Visual and Craft Arts
Samuel Becerra – Latin American traditions
Liz Casey – Painting /Collage
Andrea DiPalma — Ceramices
Daniel Dronsfield – Muralism/ Papier-mache sculpture
Janas Durkee – Drawing/ Painting
Merideth Ferrell — Silk Banners/ Watercolor painting
Kay Irish — Drawing/ Watercolor
Laura Jackson — Sculptural arts / Clay /Wire
Alex Lanham — Clay / Drawing / Tile murals
Mari Livie — Mixed-media
Karen Moeller — Puppet-making / Sculpture
Joni Prittie — Illustration and Storyboarding
Kimberly Treloar — Glass Art – Kiln-formed
Performing Arts
Residencies
Alseny Yansane & Andrea DiPalma — African Music and Dance
Rachael Carnes — Dance and Movement
Jose Cruz— Latin Dance and Music
Maggie Matoba – Hawaiian Music and Culture
Eularee Smith & Marie Pederson –Theater / Musical Theater
Kelly Terwilliger — Storytelling
Kelly Thibodeaux — Fiddle Music
Assemblies
Alseny Yansane & Andrea DiPalma — African Music and Dance
Jose Cruz— Latin Rhythms
Christopher Leebrick — Storytelling
Maggie Matoba and Iron Mango — Hawaiian Music & Cultural Arts
Josh Humphrey — North Indian Classical Music
Paul Prince — World Music, Harp and Guitar
Kelly Terwilliger — Storytelling
Kelly Thibodeaux — Fiddle Music
Directory of YouthArts Artists 2009-2010
Go to: Visual Arts - Residencies | Performing Arts - Residencies and Assemblies
Visual Arts Residencies
Samuel Becerra (Latin American traditions / Sculpture / Music)
Samuel Becerra, born and raised in Mexico City, studied music at the G. Martell School of Music. He plays multi-instruments -- wind, percussion, and strings -- in a variety of styles from salsa to Latin Jazz, Mariachi, and pre Colombian music. Samuel has played with regional premier Latin music groups such as Grupo Condor, Caliente, and Sonmelao. He previously presented Performance Assemblies through Lane Arts Council with the Latin American music groups Lo Nuestro and Grupo Condor.
Samuel Becerra offers a hands-on program that explores ancient Mexican culture through music and clay sculpture. Through this exploration of Latin American and Andean culture through music instruments and artifacts, He shares his skills and knowledge about traditional and ethnic music and artistic expression. Samuel is new to the Residency program this year, but has taught and performed in many settings.
Liz Casey (Painting / Collage)
Liz Casey has had her painting and fabric works shown up and down the west coast in British Columbia, Washington and California since 1992. She holds a Master's degree in Art Education and has recently relocated to Oregon where she has received an Oregon initial teaching license. She also has teaching credentials in Washington and California. Liz offers a workshop for teachers in drawing and painting on paper, tile or fabric where she teaches them how to integrate core subject matter into relevant art projects. "My interest in teaching youth is to awaken and involve students in the creative process and to provide an increased awareness and appreciation of the arts."
Liz offers three exciting options for painting projects with students: still life with tempera and watercolors, tile design using acrylic paints and painting on paper finished by adhering to wood, with each one resulting in a finished artwork ready for wall display. Her emphasis is on design, composition and color skills as it is realized in abstraction, landscape and still life styles, and she fosters creativity and art making using simple materials and relying on basic comprehension of design or aesthetic principles.
"Liz did a wonderful job and was very professional. Liz came to our Literacy Night on her own time with a display of the "residency" for parents to see" Shelly Silver, Kindergarten Teacher and residency coordinator, Howard Elementary
Andrea DiPalma (Ceramics)
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Andrea DiPalma, a graduate of the UO Fine Arts Department, was Resident Potter at the UO Craft Center and creator of Dancing Hands Ceramics. She has influenced many aspiring ceramic students throughout the Pacific Northwest with her creative ceramic forms, vibrant glaze combinations and wax resist patterns.
Squish it, stretch it, bend it, mold it; there isn't anything that kids love to handle more than clay! Join Andrea as she leads ceramic residencies that engage students of all educational backgrounds, inspiring creativity and developing focus and pride in ones' work. Her fun and educational ceramic residencies teach the basic skills of creating clay projects through hand building and decorating using a variety of colorful and exciting surface techniques. Students gain an understanding of three dimensional design techniques and color theory while developing their own ideas and styles by completing kid-tested clay projects. Students learn the entire process of how to work with clay, use tools safely and effectively and learn how to finish and fire ceramic art. Many opportunities for interdisciplinary education exist, including language arts, mathematics, cultural arts, history and science.
"I thought that the amount of techniques they learned was impressive. They loved it." Laurie McCaskill , Kinder teacher, Gilham Elementary
"Andrea employs balanced and precise instruction of sculpting techniques while using her remarkable abilities with children. Bravissismo!" Caroline Ward, Bertha Holt Elementary
Recent Artist Residencies (Clay) include Gilham, Adams, Holt (2nd grade), Twin Oaks, Willagillespie.
