What Are People Saying About Chesterfield Arts?

Volunteers:
"I was introduced to Chesterfield Arts through a neighbor who knew I liked creative endeavors. The first thing that impressed me was the idea that each person could bring their own creativity to the group. It was not a cookie cutter approach, but what one took from the whole was theirs to take. Goals were individual and personal; there was no right or wrong, just personal satisfaction.
As a society, we focus much attention on physical gains and not quite as much on the inner creativity that often just needs encouragement to be unleashed. Art is often a great equalizer for all ages, socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds. And everyone has a bit of artist in them, even if it is not realized or acknowledged. Kudos to those who strive to help us all see our own inner potential as well as to those who financially support these projects and organizations." - Marianne B, Volunteer

Take a Seat Public Art Project:
"THANKS to you guys for giving PCMS students a once in a lifetime opportunity!!!!  Chesterfield Arts Rocks!!" - Michele M, Parkway Central Middle School Art Teacher

"The Ridge Meadows chair is coming along GREAT!!!!!!! We are finally painting!!!!! Our Theme is PLAY.  Kids can play an "I Spy" game with our smile images my 5th graders designed, which were inspired by my guest artist Bren Bataclan.  We are going to make a coloring book from the original drawings and ideas. We are just loving this project!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! " - Linda S, Ridge Meadows Art Teacher

Poetry Out Loud (February 18, 2012):
"Thanks for the pictures!  It was a pleasure to be at Chesterfield Arts. I appreciated your warmth (and personally enjoyed a muffin!).  Thanks again for the photos and for your hospitality in hosting the regionals." - Teacher, John Burroughs School

"I had a great time and this place is buzzing about her win.  So fun, and such great exposure for poetry." - Teacher, Ladue Horton Watkins High School

Art Feast 2012:
"The event was a wonderful night out! The strolling orchestra just set the ambience to begin the evening and the swing band dancers and singer topped it off. Food and presentation were wonderful and all these lovely donations to bid on...well done everyone!" - Anonymous

"People seemed to have a great time.  Great evening.  The photos were online almost instantly after the event, and I enjoyed seeing them.  Really, an A plus job...a tremendous evening, well done for all of you!" - Pat S., volunteer and Chesterfield Arts' Ambassador
 
Classes:
"Art has taught my daughter to be playful and learn from her mistakes as well as make logical judgements. Art means everything to her and helps her have a better attitude about herself." - Parent

"Chesterfield Arts is a great place to discover art." - Hayley, age 11

"A great facility - a hidden gem." - Kim, adult student

"It's really fun and you learn a lot and make cool stuff and most every person would like it." - Hannah, age 9

"My experience at the pottery class at Chesterfield Arts was the most fun I have had in a very long time. I was so excited when I was told that I would be doing a pottery class. On my first day, I thought that it would be extremely easy because I am usually one of the best when it comes to artwork. This class was a wake up call for me, IT WAS HARD! Although I wasn’t the worst, I was not as good as most kids in the class. Being the only guy in the class may have played a part in that. I really enjoyed getting messy and building things. Before the Chesterfield Arts experience, all I would do is go to the pool every day. This definitely was an experience that I would not have been able to have without the help of Chesterfield Arts. It provided me with an art experience outside of my everyday coloring, drawing and origami. I would like to thank my teacher for helping me. There would have been no way I could’ve done it without her." - Malik H., age 13

Celebrate & Recognize Exhibit:
"We are tremendously lucky to have such a special and wonderful resource as Chesterfield Arts in our community. I credit the classes and instructors at Chesterfield Arts for re-introducing me to painting, and for that, I am forever grateful." - Debra W., artist and Chesterfield Arts student

General Comments and Stories:
“Chesterfield Arts is such an important part of Chesterfield that I cannot envision our city without it.  The arts programs have set us apart.  I remember well when the first sculptures were placed in the Central City Park; I knew the city had made that commitment to partner with the arts.  As a city, we now recognize the contributions the arts make to our city quality of life.  How rewarding to have children exposed to not just playgrounds and the pool, but art.” - Nancy Greenwood, Mayor of Chesterfield (1997 – 2001)

“I am impressed by the comments from my children regarding the outdoor art sculptures that are increasingly prevalent in the Chesterfield Valley area. Their awareness of this creativity has sparked my teens’ interest not only in the sculptures, but also in learning more about community involvement. The Make Your Mark community mural project has been a rewarding experience for my daughter, providing her with leadership skills, teamwork development, and a greater knowledge of community art.” - Theresa Campbell, Community Volunteer and Chesterfield Arts Ambassador