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The Norfolk Foundation Art Education Center opens at the Chrysler

A place where visitors may explore the history and content of works of art, create their own art, as well as exhibit their creations, the new Norfolk Foundation Center for Art Education is now open.

The establishment of the Center marks the first time that a distinct “campus” within the Chrysler exists that is dedicated entirely to art education. And, not a moment too soon, according to the education department. After all, original works of art are known to have the power to teach, to inspire, and to awaken a shared humanity.

Located on the first floor, the Center comprises redesigned Education Department offices, a digital learning center, an enhanced workshop, studio space, a children’s gallery, new gallery space, the Gifford Seminar Room, the Jean Outland Chrysler Library and a docent lounge.
“Our education facilities and offices have been transformed to state-of-the-art, fun and engaging spaces thanks to the generosity of The Norfolk Foundation,” says John S. Welch, director of Education and Public Programs.

“We now have capabilities for enhanced children’s programming and plan to launch new initiatives such as art classes and rotating shows of student work in our child-friendly gallery,” he says.

The vibrant and inviting primary colors in the workshop and gallery space also signal that the Chrysler is serious about investing in the community’s future through family-friendly programming and spaces dedicated especially for youngsters, according to Welch.

Some of the planned educational programs include:

• Chrysler Creates. A series of innovative art classes for adults and children;
• Drawing – Basics for the Young Artist. Classes which encourage each child to let his or her natural style emerge through a series of exercises aimed to “open the artist’s eye;” and
• Drawing the Line. For adults, these beginner classes are designed to develop basic skills in drawing. Topics and instructors of each class change on a monthly basis.

The new Center is an important component of the Museum’s ongoing Campaign for the Future, which also includes the renewal of the Chrysler’s facilities and the restoration of the Historic Houses.

“We cannot thank The Norfolk Foundation enough for their stupendous gift,” says Welch.
Topics will change on a monthly basis. To register for classes, or to visit the new Norfolk Foundation Art Center for Art Education, please call 333-6268

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For general information, please call (757) 664-6200. For media information, please contact the Public Relations Department at (757) 333-6295 or publicrelations@chrysler.org.