Daniel Dronsfield (Muralism and Papier-mache Sculpture: Multimedia artmaking for groups.)
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Daniel Dronsfield is a filmmaker, photographer, painter, and sculptor with a degree in Independent Film Production and Linguistics from Evergreen State College. He has traveled to 30 countries including an English teaching stint in Tibetan refugee camps in India and recent photographic assignments in Indonesia, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. He is conversant in Spanish and has written, produced, filmed and edited twenty nine documentary, music video, and art films, the most critically acclaimed of which is entitled “The Ice Block Cometh! The Life of a Cambodian Ice Block.” Daniel also owns and operates a fashion line of original drawings screen-printed onto t-shirts as well as redesigned sweater vests called Ch-Ching! Which is for sale at Kitsch and Deluxe Fashion in Eugene, Oregon.
Daniel brings together his many skills and experiences to engage students in projects that connect art and media by having students create large scale backdrop paintings, small simple animations, as well as three-dimensional papier-mache and clay sculptures. These projects then serve as backdrops and props for stop-action animations.
"Daniel Dronsfield worked with fifty kids for ten days, assisting with costumes, sets and prop designs, including construction of a volcano and a space ship that landed on the volcano and flew off of it at the end of the show spewing treasures from within. Daniel proved to be fantastic, easy going, light and funny, capable and talented and proved to be visionary within our ranks. I can guarantee you a freshness and enthusiasm that will inspire adults and children alike. Daniel easily works with large and small scale products. He meets children where they are and with his can-do attitude inspires them to reach a little further."
-Lola Broomberg, Founder and Director of Imagine That!
Janas Durkee (Drawing, Painting, Murals)
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Janas Durkee is a professional artist working primarily in pastel or acrylic paints. She works as a commissioned painter with an emphasis on pet and people portraits and captures life in an endearing and colorful way. She holds an MFA in painting from Ball State University and has worked as an art teacher at the Indiana School of the Blind. Her work has been featured in regional magazines and national publications. She was named a "Creative Renewal Fellow" and grant recipient by the Arts Council of Indianapolis for travel to Uganda, Africa, and her resulting solo show and public presentations in Indianapolis received excellent reviews.
Janas engages students in the processes and material of two-dimensional artmaking. Students use varied materials and mixed-media to gain experience in drawing and painting from basic line drawing and shading to a wall-size mural. She presents a sequence tailored to the participants' needs with an emphasis on youth with special needs. Janas strives to focus on the process of making art, encouraging her students to explore different media and become confident in their use various art materials.
"Janas was especially effective in engaging students in the various art activities. She encouraged students to think creatively and to try something new. Janas made a point of learning student's names and received verbal complements from parents, staff and students!" Joane Butler, Principal, Coburg Elementary School
"Janas went beyond expectations - extended time with kids and did a lot of work on her own time to create an amazing 4 feet by 16 feet mural that will be displayed in our hallway." Judy Provo 4th grade teacher, Bertha Holt Elementary
"Janas was great! She taught interesting lessons that engaged our students. Her behavior management was superb. She was well liked by staff, students, and parents. Thanks Jan!" Roxanne Simpson, Teacher & art committee rep, Spring Creek Elementary
"Janas was so successful working at all of the grade levels. She was wonderful with the kindergarten students as well as the 5th graders. We would have Jan back again. She was terrific." Alicia Kruska, Student Achievement Coordinator, Gilham Elementary
Recent Artist Residencies include Coburg, Gilham, Holt (3 times: K, 3, 5), Yugin Gakuen, Arts & Technology Academy, Spring Creek Elementary
Merideth Ferrell (Silk Banner painting / Watercolor)
Merideth “Merit” Ferrell is a watercolor-pastel artist and a silk painter and co-author with Ellen Gabehart of the book "Young at Art: Easy Art Lessons for Everyone!," which features 24 illustrated drawing, painting, and collage lessons for teachers, home-school instructors and parents to do with their students grades K-5. Merideth is co-owner of Ferrell Apparel, which sells hand-painted silk wearables, and has exhibited and sold her work in the region for many years.
Merideth shares with students her skills in 1) silk banner painting; 2) watercolor painting; and 3) drawing. Students learn the fundamentals of drawing using a spatial technique that teaches them how things are put together for an understanding of how to draw. The values of light and dark translate from pencil to color through watercolor painting by mixing colors and understanding primary, secondary and tertiary colors. Merideth encourages imagination and creativity using what the kids love best: animals and pets, dragons and dinosaurs. “Underwater habitats” with dolphins and jellyfish and “jungle habitats” with monkeys and tigers are examples of the creative possibilities she offers in making silk banners and silk painting. Kids' individual expressions are enhanced through increased skills as Merideth keeps the fun in art.
"Very fun and high hearted. Kids loved it." Geoff Parks, 3rd grade Teacher, Bertha Holt Elementary.
