Art workshops foster community in Arlee
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ARLEE — Community members, parents and children in grades three and up gathered for a morning of hands-on art Nov. 1 at the Arlee Community Development Corporation.
The Creative Tile Mosaic workshop was led by local artist Sean Parson, whose work is currently on display at the CDC.
“To make art inside the gallery, surrounded by the art, with the artist, is an extremely rare way to host an art exhibition, but is what makes the workshops so magical,” explained Cameron Decker, manager of the Arlee CDC arts program.
With 21 years of experience in tiling, Parson shared his passion, expertise and insights for the unique and intricate art form. Parson’s interest in mosaic tiling was first sparked while doing commercial tiling at a client’s house. The homeowner expressed an interest in a large tile mosaic for his shower that reflected the beauty of Montana. Parson said he experienced a flood of ideas and began sketching out a mosaic that included mountains, elk, and the Clark Fork River. His client, he said, was immediately sold. Using the extra tile scrap from his client’s shower, Parson made his first mosaic. Since then, Parson makes every art piece with reclaimed materials, to reduce waste.
For the Nov. 1 community event, Parson brought a surplus of buckets with unique tiles, for people to pick materials from. Finding great inspiration in nature, wildlife, and sound, Parson encouraged workshop attendees to call upon their own inspirations in creating their mosaics.
Attendees expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn the art form and create together. One person said, “This is just the first mosaic of many to come,” while another said it re-sparked her interest in the arts.
The CDC art workshops bring the community together through art – by providing a platform for artistic expression, and fostering a sense of community through shared creative experiences.
“Art is a big part of life here in Arlee and the Jocko Valley,” reads the Arlee CDC website. “For years, the building that now houses the Arlee CDC was the Hangin’ Art Gallery. We’re proud to carry on that tradition with displays by local artists, art workshops, and special events. You’re welcome to come in and see our current displays during our gallery hours, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., or by appointment. Call 406-370-3358.”
