[Jewelry making - Article 00732] - Re: [Orchid] Artist, Designer Education

[T.A.Masters]

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Elaine,

    I am enjoying the suggestions you are giving to Becca. They are all
    good and thoughtful. I would like to run one past you for feedback,
    and that of course is open to anyone else here on Orchid. 

    Since my first exposure to this field, and I mean in just about
    every avenue of it, I have been very dismayed to find a lack of
    minorities anywhere. 

    My experiences in Rock and Mineral Societies, have shown there to be
    vestiges of prejudices. I find this distressing, and want to be a
    part of ending it. I have never known a child of any culture to not
    love "rocks." From Rock Field Trips, come an interest in Lapidary,
    from there Smithing, and up the scale. 

    I wonder how to begin a mentor program to involve both minority
    children as well as their parents. It is time to open this up to all
    human beings. 

    Along the way I have found some kindred souls, but not very many. I
    personally have taught lapidary and basic mounting of stones in the
    after school program at the school my grandson's attended. This was
    very positive with children introducing me to their parents at
    markets in such a loving way. 

    We talk about apprenticeships, I wonder if some of us at a personal
    level can take the time to introduce the field we so much love to
    others, and bring them into local rock and mineral clubs that allow
    children to be members, many do not. 

    If there are any suggestions, please send them along. Many Societies
    are near closing because of declining membership. these Societies
    were formed after WW 2, and the members are late age. I do believe
    this is the answer to regenerating the hobby and introducing
    children to Earth Sciences and Fine Arts. 

Thanks
Terrie

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