Arts for All at Garfield Park | Art Activities for Families

The Garfield Park Arts for All program is a fun, educational, and interactive way to try out a new medium with a variety of themes inspired by the Art Center’s monthly exhibit.

Off the main hall on the third floor is a small art studio. There are stairs or an elevator to get you there. The studio is small, but would comfortably fit around 15 people. They ask you to call ahead if your group is larger than six so they can make accommodations at (317) 327-7135. They have tables, folding chairs, all the necessary supplies for the project of the month, a clean-up station, aprons to protect your clothes, and a great step-by-step guide to show you how to complete your own masterpiece.

The Arts for All project in May used pastel oils and examples of what to create had been inspired by Georgia O’Keefe. A selection of paper and a huge variety of pastel oils were available to the budding artists. My 2 year old and my 6 year old had fun creating large petal flowers reminiscent of O’Keefe. They followed along with the posted suggestions. Both kids worked on shapes and blending their lines to create seamless blooms. I was actually surprised it held their attention for more than 30 minutes. Once they grew restless, we explored the building. The Garfield Park Art Center reminds me of an art gallery. They have the facility covered in artwork from the sculpture above you as you walk in the front door to every wall and every stairwell in between.

The Art Center’s theme changes monthly, so you’ll be sure to find the perfect project for your little Picasso. Other themes have included “Picasso Blues,” “Islamic Stained Glass,” and “Scratch Art Comics”.

The Garfield Part Art Center is a very well maintained facility. You can tell that upkeep is a priority. The building has rentals available and can accommodate parties of up to 200. The bathrooms are handicap accessible and both the men and women’s restrooms have changing tables. There is a larger family restroom with an extra-long changing table for those who need more room.

Just outside the Art Center is a wonderful playground surrounded by mature trees and shaded benches. There is a toddler area with various climbing features and slides. They also have a couple baby swings and a sandbox! For the older kids the equipment is plentiful; swings, monkey bars, slides, and climbing equipment. The park has plenty of shaded or covered picnic tables, a beautiful 2-story pergola. The pool is visible from the park and is set to open mid to late June (due to remodeling)

Make sure you check out the rest Garfield Park too! They host many activities–Family Game Night is a fan favorite–and a farmer’s market every Saturday, May through October from 9 am-12:30 pm. The first Saturday of every month the farmers’ market and the Art Center have special free events from 9-11 am at the market! Grab some fresh produce and baked goods, head to a shady bench and enjoy while the kiddos burn off some energy at the playground then stop inside the Art Center to cool off and create your very own masterpiece.