Art Explorers: Our Mission
Driving the thought and practice of diversity over conformity
The Art Explorers network of educators is committed to helping students build their knowledge in the arts while learning the know-how of creative expression without limits. We encourage students to think abstractly and find their own way, letting go of insecurity and the fear of the unknown. We are here to harness the fearlessness that lives within each student.
“Students will build a repertoire of art knowledge and artistic expression in an environment that allows them to be creative in their own ways.”
— Ariel Oki, Founder
Create
Creative exploration is one of the most powerful tools in any child’s path to self-discovery. Opening up the students minds to creativity at an early age gives them a head start on establishing and navigating their own paths.
imagine
Imagination plays a huge role early childhood development. In our wide range of classes, students will be free to explore an navigate the world of both fine and cultural arts.
be fearless
Art has the ability to unleash incredible talents inside each and every student. And at Art Explorers, students are strongly encouraged to take risks to find their inner fearlessness.
Featured Classes
Art Explorers
In this explorative class we will create different works of art while learning techniques used by many leading artists! This year we will be focusing on different cultures. From the works of the Aztecs/Mayans to contemporary street artists in Los Angeles. Students will learn about the artists’ ideas and what was happening at the time that would greatly influence their art. We will go in depth looking at each artists’ work and create art that is inspired by their ideas and approach. This processed-based class will explore these ideas. Students will be able to unlock their unlimited artistic abilities and create beautiful works of art!
Art Lab (new!)
Join Art Explorers for our brand new Art Lab class! Students will enjoy exploring new techniques and strengthen existing ones. We will work with mediums such as printmaking, paint, mixed media, drawing and more. This interactive class allows students to delve into their personal interests whether it is abstraction, animals, comic books, portraiture, etc. There are no limits when it comes to art. Students will feel empowered to create beautiful works of art!
Creative Dance
Dancing unleashes creativity while promoting self confidence. Encouraging students to express themselves through music and movement boosts poise and determination. In this class, we will explore many different styles of dance including (but not limited to) Hip Hop, Jazz-Funk, Square/Line dance, and elements of Ballet. Each week students will practice stretching properly and warming up. Basic steps will be demonstrated and utilized in many ways. Students will be encouraged to elaborate on the steps they are given and are free to explore their own dance interests. A performance at the end of the session will wrap up this fabulous class. Come learn something new and add to your dance skills!
A few words from the parents
“I could see after the second art class that my daughter took with Ms. Oki, she became more creative & visionary when drawing.”
“The children have learned about so many types of art and medium to use when producing different art projects. She is friendly, caring, and very conscientious about her work with her students. The work posted around the school brightens up the hallways and gives us a glimpse into what the children are learning.”
“My two sons love Art Explorers! My third grader loves the fun activities, and learning about many different artists. He has also enjoyed amazing field trips to the Getty Center and the Broad Museum arranged by Ms. Oki. ”
“They have the gift to bring out the artist that each of the students has inside and didn’t know.”
“My daughters understood very well that Ms. Oki’s art class is not an extracurricular activity, is a colorful learning time.”
“Ms. Oki is an awesome art teacher! The children have learned about so many types of art and medium to use when producing different art projects. She is friendly, caring, and very conscientious about her work with her students. The work posted around the school brightens up the hallways and gives us a glimpse into what the children are learning.”
“Ms. Oki’s art teaching skills have helped my daughter be more focused and patient while she draws.”
“The results of working hard and listening very well to the curriculum bring out qualities of my daughters that I see reflected in their drawings.”
“My first grader thinks Ms. Oki is so much fun to be with, and is looking forward to his own field trip to LACMA. I have really enjoyed looking at the beautiful displays of every student’s art projects that Ms. Oki puts together, and even get to learn a little bit more about art from the thoughtful biographies and descriptions Ms. Oki posts to accompany these displays. Art Explorers has really enriched our school’s curriculum.”