SPARK! ARTS PROGRAM

ROCKFORD AREA ARTS COUNCIL

Introduction to the Community Art Education Program

The Community Art Education Program is a flexible, immersive, and impactful arts curriculum designed to support the creative, emotional, and social development of children. Led by local professional artists, this 10-week program offers 4 hours of structured art instruction per day and can be customized for each organization, whether that means small classroom groups or large summer camps. Classes can be scheduled between 2 to 5 days per week, providing a scalable model that fits the unique needs of each community center, school, or youth program.

For cost efficiency and planning, a detailed breakdown is available—including materials, instruction, and setup costs—with tools to estimate total and per-student pricing.

For more information or to bring this program to your organization, please contact the Rockford Area Arts Council.

The Power of Art in Child Development

Art education is far more than an enrichment activity—it's a vital part of a child's cognitive, emotional, and social growth. Through creative expression, children develop self-confidence, patience, and the ability to communicate feelings that might otherwise go unspoken. In a nurturing art environment, they learn to problem-solve, take risks, and build resilience.

Beyond the personal benefits, art-making in a group setting cultivates empathy, cooperation, and respect for diverse perspectives. It also offers a safe space for self-reflection and stress relief, which is particularly important in today’s overstimulated and often pressured environments.

Why Local Artists Matter

One of the most unique and empowering aspects of this program is that instruction is delivered by local professional artists. These artists bring real-world experience, cultural knowledge, and community relevance into the classroom. They not only teach technical skills in painting, drawing, and mixed media—but also serve as living examples of creative career paths and mentorship.

Having artists from the same neighborhoods as the children they teach builds trust, pride, and cultural continuity. It also keeps arts funding and talent circulating within the local economy.

This adaptable, community-rooted program ensures that no matter the size or structure of your organization, you can offer meaningful, high-quality art education to the children you serve.

For inquiries, partnerships, or to schedule a course, please contact the Rockford Area Arts Council.

The Details: Breakdown Of Spark! Arts 10-Week Program

Art Supplies Cost Estimate (Per Student)

Item Estimated Price (USD)

Canvas Panel (8x10")

$1.50 – $3.00

Basic canvas panels are available in multi-packs, reducing the per-unit cost.

Child-Sized Smock/Apron

$5.00 – $10.00

Prices vary based on material and design; bulk purchases may offer discounts.

Basic Plastic Palette

$1.00 – $3.00

Simple palettes suitable for student use are widely available at low cost.

Basic Brush Set (5–10 pcs)

$5.00 – $10.00

Student-grade brush sets are affordable and often come in multi-packs.

Acrylic Paint Set (12 colors)

$9.99

Mont Marte 12-piece acrylic paint set is priced at $9.99 on Amazon.

Watercolor Paint Set

$3.35 – $13.86

Options range from Prang washable sets at $3.35 to Sakura Koi sets at $13.86.

Watercolor Paper Notebook

$5.00 – $10.00

Prices depend on paper quality and sheet count; student-grade notebooks are within this range.

Pack of Markers (12–24 pcs)

$5.00 – $10.00

Basic marker sets suitable for students fall within this price range.

Pencil

$0.25 – $1.00

Standard pencils are inexpensive, especially when purchased in bulk.

Paper Sketchbook

$5.00 – $10.00

Sketchbooks vary in price based on size and paper quality; student versions are typically within this range.

Small Reusable Plastic Cup

$0.50 – $1.00

Simple plastic cups for water use are low-cost and reusable.

Small Eraser

$0.50 – $1.00

Basic erasers are inexpensive, with prices decreasing when bought in bulk.

Total Estimated Cost Per Student: $46.59 – $82.85

This range accounts for variations in product quality and brand. Purchasing items in bulk or as part of kits can lead to additional savings. For instance, some comprehensive art kits include multiple items from this list, potentially reducing the overall cost.

Shared Classroom Supplies (One-Time Purchase)

Item Estimated Price (USD)

Paper Towels (10 Rolls)

$10.00 – $15.00

Bulk packs of paper towels are available at major retailers.

2-Gallon Buckets (Set of 3)

$15.00 – $30.00

Prices vary based on material and brand; available at hardware stores and online.

Fast Orange Hand Cleaner (1 Gal.)

$19.99

Available at True Value Hardware.

Mobile Storage Cabinet (36"x24"x78")

$528.84 – $869.00

Options include Sandusky cabinets available at Walmart and National Business Furniture.

Mobile Art Drying Rack

$89.99 – $549.00

Prices vary based on size and material; options available at Walmart and Whitney Brothers.

Dish Liquid (Large Bottle)

$5.00 – $10.00

Brands like Dawn are available at major retailers.

Spray Bottle of "Awesome Cleaner"

$1.00 – $3.00

Available at dollar stores and discount retailers.

Subtotal (Shared Supplies): $669.82 – $1,496.99

Sample Scenarios: A Look At The Program’s Adaptability

Photo Credit: Albert Cheeks Riley, Jr.

Info / Proposal by Nathan Taylor