“I love it!”
“I want it in my house!”
“No way!”
“I just don’t get it.”

These were phrases heard in the Kirby Kids’ Art Gallery Antics class Monday afternoon. The Kirby Kids program is an extension of the Warren County Public Library’s summer reading program. This year, the theme is “Be Creative”.

Today, children were encouraged to “be creative” through two art-themed exercises. First, the children were given 4 tickets - each with a phrase of approval or disapproval.

Several paintings were hung along the walls of the classroom. Each child went around the classroom and placed a ticket under each painting. Afterwards, children got to explain why they “Loved it!” or just “didn’t get it”.

“I like the wavy lines and stars!”
"I like all the colors!”
“I don’t like it. I think it looks mean.”

“We all have different opinions, and that’s OK”, explains Youth Services Librarian Laura Johnson.

After the discussion, children learned about French artist Henri Matisse and his unique story.

“After an illness, Matisse was bound to a wheelchair and had assistants aid him in creating his art”, said Johnson, “and today, we’re going to give each child the chance to be Matisse. They are going to assist each other in creating a collage”.

With a colorful array of construction paper at their fingertips, children were instructed to cut out two different shapes. Each child then got to instruct another classmate on how and where they wanted the pieces to be arranged.

“Let’s make a colorful crocodile!” exclaimed Johnson.

The children then worked together, channeling their inner Matisse, to create a bright, colorful, and abstract crocodile.

The Warren County Public Library has several events planned at various branches all summer long. Kirby Kids takes place every Monday at 3:30 at the Bob Kirby branch – located behind Culver’s Restaurant.

It is for children ages K-6 grade. Parents can attend classes as well.

A similar class, Creative Hands Crafts, is offered at the Main Branch of the library – located on State Street in downtown Bowling Green.

Click here for more information on the summer reading program.