Jules Gillen fosters art, creativity in local youth
Woman owns and runs Juiced on Imagination
For Loveland artist Jules Gillen, art provides a safe space to foster creativity and imagination; that space is one that she works to share with local kids so they can experience the benefit of art firsthand.
Gillen, an expressive art therapist, runs Juiced on Imagination, offering both group and individual art classes for kids, sometimes with their parents.
Gillen said when she came up with the idea for Juiced on Imagination it initially started exclusively as art therapy. But over time the program shifted to the individual and group art programs that local kids can take now. She said offering this for kids promotes self-esteem, confidence and more.
“Art is an amazing benefit for kids,” she said.
One of her returning students , Fort Collins resident and 11-yearold artist Addy Bass, came out to Gillen’s home studio Thursday for a session.
“It’s really fun,” she said. “It’s a great way to release. It’s something I look forward to every week.”
And while she has spent years teaching and working with kids for art, Gillen said the process has had just as much of an influence on herself. She said the process has allowed her to be more playful and stop overthinking, adding some of her own best-selling pieces were made during sessions.
Whether it is small sessions with just one or two students or a larger group session with moms and their babies, Gillen said she finds great benefits in all she does working with kids.
“You learn something from them every day.” she said.
How did you get into art yourself?
Most artists are sensitive and tend to think A LOT. Without going too deep into it, (while) growing up art was a language that was purely my own, belonging solely to me. Simply put, it is my way to happiness.
How did Juiced on Imagination come about?
I wanted to create a space that sparked imagination and creativity. A space that fostered the process over product. The limitations children feel elsewhere in life or learning can disappear when exploring the art process as each child can engage with art in their own way.
What is something you learned while teaching kids about art?
Authenticity. That an individual’s work is as beautiful and unique as they are. And, most recently that Paul Gauguin looks like a supervillain.
Why do you find it important to teach and foster art for kids?
The process of creating their own ar t makes children happy. Ar t goes way beyond fun. Art helps to improve fine motor skills, enhances problem-solving, encourages innovation, builds self-esteem, facilitates bonding and, as an Expressive Art Therapist, my favorite is art gives a voice beyond
words.
How can parents at home encourage art for their kids?
1. Create a workspace to make art where kids can make art home. Keep the area stocked with both tried and true supplies as well as new materials to explore. Create a shared experience.
2. Arrange a mini art gallery in your home where family and friends can view creations.
3. Read art books for ideas and inspiration. There are a lot of fantastic art appreciation books geared toward children of all ages.
4. Instill a love of ar t, visit museums. Talk about the experience together.