Article Analysis

Flying Creatures — Kite-Making Workshop

This workshop was deeply informed by ideas from art education and critical pedagogy. Olivia Gude (2009) writes that engaging freely with materials supports the development of identity and perception. I saw that firsthand as participants added colors and shapes in personal, intuitive ways. Even without much verbal exchange, there was a shared rhythm of making that felt meaningful.

Maxine Greene (1995) reminds us that imagination allows us to enter other people’s realities — “that is how community begins.” I believe this workshop offered that kind of imaginative pause in a busy public space. It created an unexpected moment of presence and connection. Paulo Freire’s (1970) vision of co-constructed knowledge also shaped my approach. Rather than giving instructions, I offered materials, prompts, and space — and participants shaped the experience themselves.

I also drew from Malchiodi (2015), who emphasizes how somatic awareness and creative play can reduce stress and support emotional regulation, especially in children. The breathing prompt helped ground people before painting. Finally, Susan Sontag (1966) encouraged me to let go of interpretation — to trust that art can simply be felt. That’s what I tried to offer.

Bibliography:

Gude, O. (2009). Art education for democratic life. Art Education, 62(6), 6–11.

Greene, M. (1995). Releasing the imagination: Essays on education, the arts, and social change. Jossey-Bass.

Freire, P. (1970). Pedagogy of the oppressed. Herder and Herder.

Malchiodi, C. A. (2012). The soul's palette: Drawing on art’s transformative powers for health and well-being. Shambhala Publications.