Elementary School Pupil in Art Class

The Power of Tweens Artists Program Classes at Purple Brush Art

At Purple Brush Art, our art classes for tweens are thoughtfully crafted by leading experts, including Ms. ​Roya Karbakhsh, a celebrated artist and experienced teacher featured on CBS and FOX, and Dr. Tootooni, an ​Artificial Intelligence Professor at one of Chicago's top universities. These classes are designed to foster ​creativity and imagination in children aged 9-13, providing a supportive environment for young artists to ​flourish. Scientific research highlights the benefits of art education during this critical period of ​development, supporting cognitive, emotional, and social growth in children.

  • Cognitive Development: Enhancing Problem-Solving Skills and Creativity

Artistic activities play a crucial role in developing cognitive skills in tweens. According to research by Hetland and Winner ​(2001), art education improves problem-solving abilities by encouraging students to think critically and creatively. In Purple ​Brush Art’s "Explorers of Masterpieces" class, for example, tweens explore the unique styles and techniques of famous artists, ​broadening their artistic horizons and nurturing their creativity through hands-on activities. Engaging in creative processes, ​such as transforming ordinary objects into impressive pieces of art, challenges tweens to innovate and solve problems uniquely​ ​(OECD.org - OECD)​.


  • Emotional Development: Fostering Self-Expression and Emotional Intelligence

Art serves as a powerful outlet for self-expression, allowing tweens to explore and understand their emotions. According to ​research reported by KQED, art activities can help students struggling with mental health issues by promoting self-awareness ​and acceptance​ (KQED)​. In Purple Brush Art’s "Draw Like a Pro" class, tweens are encouraged to express themselves through ​drawing, which enhances emotional resilience and self-confidence. The class provides a supportive environment where ​students can experiment and discover their unique artistic voice, fostering emotional intelligence and empathy​ (National ​Endowment for the Arts)​.


  • Social Development: Building Connections and Communication Skills

Participating in group art activities fosters social skills and connections among tweens. A study by Greene, Kisida, and Bowen ​(2014) demonstrated that exposure to arts education improves social tolerance and empathy. In Purple Brush Art’s "Portrait & ​Figure Frenzy" class, tweens learn to draw and paint people and dynamic events, engaging in hands-on activities that ​encourage collaboration and communication. Through shared experiences in the studio, tweens learn to appreciate diverse ​perspectives and develop stronger social bonds, enhancing their ability to interact effectively with others​ (Brookings)​​ ​(OECD.org - OECD)​.


  • Inspiring Imagination: Unleashing the Creative Potential

Art classes that focus on exploration and imagination, such as "Palette Play," provide tweens with the freedom to express ​themselves and unleash their creative potential. According to Runco and Acar (2012), fostering imagination in children ​contributes to innovative thinking and problem-solving abilities in adulthood. In these classes, tweens are encouraged to ​experiment with unconventional techniques and embrace individuality, leading to a joyful and liberating experience that ​stimulates their creative growth​ (National Institute on Drug Abuse)​​ (NASAA)​.


Conclusion

Scientific evidence highlights the significant benefits of art education for tweens, enhancing their cognitive, emotional, and ​social development. The Purple Brush Art programs provide a supportive and inspiring environment for tweens to explore their ​creativity, express their emotions, and connect with others. By enrolling in these classes, tweens embark on a journey of ​artistic discovery that nurtures their imagination, builds essential life skills, and enriches their personal growth. These classes ​not only prepare tweens for potential future careers in art but also equip them with the tools to navigate the complexities of ​adolescence and beyond.


References:

  1. Greene, J. P., Kisida, B., & Bowen, D. H. (2014). "New evidence of the benefits of arts education"​
  2. (Brookings)​.
  3. "How Making Art Helps Teens Better Understand Their Mental Health"​ (KQED)​.
  4. "What's the Connection Between Art and Brain Development?"​ (National Institute on Drug Abuse)​.
  5. "New NEA Research Report Shows Potential Benefits of Arts Education for At-Risk Youth"​ (National Endowment for the Arts)​.
  6. "Brain research shows the arts promote mental health"​ (The Conversation)​.
  7. "Art for Art’s Sake? The Impact of Arts Education"​ (OECD.org - OECD)​.
  8. "Arts Education"​ (NASAA)​.