Community Art Project: Black History Fans

By Laurie Rossbach
Art Studio Manager

Here in the Art Studio at Madison Children’s Museum, we will be celebrating Black History Month in February with a community art show, featuring art made by YOU!

Our art project, called Black History Fans, will feature portraits and collages on paper fans, celebrating the achievements and struggles of African Americans—made by both adults and young artists.

Why Fans?

For a few reasons… to show you are a FAN of black history! Paper “church fans” are also a well-known sight at church services and funerals in the black community. Read on for more information about the history of fans in the black community.

Who will you dedicate your fan to?

Dedicate your fan to African American Civil Rights and community leaders, artists, musicians, scientists, sports figures…there are so many choices!

How to Participate

To contribute to our show, pick up a blank fan from the front desk, decorate it, and return to the Art Studio by February 1.

On Sunday, January 25, from 1 – 3 p.m., we will hold a Fan Collage Art Workshop for visitors to stop by and create art for the show.

For additional resources and more detailed information about our show, see below:

Help us celebrate Black History Month by decorating a paper fan to honor the triumphs and struggles of African Americans throughout history. Choose your subject and use paint, markets, collage, or mixed media to create your portrait on the black paper fan. Please include your subject’s name somewhere in your artwork, and label with your name and email or phone number if you’d like it returned after the show.

Black History Fans Grand Opening: Wednesday, February 4, 6 – 8 p.m.,
On display through April 30.

Additional Resources
History of paper fans
Black History Teaching Resources
greatblackheroes.com