Image Credit: CFJC Today

By Adam Donnelly

FAMILY FUN

Kamloops Arts Council grows young minds at Children’s Art Festival

Sep 18, 2023 | 3:37 PM

KAMLOOPS — You see it written large on their faces. When kids are focused on arts and crafts — really locked in — it’s almost like you can see their tiny minds expanding.

“We want to provide free arts and crafts to the community so they can explore their skills as young artists,” Tiana Aguiluz, Kamloops Arts Council Program Coordinator, explains, “so they can explore what they’re capable of, you know. Get their hands dirty.’

From physical literacy to a myriad of different arts and crafts options, as well as some interesting performances, there was something for kids of all ages at the Children’s Art Festival at Riverside Park on Saturday (Sept. 16).

“I think I like the yo-yo,” Wilde told CFJC Today. “I used to have a plastic one from one of my friend’s birthday parties.”

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Paisley and Norah enjoyed some of the DIY tables.

“I like the sticker-making,” Paisley says.

“Me, too. That was probably my favourite,” Norah chimes in. “And the magnets.”

Sisters Kinley and Haley enjoyed making a tiny holder for popcorn at the Kamloops Y tent. “You make like a little piece of corn, and they have popcorn and you put it in the thing,” Haley explains.

Was it enough popcorn?

“No,” both Haley and Kinley reply.

Image Credit: CFJC Today

The kids and families in attendance had a chance to be entertained, to learn new skills and to get outside. All of these are important experiences in this day and age, according to organizers.

“This generation is very technology-focused,” Aguiluz says. “We’re losing the art of just doing art. A free event — especially in this economy — a free event where kids can just be kids, do crafts, explore another hobby, and not be on their phones.”