"It was a joy to watch our students experimenting and painting with watercolors. They were very proud of their art." Denisa Taylor, Principal, César E. Chavez Elementary and Family School
"Her unique approach and stimulating art lessons capture her students' attention and curiosity, encouraging them to experiment with different materials. Most of all, her enthusiasm and positive, joyful attitude permeates her teaching environment." Ellen Gabehart, artist/instructor
Recent Artist Residencies include Holt (3rd), Fairfield, Meadow View, Chavez, Creslane
Kay Irish (Drawing / Painting)
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Kay Irish, a professional artist who works with clay, drawing and painting, was a high school art teacher for many years and has taught art to young people in a variety of programs. She is also instructor for teachers on how to teach art.
Kay has developed a variety of units that focus on different habitats and their subject matter, which work well with interdisciplinary curriculum because students learn about the animals and their habitat while learning how to draw with pencil, colored pencil, and watercolor pencil. She adapts the lessons to the skill levels of the students so students can develop art skills while still having fun.
Kay offers subjects in bugs, marine life, mammals, polar, birds, wetlands, reptiles and amphibians with additional units on the Oregon Trail and cartooning. She also teaches art units based on Native American and Australian Aboriginal artwork where students learn about the different cultures and their art. Kay also provides art workshops for teachers in drawing, painting, using clay and learning how to fire a kiln.
"Our school is in the center of the West Eugene Wetland Project. The students' tiles will depict the wetlands that surround our school. Most of our classes have been to the wetlands and/or had them come to us. Kay was very flexible and communicated any needs or concerns in a positive manner. She was great to work with." Jon Lee, Assistant Principal, Prairie Mountain K8 (Bethel District)
Recent Artist Residencies include Territorial Elementary, St Paul Parish School, Meadow View, Prairie Mountain.
Laura Jackson (Sculptural arts: Clay / Wire sculpture / Relief printmaking)
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Laura Jackson is an energetic teacher in ceramics, glass fusing, printmaking, drawing and painting. She is a certified art instructor and professional fused glass artist and ceramic artist with a B.F.A. in Art Education. Her artwork consists of functional pieces and jewelry. Laura is also a substitute teacher for the 4J and Bethel districts and teaches camps and workshops for Brush Fire and classes for Maude Kerns and Elemental Play, a clay studio.
Laura specializes in hands-on demonstrations, positive classroom management, and pieces of finished artwork by every student. As students experience art production in a supportive atmosphere, they learn about production methods, materials, art history, and the practice of a professional artist. Projects include wire figurative sculptures, collagraphs (hand printed relief prints) and claywork, and glass tiles are available with a commitment to high quality materials and firing costs.
"Laura did a fabulous job with both schools." Wally Bryant, Principal, Harris and Eastside Elementary Schools
"This was a great residency. Laura is a trained teacher and it shows. The kids were engaged and excited to have Laura come each day. I am looking forward to hanging the wire sculpture mural in our front hall--this was a great culminating, all-school project". Chad Hamilton, Principal, Latham Elementary (Cottage Grove).
"Every child felt successful with both the fused glass project and the wire sculpture. A child wrote in his journal: My glass turned out so beautiful. I can't wait to see it when it comes out of the kiln." Judy Garwood, classroom teacher & residency coordinator, Edgewood Community Elementary
"Laura was fantastic with the kids, very personable with students and adults, had great classroom management skills, and was well respected by the students and teachers." Bonnie Fillingame, Second Grade Teacher, Bertha Holt Elementary
"We used many of the student pieces in our First Annual Art Show. They were beautiful and a nice addition. It was also nice that Laura donated art pieces to the art show. Laura did a wonderful job teaching. Her instructional skills were very good!" Karen Hardin, Principal, Awbrey Park Elementary
Recent Artist Residencies include Latham, Edgewood, Creslane, Awbrey Park, Buena Vista/Meadowlark, Harris, Eastside, McCornack.
Alex Lanham (Ceramics / Tile murals / Drawing)
Alex Lanham has an infectious enthusiasm for clay creation. He started working with clay at Lane Community College where he was a teacher's assistant for two years and attended the University of Oregon where he earned an MFA. He has taught art in many school and community settings and has created many tile murals around Lane County testify to his work with young people.
Alex works to promote positive energy and self-confidence among his students. Some of his past residencies include creating tile murals with self-portraits and 3-D wildlife and 3-D clay creatures or self-portraits, which the students were able to take home. Additionally, Alex has experience addressing the special needs of students and works very well with students from other cultures and those in self-contained classrooms. "I encourage students to explore and create from the smallest pinch pot to the tallest sculpture. What is important is the discovery of the wonder of creating."
"I was impressed with how Alex made an extra effort to identify challenging students and take them under his wing." Wayne Laut, Superintendent Blachly School District
Recent Artist Residencies include River Road El Camino del Rio Elementary (extended multi-week Residency, 2007-2009), Thurston (Springfield).
