Brush Up Your Creative Side with a Learn to Silk Paint Class
This Workshop for Grown Ups Benefits The Children’s Playhouse

Special to The Mountain Times

Detail of Kathy Parham’s silk painting “Ladyslipper.”

Detail of Kathy Parham’s silk painting “Fox Cub.”

Here is a unique mother’s day present idea: give that special mom two nights to nurture her own creativity and create a beautiful silk scarf she will enjoy for years to come. Kathy Parham, executive director of The Children’s Playhouse, is offering a special workshop for adults that will teach them the art of painting on silk.
“In just two days, you will create a beautiful silk scarf of your own design and will learn all you need to know to paint more” says Parham. The two-part workshop will meet from 3:30-6:30 on Sunday, May 11 and from 6:00-8:00 on Monday, May 12. Silk scarves and all materials will be provided. The fee is $50 for members, $60 for non-members. The class will take place afterhours at The Children’s Playhouse, 400 Tracy Circle, Boone. Call 828-263-0011 to register.

Participants are encouraged to bring photographs or drawings for inspiration.

While the class benefits the High Country’s only indoor-outdoor play space for families, The Children’s Playhouse, this particular workshop is for adults. “I think it would make a wonderful Mother’s Day present,” remarks Parham, “so often mothers are always doing for others, they don’t get time to relax and explore their own creativity.” And, of course, there is plenty of time for pleasant conversation while learning to silk paint. “The ladies who took my last class last June had a great time chatting,” says Parham.

Although Parham’s artwork has been featured in a book on textile design and has sold in the past around the country, she does not currently sell her scarves to the public. “I’m pretty busy running The Playhouse and being a mom,” says Parham, “but I love painting special scarves for special people.” Those special people have included past Playhouse presidents Ann Kiefert and Christine Anderson, as well as Playhouse co-founder Beth Darnell and former Visitor Services Manager Kay Philipp. Cards featuring details from Parham’s recent creations are available at The Children’s Playhouse.

The Children’s Playhouse

Situated in a renovated house near downtown Boone, The Children’s Playhouse’s mission is to provide children from birth to age eight with an enriching, educational play environment while at the same time offering their parents and caregivers friendly support in the important job of raising children. Stimulating arts– and science-based programs, enticing play areas and exhibits, and informative parenting resources all support this mission. Admission to The Children’s Playhouse is $5 per person. A one year Playhouse Passport Membership for $100 includes unlimited family admission to The Playhouse and more than 150 children’s museums nationwide. Scholarship memberships are available for families that meet income guidelines. Call 263-0011 for more information or click to www.goPlayhouse.org. The Playhouse address is 400 Tracy Circle, Boone. The Children’s Playhouse is supported by members, visitors, and grants from the Children’s Council of Watauga County, Watauga County, the Town of Boone, High Country United Way, Boone Service League, and Kiwanis.