you ?”, and “ what is something that gives you hope for the future ?”
Beyond the prompts , children had creative freedom , they could choose to paint a scene showing a moment that stuck out to them or use colors and shapes for a more abstract effect . Each piece is personal to their individual experience yet was created while sitting next to other children who have experienced the loss of a family member .
According to Rosado , “( The ) children seemed to find joy in the brushstrokes and blending of the paints . They used it as a form of journaling . I gave tips and tricks on how to best use the acrylic paints and brushes .” Rosado goes on to explain that while each student painted on a 12x16 ” canvas , she used a ribbon and tied each piece together to create long banners that represent the unity that Valerie ’ s House has reinforced by bringing these children together and giving them a safe space to share their stories .
Valerie ’ s House is so grateful for our community partnerships to provide for our children to express their grief through visual and symbolic means .” said Amy Strom at Valerie ’ s House . “ Art and creativity play a vital role in the healing process after the loss of a loved one . This joint project offered a unique way for children who attend Valerie ’ s House a safe way to share their stories , feelings ,
and make emotional connections with others .”
This exhibition about grief , healing , and hope opened at CMON on August 15 , 2024 and will run for a limited time . Admission to the museum is required .
About the Golisano Children ’ s Museum of Naples
The Golisano Children ’ s Museum of Naples is a brain-building powerhouse and Southwest Florida ’ s first museum devoted for children and families to learn through play . With hands-on exhibit galleries , the accessible museum invites visitors of all ages to journey through the swamps of the Everglades , weave through a maze , climb a two-story banyan tree , or experiment with the water play station . Children can become a weather forecaster , a farmer , a chef , a fisherman , an artist , an architect , or a veterinarian ; explore the cold of an igloo , the whoosh of the wind , the sound of the sea , and the effects of gravity . Throughout the day special activities encourage our guests to get involved , try something new and be energized . CMON offers a variety of interactive exhibits providing kids with education , play , learning , science , technology , engineering , inventions , space exploration , art , math , storybooks , creation , building , sensory , and child development .
Connect with us : Facebook : @ childrensmuseumofnaples Instagram : @ childrensmuseumofnaples
For more information about Golisano Children ’ s Museum of Naples , or to make a contribution visit , www . cmon . org or call 239-260-1604 .
PORTFOLIO MAGAZINE 47