How Metro Detroit's Youngest Students Learn Art At The DIA

DETROIT, MI — It's never too early to learn about art.

Nearly 50 kindergarteners from Emma V. Lobbestael Elementary School in Harrison Township’s L’Anse Creuse school district explored a vast collection of art from around the globe during a free field trip to the Detroit Institute of Arts.

“The DIA tailored the visit for my students, giving many of them their first glimpse at the museum’s expansive art collection from around the world,” said Nicki Mather, a kindergarten teacher at Lobbestael Elementary. “After the tour, students talked about what they learned in small groups. It was a great opportunity for them to share their experiences at the DIA with one another.”

The field trip tour took the students through galleries with pieces from all over the world and gave them unique access to art and culture they can’t experience through books, TV or the internet.

“The DIA provides one-of-a-kind field trip experiences to complement what educators are teaching in the classroom,” said Salvador Salort-Pons, DIA director. “We want our tours to encourage creative thinking and exploration and inspire students to continue learning outside the classroom.”

A leader in education, the DIA provides guided and self-guided tours, online teaching materials and resources for schools, which can be incorporated into lesson plans. Through a new partnership with L’Anse Creuse Public Schools, all students in third, fifth and seventh grade will attend free DIA field trips beginning next school year. The teachers will collaborate with the DIA to ensure the experience supports their curriculum.

The DIA provides free bus transportation and admission for students from Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties as part of the tri-county millage passed in 2012. Last school year, 14,977 Macomb County students enjoyed free visits to the DIA.

To schedule a group tour or field trip, contact the DIA at (313) 833-7981.