Mari Livie (Mixed-media: Clay/Collage/Fabric)
Mari Livie is wild about creating. She was raised in the wilds of Alaska (though not by wolves), and has always drawn inspiration from that wilderness. Mari received her degree in Ceramics and Environmental Studies at University of Oregon. Work in Eugene includes Rosetta Park Bench, BRING Water Wall (an Art Chics collaboration), Cornucopia mosaic (with Sarah Bastida), 2nd and Blair Sculpture (a MECCA project). She recently received the Ina Stentiford Memorial Scholarship for art quilting and is working toward a solo exhibition. Mari has led art workshops for youth and adults and directed projects with N.E.H.S., N.E.A.H.S., Bridgeway House, M.E.C.C.A., Peace Village, Network Charter School, Y.W.A., Lane Arts Council’s summer and afterschool programs, Looking Glass, Imagine That, and others. Mari is new to the Residency program this year.
Mari Livie offers workshops in clay and cloth. The clay classes focus primarily on group process, providing opportunities to create and problem solve in small groups. She also explores hand building methods, figure and facial proportions, and sculpting methods. Approximately two finished pieces are produced by each student. In Mari’s cloth workshops students will explore the history and significance of quilted art, generate ideas through words and images, participate in the design process (shape and color), learn simple stitches and decoration techniques, and assemble a work of fabric art. Depending on the school’s preference these pieces can become individual items or a collaborative work.
For the last four years, Mari Livie has served as a "guest teacher" at NEAHS. Her creativity, patience and ability to connect with students from every walk of life has made her a valuable member of our small school community. As her supervising teacher I have been impressed by her professionalism; as well as her commitment to students, family, and promotion of artistic expression. Jed Shafer, MAT, North Eugene Alternative High School
Mari Livie has proven herself to be a passionate artist who provides students with an appreciation for recycling and ecological use of art materials. Her performance as a teacher has proven to be consistently dependable. Lola Broomberg, Imagine That Summer Adventures
Mari is very personable whether working with adults, children, or animals. She has a flourishing sense of humor and wonderful communication skills. She is highly responsible to the needs of any project, be they time, quality, design, or skill. Betsy Wolfston, Ceramic Artist
Karen Moeller (Puppetry / Sculpture)
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Karen Moeller is a multi-skilled artist who creates whimsical puppets, masks and sculpture with paper-cloth mache and recycled materials. She has a BA in sculpture and a MA in Developmental Disabilities, with 30 years teaching experience ranging from art instruction to substitute teaching to working with special education students. Karen chose the art of puppetry for its opportunities to create through many mediums: sculpture, painting, fabric design, theatre, and literary arts. She also has experience in teaching bookmaking and mural-painting.
With Karen students learn the technical processes of working with various art mediums to complete a specified project and in the process also learn creative problem solving skills that can be applied to their lives, both academically and personally. She promotes the use of recycled materials and the value of art and nature in all facets of life. Students will leave this experience with a strengthened sense of self-awareness and connection to the world around them.
"Karen is magnificent! Karen knows her stuff, has wonderful rapport with the students, and produces a great product. Our kids loved the project. We celebrated with an all school puppet parade followed by puppet singing and dancing in the gym." Deborah Dailey, Behavior Support, Edison Elementary
"This is the second year in a row we have asked Karen to be our A in R. She does a wonderful job of leading the kids through a challenging process in a way that they are all engaged and having fun (making papier mache hand puppets)." Rich Howorth, Teacher (5th) Bertha Holt
"The students were all so proud of their puppets and looked forward to their art time with Karen!" Shelly Ann Carlton, Teacher (3rd), Corridor Elementary
Recent Artist Residencies include Twin Oaks, Edison/ Meadow View, Eastside, Hillside, Corridor, Edgewood, Holt (5th).
Joni Prittie (Illustration and Storyboarding)
Joni Prittie’s professional and published work includes botanical illustrations, greeting cards and as author, stylist, and packager of a variety of arts, crafts, garden and gift books including Crayola's Crafts for Kids series and a best-selling garden craft series. Joni worked in England for many years as a designer and illustrator and most recently has designed vector images for software companies.
(Photos: Garden image by Joni Prittie; Student with illustration project)
As an art specialist, Joni taught for many years in schools and after school classes, summer art camps and private lessons, and at art events such as the Kennedy Center’s Imagination Celebration. A former member of the Board of Directors of the California Teachers for the Arts, she loves to foster the artist in every student. Joni is new to the Residency program this year. "Art builds self-confidence and supports the imagination and discovery of the world we live in. I feel so fortunate to have participated in a small way in the creative life of so many children."
Working with pencil, watercolor pencil and pen and ink, students learn the drawing skills needed to create and illustrate their story. These skills include how to portray emotions in line illustration and how to draw a character in several positions. They learn how to make a storyboard and create final illustrations for their story. Illustrating includes a story with characters in a particular setting that expresses a child's thoughts and feelings. And the project is not complete until all the magical stories are shared. An altermative illustration residency focuses on stencil-making and patterning with individual products or a group muraling project.
Kimberly Treloar (Glass Art – Kiln-formed and Fused)
Kim Treloar combines unique skills as a Resident Artist. She is an accomplished glass artist focusing on hot manipulation, casting, mold making, glass alchemy and cold working. Most of her artwork is kiln-formed and fused glass objects that are both functional and sculptural. Kim is preparing for a solo exhibition and teaches Glass Art Education. “Glass remains eternally fascinating to me because it is so complex and groundbreaking things are still being done with it. I always want to know more - test the limits of how I can use it to express my art.”
