Alternative Education

As a alternative arts organization, FOTA believes it is important children learn about alternative art. Children are exposed to contemporary art through public sculpture and paintings often before they learn about traditional art forms. Learning about these forms will not only enrich their arts experience but be valuable in their approach to traditional art other curriculum and societal and environmental interaction.

Thomas Frerk has a degree in design, has worked with the Art Institute, Field Museum, Museum of contemporary art, Evanston and Chicago, Park Districts, Chicago Office of Special Events, Chicago Artist Association Panel for Grants (CAAP), the Rosenwald School, and several north suburban school districts. He has been a member of the Chicago Artists Coalition (CAC) and a member and Co-Director of FOTA since 1992. He is also the Head Curator and Owner of Dix Art Mix.



(Right: Thom Frerk with a puppet at Puppetropolis)

Richard Lange has masters in elementary education and education administration and is the director of the gifted program for the Prospect Heights Public Schools. He also is a member of CAC, a founding member of FOTA and runs circa studio out of the Cornelia Arts Building.

Among some of the programs offered are:

Paper-Making and Book-Binding - explore papermaking, marbleized, end papers, bookbinding and more. One of the oldest art forms. Great accompaniment to lessons in science, environmental art, and language arts.
Color Theory and Values - basic lessons on primary, secondary and tertiary colors; as well as the importance of light and dark, light source and more. Projects include color wheels, monochromatic painting and more. A perfect introduction to artists with strong use of color and valuable lesson in the science of colors
Optical Art - learn how art can be used to manipulate images, create movement and optical illusion. An excellent introduction to several contemporary and traditional artists. Among some of the projects are thaumatrope and flipbooks.
Three dimensional drawing for K-2 - Children will be really impressed once they start using more realistic methods in their drawings. A great introduction to geometry.
Outsider art - One of the fastest growing types of art displayed in galleries today. Learn the difference between outsider art and traditional art, the history of outsider art and current trends. Projects include found object art, quiltmaking and more. An excellent lesson to accompany social studies, ethnic studies, sociology and history.
Installation and contemporary art - How does installation art differ from contemporary art. An interesting look at the cultural, social, political, traditional and non-traditional art forms that make up installation art. Projects range from small non-associative art to large group projects.
Puppetry and performance art - Thomas Frerk, named Grand Master Puppeteer by the City of Chicago and as seen on FOX News, WMAQ, WLS, WTTW and Channel 20, offers workshops featuring a potpourri of puppet making, form envelope, sock, marionette and paper mache puppet. Students also learn about the visual and non-visual elements of performance art including creating a character, a setting, voice and facial features as well as scripting and creating a message.

These are just sample of some of the programs offered. Length and depth of program is tailored to your specific needs. Be as serious or fun as you want. For more information on these programs please get in touch with us at the above numbers or at 773.384.5142. Class size is generally 10 students or 15-20 with a teacher's aide or teacher present. Prices vary $20 - $50 per class depending upon length of program and does not include material costs.

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