Art school for children

Authors’ Comment

WHY ART SCHOOL?

Art has been an opportunity for self-discovery and self-awareness for me. I have explored various forms of art, from dance to
theater, sculpture, painting, and finally discovered that architecture is what suits me best. This school stems from my passion for
the arts and because they have helped me develop and see the world differently. An important role is also played by the art
school I attended, where I discovered a beautiful environment in which to grow.

WHY ART SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN?

My passion for working with children began at a young age when I myself was a child, volunteering in camps where I taught painting classes. Later on, I turned it into a job, being employed at a children's club where I teach architecture courses. I enjoy passing on everything I've learned and making a mark on young talents, watching them grow before my eyes.

The project theme aims to integrate various types of arts such as music, dance, theater, and visual arts (painting, sculpture, architecture, modeling, iconography, product design, modeling) within the Kretzulescu building.

The building, structured on basement, ground floor, mezzanine, and four upper floors, is divided in such a way that users have all the necessities to carry out the proposed activities.

The theme proposes the establishment of an art school for children aged between 5 and 18, emphasizing both their development and guidance in the field of arts. Here, they can cultivate their talent and experience entirely new things, as it is a place where creativity, art, and play come together. The school operates on a regular basis, with students invited to participate in classes and enjoy specially designed relaxation areas.

The novelty brought to this space is found both in the teaching methods and in the interior design. Classes are conducted in a relaxing manner, through play and easier understanding of concepts. Children can actively participate in lessons and have access to numerous materials to help them understand the field they wish to pursue. At the interior level, the concept leaves its mark, namely "Art in Play," allowing children to use the space as they wish, as it is modular and simple.

The building features an art gallery where students' works will be exhibited, as well as concerts and performances. Additionally, there is a craft café on the ground floor where the public can experience what is happening inside the school, making it a good place for parents while they wait for their children.

The basement serves as storage space for course materials, as well as a place where children can leave their belongings to feel free throughout the day.

Floors 1, 2, and 3 host workshops divided according to the needs of the children.

The 1st floor houses music and theater workshops, as well as a modular event hall where theater performances for parents and live concerts can be held.

The 2nd floor is dedicated to dance workshops but can become completely free when children have dance competitions and performances.

The 3rd floor is designed as a "city" with a series of fixed or mobile boxes that become monuments or pavilions, making the space truly unique. Here, painting, sculpture, architecture, modeling, iconography, product design, and modeling courses are conducted.

The innovation brought by this site is the arrangement on the 4th floor, which becomes a garden because the school needs a courtyard, and the outdoor space around the building is not as safe for supervision.

The name of the concept is Art in Play. The concept is based on a series of principles that combine the idea of art with play, thereby creating an integrated educational and creative experience for children. By integrating these principles into the concept of art in play, a stimulating educational environment is created where children not only learn about art, but also enjoy the process of creation and discovery of their own
artistic abilities and creativity. The principles is: passion for art, a different teaching approach, the flexibility of space, the connection with George Matei Cantacuzino and the Monessori theory.