Richard D. Hoffmann Studios Art Gallery

Children and Art

God Through a Child's Eyes

"The hands stand for God and his children, the face is a sign of love and the hands are shaking, they're a sign of peace."
—Jennie, 6th grade student

A former art educator in the NYC school district, Rich Hoffmann knows first-hand of the importance of art in a child's education. The above sculpture class on "Monsters" resulted in his student's rendition of God as a protector and refuge. Through art, children learn to appreciate diversity, enhance their communication skills, stretch their imaginations and much more. Unfortunately with the decline of funding for the arts in schools, parents need to ensure that their children are exposed to as much art as possible in a variety of genres and themes. Original artwork in the home that stimulates their natural curiosity is a great way to begin your child's informal art education.

Art Solutions

At RDH Studios we believe that Art not only enhances the quality of life but it provides solutions for many of the challenges and problems we face. Many others, including experts, agree. We'd like to use this section to bring you differing perspectives; check back often as we'll be continuously adding to this resource.

NOTE: The following links are provided for informational purposes only. All links will open up in a new browser window. If you would like to be listed/delisted from this page, please send an email to info@hoffmannart.com.

Art as a Healing Tool

Art Therapy
Discusses how art is used to reconcile emotional conflicts, release emotions and anxiety, expecially in those with serious illnesses.

Art Therapy For Alzeimer's
From the BBC, this article looks at how art combats depression in those afflicted with this disease.

Arts and Healing Network
An on-line resource celebrating the connection between art and healing, this site presents many inspiring stories and projects by leaders in the field.

Feng Shui Cures
From About.com, a primer on color therapy, what each color represents and what it cures.

The American Art Therapy Association
Website of this national organization that serves its over 4500 members and the general public by providing standards of professional competence, and developing and promoting knowledge in, and of, the field of art therapy.

The ArtReach Foundation
The website of this foundation which uses art to heal victims around the world, especially children, who have been traumatized by war or natural disasters.

The Importance of Art Education for Children

Benefits of Arts Education For Children
A fact sheet listing all the benefits from a study done by the Americans for the Arts organization.

Why Art Matters: A Parents Guide to Arts Education For Children
A .pdf file eight-page guidebook from the California Parents-Teacher's Association.

The Arts Education Partnership
The primary forum and meeting ground for organizations to explore how the arts can transform American education, this group sets standards and policies and conducts research on relevant subject matter.