Kim is an experienced and credentialed elementary/middle school teacher, holding a Masters degree in Curriculum Design & Technology and design integrated curriculum. She offers a variety of (safe) Glass Art Residencies that are fully aligned with the Oregon and National Art Content Standards. Her Glass Art residencies can be integrated across the content standards, thematic, or skill based. Kim is new to the Residency program this year.
Student project outcomes can range depending on materials budget. Recycling projects can be done for a minimum budget, though the scope of principles and elements of art may be restrictive. For a moderate budget, with the greatest opportunity for students to express themselves creatively, small glass tile pieces can be done for use in a school-wide glass installation piece or finished into magnets or light switch plate for students to take home. Portable glass kilns are provided and managed by the artist.
Performing Arts Residencies & Assemblies
AlsenyYansane and Andrea DiPalma (African Music and Dance - Residency or Assembly)
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Alseny Yansane is a dynamic teacher who has been a performing artist with world renowned Ballets Africains for fourteen years and has dazzled audiences across the globe with his fancy footwork, powerful percussion and heart stopping acrobatics. Alseny is internationally recognized as a cultural ambassador for his broad understanding of the dances, rhythms and traditions from each geographical region of Guinea, West Africa and has brought new songs and musical arrangements to the Pacific Northwest. Alseny is a wonderful teacher who is energetic, inspiring and fun, adored by kids of all ages who snap to attention in his presence.
Andrea DiPalma lived many years in Guinea immersing herself in the art, culture and way of life. She has trained with many disciplined and visionary artists, performed in a variety of prestigious venues, including festivities for the Guinea President, General Lansana Conte and collaborated with Alseny to teach young people aspiring to become performance artists. Andrea is fluent in Susu, Guinea's national language, and has transcended many cultural barriers to gain an appreciation and understanding of Guinean society. She is recognized by educators for her creative curriculum development, classroom management skills and her ability to integrate educational themes in Won Tan Nara Productions' interactive residencies.
Students experience the joy and passion of West African culture through the study of its vibrant music, intricate poly-rhythms, call and response singing style, athletic dance steps and artful choreography.
"Alseny's stay at Opportunity Center was superb. He is an extremely talented and giving individual and he immediately established a good relationship with students. I have nothing but great things to say about it and I'm sure that we'll schedule a return. Many students have run into Alseny in town. I trust that they also value their friendship with him, which is priceless." Daniel Teran-Gallo, Teacher, Opportunity Center
"Overall, teachers and children were very pleased with these artists. Some of the 5th graders said it was the most fun they have ever had, nothing but fun, eager to learn and engaging, incredible jobs." Peggy Wiedenheft, Teacher, Willagillespie
"The artists were great. I was so impressed with their awesome talent as drummers and dancers. They had wonderful chemistry with the children and excellent management skills. They made their lessons age and stage appropriate for each group of students that they were working with. Their friendly, outgoing nature was welcoming to all who joined their class sessions." Roxanne Simpson, Teacher, Spring Creek Elementary
"Andrea and Alseny were prompt, professional and easy to work with. The lessons were well designed, engaging and developmentally appropriate for each grade level. Students used drums to learn a variety of West African rhythms and they expanded their knowledge of those rhythms through dance and movement." Tom Maloney, Principal, Edison Elementary School
Recent Artist Residencies include Willagillespie, Opportunity Center, Edison, Spring Creek, Moffitt, Arts & Technology Academy. (Photo with map by Gordon H. Nagai is from Residency finale at Arts & Technology Academy, June 2008.)
Recent Performance Assemblies include Mt. Vernon, Coburg, Arts & Technology Academy, Trent, Mapleton, Creslane, Spencer Butte MS, and Prairie Mountain.
Rachael Carnes ((Dance/Drama/Visualizing a Story)
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Rachael Carnes has been teaching dance and drama to kids (and kids at heart) since 1994. With a degree in DanceTheater from Reed College, she founded local non profit Sparkplug Dance in 2004, an organization dedicated to helping communities to unite in their vision and vigor to build the arts and physical activity into every child's education. Rachael regularly trains classroom teachers, specialists and administrators, to use the performing arts as a learning keystone. Rachael teaches an annual symposium on arts learning for Lane Community College, and has been invited to present on arts integration, nationally and internationally, including the Netherlands, Turkey and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Residency Focus: Pick a favorite, or combine! (1) Dance: Explore the Elements of Dance in an accessible way that suits all learners as it ties to math, music, language and science. (2) Drama: From group to troupe, develop new skills in listening, seeing, developing characters, scenework and even original plays while reading, writing and social skills come to life. (3) Visualizing a Story: Work with a seasoned performer as she guides students through their story telling process. From movement, to expression, to the structure of the story making process itself, use the performing arts to enliven the writing process, even for those kids who say they "Don't know what to write."
