This workshop for educators covers a broad spectrum of possibilities with clay for adults and children. Participants will receive ideas on taking advantage of this incredibly versatile material. Clay can be watered down into a liquid, dried to a rock-hard state, transformed into a solid by firing in a kiln. Clay has been in use since the dawn of humanity and participants will be provided with some of its rich historical and cultural associations.  Clay's artistic and educational possibilities are endless. Participants will have opportunities to hear stories about extending children's learning through clay, experience clay hands-on and get resources on clay, ceramic arts and clay tools. This event is open to Member Schools of The Alliance and registration is required (more information to come soon). 

Jesús Oviedo is a Studio Coordinator and Educational Consultant.  He has worked in education for over twenty years and exploring the Reggio Emilia Approach for 15 years at Chicago Commons and through Reggio-inspired initiatives and collaborations. Oviedo was a Wonder of Learning Exhibit Co-Chair for Chicago in 2010.  As a Studio Coordinator, Jesús works with teachers of children ages 0-12 on curriculum and professional development with a focus on the languages of materials. Jesús has a Master’s Degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and a graduate certificate in Reggio-Inspired professional development from Harvard’s Projects Zero.