Today at the “Family Valley” Center, the Creative Missions workshop began with laughter, excitement, and a splash of creative energy. Artists Kolya and Olesya invited unaccompanied children from Ukraine to take part in a playful experiment—blowing paint across blank sheets of paper. In no time, the tables were covered in vibrant, cheerful splotches of color.
Some kids blew with all their might, eyes squeezed shut in concentration. Others were more hesitant, carefully testing the waters. The artist-educators patiently encouraged each child, reminding them that the goal wasn’t perfection, but rather the courage to try, play, and express themselves freely.
This simple, joyful technique helps children see art as a process of exploration and fun. It offers them a moment to pause and be present—with no pressure, no rules, just creative freedom.Those colorful blotches—big and small—were just the beginning. The real magic happened when imagination kicked in. What if, by adding a pair of eyes or a giant mouth, a brand-new creature emerged from the page? “My creature needs big ears—so it can hear everything!” declared seven-year-old Artiom, carefully drawing not just ears but also oversized teeth.
“My creature will have wings so it can fly anywhere it wants!” added Maksim. On his paper, a huge purple blotch was already transforming into a quirky, winged being full of personality. The most important thing? Letting kids create without limits. That’s what unleashes their imagination and gives them a taste of the creative freedom they crave.
An hour later, the classroom was buzzing with color, laughter, and imaginative discoveries. Every drawing became a tiny window into each child’s inner world—revealing dreams, fears, joys, and hopes. These kinds of sessions do more than nurture creativity—they also help children relax and simply be kids. For a while, they can forget the worries beyond the classroom door.
The final moments were filled with chatter and last-minute touches—some kids rushing to finish their creatures’ wings, others sharing what their imaginary beings like to eat or when they’ll celebrate their birthdays. “This one will protect me when I sleep,” said Artiom seriously, proudly holding up his creation.
Creative Mission reached its goal: the children embraced creativity, took bold risks, and discovered just how powerful their imaginations can be. Today, more than just pictures were born—something truly meaningful took shape.
Artscape’s Creative Missions Artists: Kolya and Olesya
“Our goal at Family Valley,” explain the artists, “is to design activities that help kids focus—even just for half an hour. Outside of workshops, they’re constantly moving. So we want to offer them moments to sit down, concentrate, and enjoy the results of their creativity.” The creation of mythical creatures was one of the first activities introduced at the center—and it left a lasting impression.
About the Creative Missions Program
Since 2015, Artscape has worked with migrants and refugees to expand access to culture and strengthen community ties through professional art productions and educational initiatives. By collaborating with artists, local communities, and vulnerable groups, the agency fosters self-expression, active civic engagement, and socially responsible solutions—driving meaningful social change through the power of art.
Donate today. Help us bring the light of creativity to those who need it most.
June 15, 2025