What to expect from a residency: A balance of structured activities and rigorous exploration, Rachael's classes are developmentally appropriate, provide engagement with the arts, enhance academic concepts, and help students of all abilities to cultivate the emotional and social skills that working in the creative arts can foster.
"The residency (teaching) was great. Many, many teachers told me how happy they were--this was the best residency we have had. Kids loved it." Pamela Irvine, Principal Adams Elementary (This was a joint Residency with dancer Rachael Carnes and fiddle musician Kelly Thibodeaux, see below.)
"Rachael Carnes and her staff are dedicated to providing opportunities for children of all abilities to learn...alongside one another in an accessible and welcoming environment." Sue Mathisen, Lane Education Service District
"We wish we could have you every week" Susan Ventura, Edgewood Elementary School
Recent Artist Residencies include Adams, Creslane, Arts & Technology Academy, Edgewood, and Harris.
Jose Cruz (Latin Dance and Music - Residency or Latin Rhythms Assembly)
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Jose Cruz is a Latin dance choreographer and musician and the founder of Salseros, a salsa dance group, in Eugene, where he currently teaches and directs the dance group. He was born in El Salvador, and he is bilingual in English and Spanish. He began by teaching Casino Rueda (Cuban style salsa) then LA style on1 (a flashy style of dance using Afro-Cuban movements), now on1 with and NY style on2 (a dance on the second beat of the music also using Afro-Cuban movements). He currently teaches salsa, Merengue, cha cha, bachata and cumbia. This is his second year in the Artist Residency program.
Jose’s teaching is based on strong techniques and foundations and makes the learning process enjoyable with his great sense of humor. His goal is to share his passion for Latin music and dance and to expose young students to the Latin culture. Students become involved in the movement as they learn steps and interpret rhythms, and through this, they build a strong self-esteem, learn individuality and how to treat others with respect. Jose says, "They will not only learn how to dance, but will learn how to socialize, communicate with others and become a confident adult. No matter where they are from, even if they don't speak the same language, they make friends all around the world when they dance Salsa."
"Jose was awesome to work with. I highly recommend him. This residency totally linked with our Spanish program and our end of year Fiesta activity. It helped get our kids ready." Scott Marsh, Principal, Parker Elementary
"Jose really wanted the kids to master steps before they moved on. Jose was very conscientious. He worked well with our PE teacher, David Babcock. Together they provided a solid program for the students. Jose performed a Salsa dance at an assembly, he helped support the students to perform at a different assembly, and he taught a Salsa lesson to participants at our Chávez Festival on a Saturday." Denisa Taylor, Principal, Chávez Elementary and Family School
"Jose is patient with the students, willing to go over things many times if needed, and he progresses with them in a logical way. He knows when to keep their interest by adding in a new more complicated move, and when to slow things down and return to the basics when needed. Jose's years of experience shows in his fluidity with both his dancing and interacting with the students." Karla Alvarado, Teacher, Springfield Public Schools
Recent Residencies: Chavez / Family school, Parker, McCornack
Josh Humphrey (North Indian Classical Music with Tabla and Oud - Assembly)
Josh Humphrey's independent study in oral traditions of non-Western music, includes traditional Indian oral technique (Kolkata, India), where rhythmic compositions are sung before being played; extensive study on the Arabic Maqamat and the Turkish Music systems (Armenia and Iraq); and North Indian Classical tabla, raga and tala. With a Master's degree in Intermedia Music Technology, he has composed and presented a range of compositions of electro-acoustic works.
Through an interactive 40-minute performance and learning experience, Mr. Humphrey presents the rhythms and sounds in North Indian Classical Music, reflecting the culture of the Indian Subcontinent, both Hindu and Muslim. Exciting hand drum rhythms, produced using a series of extremely intricate and detailed hand strokes, create an amazing variety of sounds from just two drums. Along with introducing the ancient stringed Oud, students interact and learn basic patterns by clapping simple time cycles together with the music. Not only does this beautiful and ancient tradition involve math and poetry, but the experience nurtures a learners sense of pattern, logic, and creativity. This Assembly Performance provides an entertaining and exciting environment that enhances understanding and appreciation for the intricate rhythms of Indian music.
Recent Performance Assemblies include Mapleton, Spencer Butte MS, McKenzie, Meadow View.
Christopher Leebrick (Storytelling - Assembly)
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Christopher Leebrick is an award-winning storyteller who has enthralled audiences since the age of thirteen. He first appeared with Lane County's "Troupe of Tellers" Roosevelt Middle School in 1975, and has since shared stories with thousands across the United States and as far away as Australia. All three of his CDs, "Good Stories From All Over," "Critters, Kids, and Cowboys” and “Spoooky!” have received national Storytelling World awards.
Christopher returns to Lane County with a cornucopia of stories including world folk-tales, original stories, narrative poetry, whoppers and jump-tales. Utilizing a rich flexible voice, a dynamic stage presence, and powerful acting, Christopher brings the ancient art of storytelling alive for each and every audience member. He also sets the mood for many of his tales with the skillful use of instruments such as the harmonica and the eastern cedar flute.
