Sometimes it’s difficult to engage kids in the arts, especially when museums often focus on a more adult audience. However, that kind of attitude is quickly changing, with many Dallas museums featuring creative programs to get kids interested in the art world. Museums in Dallas do this by offering a range of programs that inject playfulness and fun into art through performances, art-making, storytelling, and many other exciting activities. Here are five Dallas art museums that will leave both you and your kids smiling!
1. An Art Paradise for Children
The Dallas Museum of Art offers plenty of free, kid-friendly art programs and interactive exhibits where children as young as two can get in on the action. Arturo the parrot is not only the museum’s mascot, but also a friendly guide helping your children gain a deeper appreciation for art. He hosts a number of programs for children ages two to five, featuring stories, art projects, and a journey through the museum galleries. The DMA also offers a Late Nights program on the third Friday of every month, where kids can make their own art, attend special workshops, and even practice yoga. But that’s not all — the DMA offers additional family-inspired programs, including workshops, classes, and a summer art camp.
2. A Little Slice of Asia in Downtown Dallas
The Crow Collection of Asian Art features an impressive range of paintings and sculpture, plus plenty of activities and adventures for kids! The Adventure Asia program, for example, is held on the first Saturday of every month and is free to attend. There, your child can learn about art through dance sessions, face painting, and art projects. When it comes to Dallas art museums, this one stands out from the rest as a great interactive experience.
3. Meeting the Spanish Masters
The Meadows Museum, another outstanding Dallas art museum, focuses on the work of great Spanish artists such as Picasso, Juan Gris, and Jusepe de Ribera. You can foster an appreciation for these beautiful paintings even prior to your visit by downloading interactive PDFs that include thought-provoking questions. Given the broad range of Spanish painters on display, this museum also helps kids gain an appreciation for art outside the United States, exposing them to the diversity of paintings and sculptures that other countries have to offer.
4. Teaching Your Child Form, Function, and Fun
While the Nasher Sculpture Center features exquisite sculptures from around the world, grown-ups aren’t the only ones invited! Target First Saturdays are designed to get kids involved and interested in art, and it’s free for both adults and children. Their typical events calendar is also full of scavenger hunts, guided family tours of the museum, art demonstrations for kids, and storytelling. Also available is the Nasher Kids Camp, allowing kids to explore their artistic side in a fun camp environment.
5. Further Education and Student Contests
The Goss-Michael Foundation features British Contemporary art along with plenty of educational options for kids and young adults. The foundation offers an educational program with ever-changing workshops. These hands-on workshops can give your child a huge sense of accomplishment and encourage further artistic discovery!
With all of these options, Ii’s clear that Dallas art museums are committed to making sure the next generation has a vested interest in the arts. Bring your kids to any one of these great spots and get them started on a journey that will last a lifetime!
Photo by Ingrid Truemper
Suzy S.