I love to draw. I love to paint. I love to create something unique and what I can call my own. I have a background in art, but my children don’t, at least not yet! Since they were babies, I have held on to just about every “masterpiece” that they created. So call me a hoarder of children’s art, but I knew that every creation was special and significant to them and thus it was to me. In our playroom I have framed special pieces and created quite a decor design that we are all proud of today, all signed and dated. As they have grown older, the art wall has gotten sparse. They attend an art class once a week in school, and they follow the assignment, whether they like it or not. The spark and love that they once held is almost nonexistent and it makes me so sad.
American’s for the Arts reports:
Art education stimulates and develops the imagination and critical thinking, and refines cognitive and creative skills, it strengthens problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, adding to overall academic achievement and school success.
Art education develops a sense of craftsmanship, quality task performance, and goal-setting—skills needed to succeed in the classroom and beyond.
It teaches children life skills such as developing an informed perception; articulating a vision; learning to solve problems and make decisions; building self-confidence and self-discipline; developing the ability to imagine what might be; and accepting responsibility to complete tasks from start to finish.
Art education nurtures important values, including team-building skills; respecting alternative viewpoints; and appreciating and being aware of different cultures and traditions.
Smarty Moms, I would like to introduce you to Liz Seegers, owner of The Art Room and teacher for Music Together of Charlotte. She owns and operates a special place where children can and will use their creative juices to learn, develop and have fun putting paint, or whatever medium they choose, to paper and creating their very own masterpieces!
PS: Liz, the almond thing, I found out the hard way…you are allergic!
Liz Corwin Seegers’ Smarty Mom Stats:
Married to: Jeff Seegers
Mom of: Theo Seegers (5 months)
(The picture attached is the day we brought Theo home from the hospital. We were introducing him to our other “children” Zeb and Neko.)
Years in Charlotte: Native Charlottean
Occupation: Owner of The Art Room and teacher at Music Together of Charlotte
Typical Day:
Wake, diaper change, eat, play, diaper change, eat, sleep, and repeat. Throw in a Music Together class once a week and a few walks during the day and that is my beautiful life!
Funniest thing your baby has done:
His favorite thing to say is “Aaagoooo!” Jeff has made up stories about the “Land of Aaagooo” and all the “Gooo” drama that happens there.
Favorite activity as a family:
We love getting out for walks. We live in the Sedgfield neighborhood and we love to stroll to the park or walk over to Dilworth. Theo is not a fan of the car so anywhere we can go by foot is great.
Favorite for just you or “kid free”:
Jeff and I just went on our first kid-free date and I got a vanilla latte at Central Coffee. Wow. Their coffee is incredible. I live for my morning and afternoon cup of coffee.
“I could not live without…”
At this stage in my life I am really thankful for my community of friends and our family. Specifically my girlfriends have been so helpful in guiding me through motherhood. My whole life I have worked with kids, but being a mom is a whole new ballgame. My mom and friends have been a great sounding board and support in becoming a new mom.
Tell us about The Art Room.
After years of working with kids (as a nanny, an art teacher, and a music teacher) I wanted to combine all that I love, and support children in their creative development. I have a background in Montessori education, so our classes are designed to be child led. In our classes children are free to explore the space and do what they are drawn to (easel painting, the water color doodle bar, the pastel table, and chalk boards). I also see the value in exposing children to various techniques: printmaking, collage, beading, weaving, ceramics, and much more. Through creative play we give our artists a wonderful foundation and passion for art.
Something that most do not know about you:
Almonds make my mouth itch.
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1 comment
Love Liz!! One of my guys took classes at the art room. Amazing spot, fun classes, and the best art teacher around. :). Love that first day at home family photo – precious!