Freeburg Area Library District, Freeburg IL
The library selected artwork each month grouped by themes. A special viewing area was set up so everyone who came into the library could see the display. The 'Teaching Activities' section provided questions that were posted for some of the themes. We felt that this activity would be an interesting way to think about the techniques and historical significance of each piece of artwork. Ideas of what could be part of the display were discussed before finalizing the plans.
November: Native American Art - Ideas included basket/blanket weaving, pottery, jewelry, beadwork (1A, p. 1; 5B, p.26; 6B, p.30; 8B, p.38)
December: Textile Arts - Ideas included quilts, knitted and crocheted items, tapestry, wearable art, embroidery (10B, p. 46)
January: Architecture as Art - Ideas included buildings, monuments, architect biographies, local architecture such as the St. Louis Arch (1B, p.8; 7A, p.152;13A, p.38, 15B, p.69, 16A, p.70)
February: Abraham Lincoln Birthday Bicentennial - Ideas included Lincoln photos, bookmarks provided by 'Jesse White, Illinois Secretary of State' Office (9B, p.42; 10A, p.44)
March: Photography as Art - Ideas included book and camera displays. Other photos found on the Internet were displayed (13A, p.58; 18B, p.80; 19B, p.84)
April: Local American Art - Ideas included use of the local Acrylics Group high school student artwork (14A, p.62; 18A, p. 78; 20B, p.88)
November Children's Activities - Children created clay pots, weaved mats and made bead necklaces.
December Activity - Local area crafters brought in samples of their work that were displayed throughout the library.
January Children's Activity - Building blocks, including Legos and Lincoln Logs were placed on the table so children could be 'architects' and design their own building.
February - The public was invited to create birthday cards to send to the Illinois Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission.
March - Local photgraphers brought in their favorite photos.
April: - Local artists shared their special talents.
Submitted by Judith Groom