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The program uses visual arts and dance to teach the culture, history, and values of Caribbean cultures in an authentic, engaging way that connects with the heritage of many students in Hartford school... Read more

The program uses visual arts and dance to teach the culture, history, and values of Caribbean cultures in an authentic, engaging way that connects with the heritage of many students in Hartford schools. Caribbean visual artist and dancer Clerona Cain will guide students in learning about Caribbean community celebrations, making a Carnival headdress, and performing with their headdresses in parade formation as a group.

Kate Schramm (Facilitator) is a museum professional and folklorist who directs the Department of Cultural Sustainability. She will produce a study guide and curriculum as a learning tool for the art form.

1st visit: Clerona greets the class and asks them to greet her. Using a discovery process, she demonstrates a Parade Walk, wearing her Carnival costume and moving rhythmically to music. She then asks the students to comment on what they observed, with guided questions such as: What did you see? What did you hear? Why am I wearing this outfit? What does my costume and movement remind you of? When do you think I wear this and move like this? Is there something in your life like this? Have you ever seen this before? She fills in some information about Carnival and its relation to cultural values and its celebration in Hartford. She shows examples of headdresses created in the summer Mas Camp. She asks how students might design a headdress using the poster board templates provided. She asks them to select a character or theme that they will use. They draw a design and colors on paper and begin to make their headpiece, cutting out the shape and then selecting colored feathers, ribbons, beads, and other decorations that fit their character. Pre-organized materials are all displayed on a table at the front of the class, or handed out to each student. Clerona, Kate, the teacher, and adult volunteers assist students with beginning the process, selecting materials, translating their designs into the piece. Clerona then has the students practice a simple dance step to music. They either parade around the room with their headdresses, or dance in place. The headdresses are theirs to take home. Before leaving she asks them to find out more information about Carnival in the Caribbean.

Grades 6 and 7 have a deeper discussion with students presenting what they have learned about Carnival, and asking questions. Grade 6 focuses more on geography, natural resources, social context of Carnival, Grade 7 more on culture and how West Indians came to America (including history and immigration). Group Parade performance is for all grades.

Each classroom will require about 15 minutes of setup before the class begins. We also require access to electrical outlets, as facilitators use hot glue to adhere headpiece ornamentation. ... Read more

Each classroom will require about 15 minutes of setup before the class begins. We also require access to electrical outlets, as facilitators use hot glue to adhere headpiece ornamentation.

Breakdown and cleanup also requires 10-15 minutes after the class. For multiple classes on the same day, it is best when possible to remain in the same room.

All the supplies needed for making headdresses (cardboard templates/hot glue/feathers/glitter/ribbon/beads/sequins)Examples of headdresses for students to try onCD of music and boombox... Read more

All the supplies needed for making headdresses (cardboard templates/hot glue/feathers/glitter/ribbon/beads/sequins)
Examples of headdresses for students to try on
CD of music and boombox
Illustrated study guide--sent to teacher

Tables for students to work on the craft; scissors, tape, pencils, markersSmart board (or computer/projector) for projecting our information (if possible)Assistance with bringing supplies ... Read more

Tables for students to work on the craft; scissors, tape, pencils, markers
Smart board (or computer/projector) for projecting our information (if possible)
Assistance with bringing supplies into the school
Parking spaces for two cars (artist and facilitator)
Access to electrical outlets

Students will share their understanding of the Caribbean, West Indies, and Carnival cultural traditions with program facilitators, and will think about what they mean and how they came to Hartford.... Read more

Students will share their understanding of the Caribbean, West Indies, and Carnival cultural traditions with program facilitators, and will think about what they mean and how they came to Hartford.
Students will create a Carnival headdress using the same kinds of materials that are seen in Carnival Parades.
Students will dance and parade through the classroom (or the school!) to soca music, to imagine the experience of Carnival.