ArtSPARK returns!

The International Arts Center (IAC) will play host for ArtSPARK on Saturday, Aug. 30. This event starts at 10 a.m. and ends at 12 p.m. 

During the event, a children’s art activity will be led by Rebekah Alexander. Alexander is a local artist and art educator. A scavenger hunt and story time related to the activity will also take place. Snacks will be made available, as well, and kids will also be given food to feed the fish and turtles behind the IAC. 

“It’s a great way for our community members to come in and work on a creative activity together,” said IAC Director Carrie Jaxon. “I think it’s important to make these opportunities available for community members to engage with the university.” 

ArtSPARK began in 2021 as a way for the Troy community to visit the university with art as a connection tool. While the activities are mainly targeted toward younger children, everyone is welcome. This event happens monthly and alternates between an in-person activity and a packet that people are welcome to take home to create.  

Collaborations with community organizations, such as the Boys and Girls Club and Troy Resilience program, have helped to unite the community through these events. 

“It’s so important to use this program to connect as much of a diverse population in our community as possible,” Jaxon said. “We’re always looking for ways to reach out to new community members.” 

Alexander has created the art project for the event. Oftentimes, the art projects in ArtSPARK correlate with the work displayed in the IAC. However, this time the project will be independent. 

This event gives caretakers the opportunity to expose their children to the arts. Two hours are dedicated to the activities at the IAC that the community can get involved in. It also gives people the opportunity to meet the artist and practice their creativity. 

Children can learn about art and how to express themselves through it. Their caretakers and other community members can mingle and learn about the art on display as well. 

“It’s a great program for our community and our university as a whole,” Jaxon said. 

More information about ArtSPARK and other events at the IAC can be found on its Instagram page @iac_troyuniversity. Another resource is their website at www.troy.edu/student-life-resources/arts-culture/international-arts-center. 

For more information about Rebekah Alexander’s work, visit her Instagram @kerlinr.