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Hartman Education Center

Imagine a studio where preschoolers can listen to recorded harp music while drawing a picture of Miss Florence. A classroom where teenagers gather after school to watch a video about Impressionism before trying their hand at painting en plein air. A gathering spot for a local author to read a rough draft of a new book. The list of possibilities goes on and on.

The Kelly Bill and John W. Hartman Education Center opened in the summer of 1999. Designed by architect Frederick Biebesheimer of Interdesign, the Education Center is built on the site - and in the spirit - of an original barn/studio that once stood there. The interior of the center is a light-filled, hands-on discovery classroom/studio/performance space. The fully equipped 1,100 square foot space offers flexible areas for activities, literary and dramatic presentations, and for the display of works created in the studio. Part of the Hartman Education Center is devoted to an Education Resource Library containing an outstanding selection of videos, books (including several by local authors), and educational materials that can be used by anyone visiting the studio. The center provides an inviting atmosphere for children, families, and adults to drop-in and use their imaginations and hands to experience the world of art, history, literature, and nature.

Impromptu Encounters

Every Sunday from April through December, visitors of all ages are encouraged to participate in Impromptu Encounters with Art.

The program, which is free with Museum admission, begins in the Education Center where visitors can choose from a variety of hands-on activities. In good weather, guests can even paint "en plein air" (in the open air) just as the artists did over a hundred years ago. Supplied with canvas, palette, paint, brushes, a smock and a quick lesson in color mixing and painting techniques visitors discover for themselves why Miss Florence's was THE place to paint!

Year-round programs such as workshops, summer camps and other exciting events make use of this exciting space. Visit the Calendar for events and times.