This outreach program is designed to provide students opportunities to grow awareness and appreciation of the artistic and cultural contributions of Japan, increase understanding of other cultures and, help combat anti-Asian discrimination currently facing the U.S.
Arching Oaks is in a unique position to provide this program as it is the only cultural center in Central Florida that specifically promotes and teaches Japanese arts.
The majority of schools in Central Florida offer art classes one time per week for approximately 40 minutes. This outreach program is designed to supplement this timeframe while supporting the school curriculum goals that encourage cross-cultural understanding. Outreach sessions are designed to enhance students’ understanding and appreciation for cultural traditions that are different from their own and to nurture a sense of empathy for others; skills that will serve them (and society) well as they grow into adult citizens.
Arching Oaks instructors will meet with students to create a different traditional Japanese art. Sessions last one hour, take place outside of normal school hours and are facilitated by highly-qualified art instructors who are experts in their respective fields and have extensive experience teaching youth.
During the final outreach sessions at each school, students will participate in an end-of-program celebration and are given certificates of completion and “artist goody bags” containing supplies to continue making Japanese arts at home. All necessary supplies, materials and tools are provided by Arching Oaks. The schools incur no expenses.
PROJECT IMPACT:
This outreach program will impact approximately 275 individuals through its partnerships with 5 public and private schools located in Central Florida. This number includes approximately 200 students who will be directly participating in the outreach program as well as their family members who will be indirectly impacted through the projects and new knowledge and skills that their children bring home and share with them.
ANTICIPATED OUTCOMES:
• Increased overall awareness of traditional Japanese arts and culture in the Southeastern United States in an effort to counteract the wave of anti-Asian discrimination and hate crimes that are currently affecting the country.
• Providing community youth with opportunities to engage with and grow appreciation for the unique traditions of other countries and, in turn, increase overall empathy and cultural understanding.
• Reinforce school curriculum goals that encourage diversity and multi-cultural understanding.
• Provide students with additional hours in an art classroom setting and additional opportunities to develop skills associated with art-making processes.
