574-3364.