Kids hand make holiday gifts at Parkersburg Art Center | News, Sports, Jobs

Haven Pickens, 4, makes a Christmas tree picture at the Art Center Saturday. (Photo by Madeline Scarborough)

PARKERSBURG — On Saturday, the Parkersburg Art Center offered a Holiday Gift Making Workshop for children ages pre-k to sixth grade.

The cost for the event was $30, but kids were provided with all of the materials needed to make five different craft items.

“We do a holiday workshop every year for the kids,” said Jessie Siefert, the education director for the Art Center. “I love seeing the kids get excited for art each year, they love making gifts to give to others.”

Funds collected by the Art Center go toward obtaining craft materials for classes and free crafting events, such as the annual Arty-Parties that will be making a comeback starting January 8.

The annual series of “Arty Parties” give children a chance to try their hands at a variety of arts and crafts activities every Saturday, starting in January and continuing through March.

Sawyer Pickens, 9, makes a decoupage candle holder. (Photo by Madeline Scarborough)

The free Arty Party program, which is sponsored by the Virginia L Neptune Foundation, will be divided into two groups this year, with pre-registration from the Art Center’s website required.

“We will be taking two groups of 12 child parent pairs each week, and will offer a to-go craft for those who can’t or don’t feel comfortable attending in person,” said Siefert.

Siefert said many of those in attendance Saturday are familiar with the Arty Parties and are excited for the season to start.

Upcoming classes at the Art Center can be viewed on their website www.parkersburgartcenter.org.

Madeline Scarborough can be reached at mscarborough@newsandsentinel.com

Melissa Ross helps her kids Christian and Ivy Ross make tree portraits at the Art Center. (Photo by Madeline Scarborough)