`ECO-ART': NATURAL CREATIVITY

Leaves, twigs and other natural objects may take on new significance to children and parents participating in the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri's revamped Festivals, Families & the Arts series this year.

The program has been titled "Eco-Art" and will celebrate both art and ecology, teaching how to create art by using found objects and recycled materials.

The first program, to be held from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday at the Franklin Elementary School cafetorium, will teach leaf printing on fabric. All supplies will be provided.

The teacher will be Rita Johnson of Cape Girardeau. She teaches at the Vo-Tech School and formerly taught art at Notre Dame High School and in the Jackson schools. Johnson received her B.S. in art education from Southeast.

"The kids are going to be learning skills and making things that are useful and they're going to be respecting the environment at the same time," says Laura Brothers, administrative assistant for the Arts Council.

Johnson said Eco-Art is simply a change of focus for the Festivals, Families & the Arts series, which previously exposed children and parents to the art of other countries.

"The whole concept is to explore different cultures," Johnson says. "Now we're trying to concentrate more on local culture."

In December, the children will make a seasonal wreath from natural objects.

So far, 40 people have signed up for Saturday's program.

"I think we are going to have a good turnout," Johnson says. "It's something new and different for kids. It's an art experience they haven't been able to have in the traditional classroom."

The 10 Festivals, Families & the Arts programs are held monthly on Saturday afternoons in the Cape Girardeau-Jackson area.

Admission is $1 per person and advance registration is required by phoning 334-9233. The program is designed for children 5-13 and their parents. Children are asked to dress in "art-friendly" clothing.