Chris’ assemblies inspire students to become more expressive readers and to truly strive for excellence in creative writing and the art of theatre.
"Wow! Christopher is a master of his craft and such a treasured inspiration...a 10!" Lane County Educators
"Fabulous show . . . Chris held the audience spellbound . . . Great interaction between Chris and the audience . . . the kids were truly engrossed." Eugene Public Library
Performance Assembly. Availability: Audiences less than 250 preferred; back-to-back assemblies recommended for larger schools (e.g. grades K-2 and then grades 3-5), add $150 for two back-to-back Assemblies.
Recent Performance Assemblies include Mt. Vernon, Mapleton, Coburg, Mapleton, Oakridge.
Maggie Matoba (Hawaiian Music and Culture - Residency or Assembly)
Maggie Matoba is an Ukulele instructor specializing in Hawaiian-style techniques. She is the founder and coordinator of Mele Ohana 'O Eugene, a Hawaiian music players group, and Iron Mango Orchestra, a Hawaiian music performing group comprised of stringed instruments and vocalists. Maggie is also a band member of _Hana Hou_, playing traditional and contemporary Hawaiian music with ukulele, slack key guitar, slack key bass, and as back-up vocalist.
With Maggie, students listen to and learn the basics of Hawaiian music and Hawaiian (and non-Hawaiian) musical instruments like the ukulele, guitar, hand percussion and hula implements and learn how they are used: They experience Hawaiian culture and traditions, including language and pronunciation, ancient and modern hula, hand instruments, usage of hula implements, and sometimes lei-making. Ukulele is for children grades _four _and up and requires five sessions minimum. Rhythm and movement is open to all ages.
Maggie shares the incredible richness of the Hawaiian culture through a learning sequence that encompasses music, dance, history, and arts and crafts for a better understanding of the islands, its people and their heritage with an emphasis on perpetuating these art forms before they disappear. She also engages the contemporary culture of the islands and its historical evolution.
"The kids loved playing the rhythms with the different instruments. The rhythm activities were great in the fourth grade. The kids really got into it and did an outstanding job playing together. The ukulele was a great success in the higher grades. The third graders found playing the ukuleles very difficult. They were not as successful as the fourth and fifth grades. The youngers enjoyed playing the instruments (milk jugs, sticks, and rocks), learning the hula, and making the cards the most. There are several students in the first grade that do not think that it is cool to dance, but they were doing the hula!" Pam Nelson First grade teacher, Territorial Elementary School
"She was masterful at planning appropriate, fun-filled, learning tasks for the children. Bravo." Rita Weber, Head Teacher Camp Creek Elementary
Recent Artist Residencies include Walterville, McCornack, Camp Creek, Territorial Elementary
Performance Assembly - All Grades
Maggie Matoba's Iron Mango ukulele ensemble performs traditional and contemporary songs, and demonstrates hula, emphasizing the beauty, complexity, and diversity of Hawaiian music and dance.
Recent Performance Assemblies include Spencer Butte MS, Oakridge.
Paul Prince (World music with Harp and Guitar - Assembly)
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Paul Prince holds a degree in Music Composition from Evergreen College and has enjoyed teaching guitar to children for many years. His music has been heard on Public Radio International's Afropop WorldWide, and his well-received CD "Ocean Bells" presents a variety of world music.
Paul performs on a unique harp and on Hawaiian Slack Key guitar. Music examples are Early Music (related to Gregorian Chant), Africa (Kora and Ngoni harps from Senegal, the Valia from Madagascar, and Mbira guitar from Zimbabwe), and French Impressionist technique based on Claude Debussy's piano music. His self-designed harp's top strings produce crystalline tones and unique musical effects using various techniques: harmonics, glissandos, harmonies, strumming, note bending, timbre, and percussive effects.
Paul communicates to students how the beauty inherent in these cultures' music enriches our lives. He emphasizes how his harp's design and construction resulted from planning, study, historical research, and how this helps a harpist or guitarist build an interesting performance style. One of the highlights is that at the conclusion students learn to create a simple poly-rhythmic accompaniment for Paul's performance of a collaborative piece with communal music making African style.
"Paul included various children in a musical performance that was enjoyed by all. He was very effective at drawing the children into his program and reaching them with his performance. We were extremely pleased not only with Paul's talent but with the positive way that he relates to his audience. Paul has a lot to offer audiences." Connie Dodge and Jack Schlea, Triangle Lake School
Recent Perfromance Assemblies include Mapleton
Eularee Smith and Marie Pederson (Theater / Musical Theater w/music and dance - Residency)
Eularee Smith and Marie Pederson of Upstart Crow Studios have many years experience teaching music, theater and dance for young people. They have organized and directed numerous theater and musical productions, with an emphasis on musical theater and Broadway productions. Eularee is a music and theater instructor. Marie has extensive experience integrating dance technique with performance and showmanship. Upstart Crow, a youth performing arts company, works with students ages 5 to 18 years, in dance, theatre and music. Its approach is to provide successful experiences to all children in the performing arts and to demonstrate the power of creative expression. Eularee and Marie are new to the Residency program this year.
