Tickets:
General Ticket: $25
Member Ticket: $20
This program is supported by Emily Tisch Sussman and Kevin Craw and the Fund for Community & Education.
Join environmental artist and educator Tony Valderrama for an afternoon workshop that blends culture, art, wildlife, and music. In this one-hour session, participants will be guided through the basic techniques of working with clay as they create their own unique pinch pots, personalized in the shape of their favorite animals. As pinch pots were one of the most basic forms of Native American ceramics, Valderrama will also discuss Native American culture, incorporating flute music and artwork samples inspired by his indigenous Taino roots.
In conjunction with our current exhibition, The Ark, participants are encouraged to draw inspiration from the works currently on display at The Church. All necessary tools and materials will be provided, and created works can be taken home at the conclusion of the workshop.
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Tonito Valderrama is an internationally recognized environmental artist and educator, focusing on environmental issues like deforestation and endangered species. His work in various mediums – wood, clay, paint, and recycled materials – celebrates the human-nature connection and is influenced by his indigenous Taino heritage. Through sculptures, murals, and nature installations, Valderrama advocates for the preservation of Mother Earth. He studied art education at CW Post L.I.U. and has held prominent roles, including Director of Museum Education at Hillwood Art Museum and Lead Environmental Educator and Artist at the Quogue Wildlife Refuge for over 14 years. His works have been exhibited globally and at renowned venues like the Southampton Arts Center and Heckscher Art Museum. Founder of The Artist's Nest, Valderrama continues to share his art and education worldwide. His nature installations have won awards, and he is now the Director of the Wilderness Traveling Museum, promoting indigenous arts and culture across Long Island.