Arts in Education
Overview
Since 1987, Rutgers-Camden Center for the Arts (RCCA) has provided innovative arts-based programs designed to serve the children, older youth, teachers, adults, and seniors of Camden, New Jersey. In response to increasing demand for these services, RCCA’s Education, Enrichment & Community Arts Programs (EECAP) have grown significantly in quality, scope, and depth. In general, the EECAP programs are designed to: a) build skills and abilities within various arts disciplines; b) foster self-awareness of individual artistic assets; c) augment knowledge of the arts in historical and cultural context; d) increase understanding of the arts as integral to the quality of life; and e) promote regular participation in a wide range of arts.
Program Overview:
The EECAP staff has considerable experience applying current research to the design of programs addressing the specific needs of Camden’s residents. The EECAP’s highly qualified full-time staff consists of the Curator of Education & Community Arts, Associate Curator of Education/Museum & D’ARTS Specialist, and Community & Artists Projects Manager (bilingual). As mentioned, the program also has a diverse roster of professional teaching and project artists in the visual, literary, and performing arts. The EECAP is further supported by the Education Advisory Board – educators, scholars, and administrators who provide information on best practices and advise on program evaluation.
EECAP Staff:
Out-of-school programs provide engaging, guided arts activities in various disciplines and media:
- Arts After School - teaching artists conduct dynamic, sequential arts programs;
- Summer Art Soup, free for Camden groups serving children and youth, and including:
- Gallery Quest - visual and cultural arts explorations and hands-on arts creation;
- Stories in Words, Pictures & Movements - enhancing literacy for ages 3 - 6;
- Artists @ Work – live performances by and conversations with professional artists;
- Arts Internships – paid positions for qualified Camden high school students.
EECAP Staff:
Noreen Scott Garrity, Chief Curator of Education & Community Arts
Voice 856-225-6306
ngarrity@camden.rutgers.edu
Lynda Hitchman, Assistant Curator of Education
Voice 856-225-6202
ljhitch@camden.rutgers.edu
Carmen Balcazar Pendleton, Community and Artist Programs Manager
Voice 856-225-6676
almavida@camden.rutgers.edu
Jaime Lyn Konowal, Patron Sales and Services Manager
Voice 856-225-6676
jkonowal@camden.rutgers.edu