Two basic Residency options are available. (1) Theatre skills and techniques, including readers theatre, builds the students’ confidence as they engage in the dynamics of performance. (2) A special Broadway production residency introducing methods of voice and movement to music, with the goal of concluding with school performance-in-progress. Upstart Crow needs a large floor space (gym or clean cafeteria space) and appreciates access to a stage and piano, if available at the school. Costumes, props and scripts can be provided depending on the type of residency.
Kelly Terwilliger (Storytelling / Story making / Writing - Residency or Assembly)
Kelly Terwilliger is a professional teller and writer of stories. She has been telling stories in classrooms and libraries and at community events for the past eight years, and is a member of the National Storytelling Network. She also holds a Master's degree in English Literature and is a published poet and children's writer. One of her stories has been made into a picture book and a second has been accepted for publication. Two have appeared in Spider Magazine with two more due to be published in the near future. She has also recently published a collection of poems.
As a storyteller and story writer, Kelly engages kids in the process of story-making, a magical combination of memory, invention, image and language. She offers kids the opportunity to participate in the sustained communal experience of listening to stories. She guides kids through techniques of confidently and expressively telling stories themselves. She uses storytelling improvisation to help kids create new stories out of basic narrative frameworks, and she encourages kids to convey their stories using a variety of dramatic, visual, and literary arts.
Through story-making, students learn to create coherent and flowing narratives, delight in imaginative constructions of story, and enhance their confidence in oral presentation. They hopefully come away with at least one story they can tell with confidence, and the tools to make and tell many more--be they personal narratives, imaginary tales, or oral reports.
Recent Artist Residencies include Parker and Arts & Technology Academy. Recent Assemblies include Delight Valley.
Kelly Thibodeaux (Fiddle and Song: Music of Louisiana Culture - Residency or Assembly)
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Kelly Thibodeaux is a professional fiddle player from Louisiana and is the founder and front man for the popular band Etouffee. For the past 25 years, he has performed throughout the U.S. and Canada and has written, recorded and published four CDs of original songs. Kelly’s composition "Cassine Swamp" was included on the 20th Oregon Governor's Arts Award CD "Cascadia," and two of his other compositions were included in a 2003 PBS broadcast program.
With Kelly, students learn enough basic playing techniques to perform at least one complete tune and learn the fiddle part to their own original song composition. Students also learn how to present their newly acquired musical skills through performances with guitar and vocal accompaniment. All instruments supplied by the artist.
The art of songwriting / "tunesmithing" is presented and utilized to complete the students musical experience. The program is flexible to students’ different grade levels and time and schedule constraints, but at least four contact hours is necessary for successful participation in the instrument instruction.
"Kelly taught everyone so much about music and fiddling! This was a highlight of our school year. Every student was successful. All students were given a chance to shine through Kelly's patient and encouraging guidance. Many students have been inspired to continue playing the violin." Carmen Robinson, 4th Grade Teacher, Lacomb Elementary
"A wonderful experience for every student! We had a benefit dinner where students played for a crowd and then Kelly played. It was fantastic!" Jennifer Meckley, Principal, Lacomb
"I had a talent young guy that can "drum" - Kelly let him attend additional classes and drum for them and also at our benefit dinner. It really meant a lot to the young man and his family. He struggles with many parts of school so having this very positive experience was wonderful for him." Lorie Shafer, Lacomb Elementary
"Many students asked how to continue lessons after Kelly left. Parents are knocking themselves out in order to make sure their child can register" Kathryn Osborn, arts coordinator, Second Grade teacher, Charlemagne
"... a great experience for some of our special needs children who found playing an instrument very rewarding. Our TAG students also found the experience to be something that they would like to pursue in the future. Kelly was very easy to work with. The experience was A plus." Pam Nelson, Territorial Elementary (Junction City District)
Recent Artist Residencies include Lacomb (Lebanon), Charlemagne, Adams, Camp Creek, Territorial, Arts & Technology Academy.
Performance Assembly
A 40-minute musical and story-telling presentation of Louisiana culture with Kelly Thibodeaux on the fiddle and accompanied by a guitarist. Kelly plays original and traditional fiddle tunes and sings original songs to illustrate the various cultural highlights of life down in southern Louisiana .... songs about alligators, swamps, fishing, and eating crawfish ("mudbugs" ). Also included in the show is a brief demonstration of the violin and the many magical sounds that it can produce, such as the imitation of the sound of hurricane winds. (Kelly was in New Orleans when Katrina hit in 2005.)
Recent Performance Assemblies include Coburg, Creslane.
Performance Assemblies
Residency Artists offering Assemblies:
· Alseny Yansane & Andrea DiPalma -- African Music and Dance
· Jose Cruz - Latin Rhythms
· Maggie Matoba -- Hawaiian Music and Cultural Arts
· Kelly Thibodeaux -- Fiddle and Song: Music of Louisiana Culture
Assembly-only Performing Artists:
· Josh Humphrey -- North Indian Classical Music with Tabla and Oud
· Christopher Leebrick - Storytelling
· Paul Prince - World Music with Harp and Guitar
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