The Rehoboth Art League’s summer outreach program has been providing art classes for 12 summers and is eagerly received by the supervisors and students at these sites. The program provides certified art teachers and supplies to centers in some of the poorest areas of Sussex County, giving these children an important and positive art experience.

The sites included Coverdale Community Center, Cool Spring Community Center, Slaughter Neck Community Center, Pinetown Community Center and the Family Outreach Center in Lincoln. Additional sites were Burton Village in Rehoboth Beach, Milton Boys & Girls Club in Milton, and the La Casita/Georgetown Elementary School in Georgetown.

Students ranged in age from 3 to 17 and did a wide variety of art projects including printmaking, mosaics, painting, jewelry and clay objects.

They also learned some art history, including Van Gogh’s techniques and Jackson Pollack’s drip art. The supplies for these activities were paid for by the grants.

The outreach program was a positive experience for the teachers as well. Art teacher Susan Greenbaum, who taught at the Walker Mill and Coverdale sites, said, “I personally had a wonderful experience with everyone I worked with. I enjoyed the community of helping the children with collaborative projects.”

Local printmaker John Murray taught at the Pinetown Community Center. “If any group needed a fun, creative opportunity for participating in the arts it was this one,” he said. “The program director there was so grateful to have an art program to help make the summer memorable for these children. It really makes a difference in their quality of life,” he added.”

The Rehoboth Art League and First State Community Action Agency hope to continue to expand the program depending on availability of state funding. “Bringing art classes and an arts experience to children throughout the county is central to our mission,” said Art League executive director Karen McGrath. “The partnership with First State helps us fulfill that mission.”