The Idea Factory Comes to Athens

By Philokalia Jones

Beginning Tuesday, June 17, Tuesday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., The Color of Ideas Community Arts Center (TCOI) — just off the Square at 207 E. Tyler St. — is kicking off a summer arts adventure called The Idea Factory (TIF) for kids ages 9 and older. Children hungry to develop their own ideas — be it writing poetry, writing stories, drawing, music, paperfolding, creating a newsletter, taking pictures, making videos, doing skits, playing music, singing …– are the children TCOI is hoping to engage in TIF. Stay at home Moms are warmly invited to remain with their children. Homeschoolers are more than welcome!

TCOI has all manner of materials and suggestions for creative experiments and play so even children without specific ideas are invited to be part of The Idea Factory. The only requirement is being open to giving creativity a try. Children who know what they want to do should bring their own supplies with them!

TIF is not intended to be a summer camp or a daycare program: No movies, no snacks, no video games, no adult led classes — though plenty of encouragement and suggestions will certainly be available! The goal of The Idea Factory Experience is to offer an inspiring, supportive, environment for kids to develop their own creativity.

Though The Idea Factory Experience will be offered free of charge, donations are requested. The suggestion is that children themselves put up half the donation. (If children aren’t interested in putting up a few bucks of their own money then they probably don’t belong at TIF!) Check out The Color of Ideas facebook page for a full view of what else is going on at The Color of Ideas!