Art is a universal language that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a way to express oneself, to communicate with others, and to explore the world around us. For children, art can be a fun and creative way to learn and grow.
For artist Mellanny "Melai" Arguzon-Aquino, creating art with your child can be a fun but "messy" bonding experience.
The family—Melai, Tufe, young Chord
Melai is a printmaker specializing in rubbercut and mokuhanga (Japanese woodcut printing). She was with the Industrial Design Department of De La Salle College of Saint Benilde since 2008 and also taught in St. Scholastica’s College under the Fine Arts Department, as well as at the Southville International School under the Multimedia Department.
Melai is currently working towards a full-time art practice while teaching part-time in Philippine Women’s University under the School of Fine Arts and Design. She currently has two exhibits lined up: “UKIT” in BenCab Museum, April 1 to May 28, 2023; and “SPACE/PLACE” at the CCP Black Box Theater from May 16 to June 18 2023.
Melai Arguzon-Aquino (artist name "marguzon") posing with her artwork at the BenCab Museum
With such a busy schedule, how can this busy mother bond with her son, seven-year-old Chord? Why, by teaching him art, of course!
Little Chord creating art, under the tutelage of mommy Melai
Manila Bulletin Lifestyle had a chance to chat with this mother/artist/teacher. We asked her the importance of fostering creativity with your child, and how such a busy parent can still find time to bond with her kid.
As a mother, artist, and educator, how do you balance it all?
To be honest, it’s a constant struggle. I don't think I have it all perfectly balanced. There are times when I have to prioritize certain things and let others take a back seat. The key is being honest with myself and being clear about my priorities. For me, it's essential to put God first and begin each day with prayer or devotion. It sets the pace for the rest of the day.
Also, we intentionally don't have a helper or yaya. I am only able to create and teach because I have the support of my husband and my mother-in-law. They step in and take care of my son when I need to be away. To keep things organized, I rely on multiple checklists and a shared calendar with my husband.
Chord holding his artwork
Any tips on introducing children into the world of arts?
Take your children to museums, art fairs, and support local art. Also, lead by example. When Chord sees me making art and creating things, it sparks his interest to try it too. I am also mindful of allowing him to express himself in his own way through his creations. As an artist and creative educator, I sometimes catch myself wanting to influence his artistic expression according to my own preferences. I want his unique "voice" to shine through his creations, no matter the medium. For Chord, it's painting, drawing, and sculpting clay.
When your child shows you their artwork, instead of asking what it is (which might make them feel bad), encourage them to tell you more about their work. Ask them to explain the story behind the art or share their creative process with you. This will show them that you value their artistic expression and will foster meaningful conversations about their creativity.
How do you foster creativity in your child?
I believe in the power of stories, ideas, and imagination. Visual communication and creating art are forms of storytelling. Ever since Chord was a baby, we have been reading books to him, sometimes even two or three times a day. When he turned two years old, I started creating random stories for him about his stuffed toys before bedtime, and he called them "Mommy Stories.” These stories would get crazy with funny voices and sound effects. He would even join in and add to the story as I told it. His dad also has his own series of stories for him.
Now that he is seven years old, we still do it almost every night. My husband and I made a choice when we got married that our home would be a creative environment for art and music. We have also exposed Chord to different music genres to help foster creativity.
Mother and son sketching together
How do you convince your child to create things with his hands in this digital age?
We have art materials like paper, crayons, glue, clay, and lots of tape that he can easily access and are allowed to use. In our household, we have a saying, "If we can't buy a toy, we make one." So Chord has been making toys out of cardboard and tape since he learned how to use scissors safely. Moreover, his gadget time is limited to Friday nights and weekends only.
How do you find the experience of creating art with your child?
Oh, it's messy but fun! We recently participated in Prints Made in May, an annual social media event that takes place every first Saturday of May. Chord was able to design, carve, and print on his own with minimal supervision from me. I'm a proud Pinoy Printmaker mama.
Do you encourage mothers to engage in creative activities with their kids?
Yes, please do. It's a fun bonding experience. It can be messy, and it won't be perfect, but what matters most during these early years is that your child enjoys the artistic process. We aim to raise children who can think creatively, regardless of the career path they choose. Creating art is food to the soul.