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Masur Museum of Art, a FREE Local Hotspot for Families!

Free Summer Fun, Home Art Idea, and a Scavenger Hunt, Oh My!

By Missy Robertson, Publisher Macaroni Kid, Monroe-West Monroe July 3, 2024

Are you looking for a fresh, fun, and educational family outing this summer? Look no further than the Masur Museum of Art! This charming museum offers a wealth of experiences that will engage and delight visitors of all ages. One of the highlights this season is the captivating exhibit, "The River is Road: Paintings by George Rodrigue." Rodrigue, a celebrated Louisiana-born artist, is best known for his iconic "Blue Dog" paintings, which have captured the imaginations of art lovers around the world. With children everywhere currently enamored with whimsical blue canines, this exhibit will surely be a hit with your little ones.

Imagine the joy on your children's faces as they explore the colorful world of Rodrigue's art, spotting the delightful Blue Dog in various settings and scenarios. The exhibit not only provides an opportunity for families to appreciate art together but also offers a chance to learn about Louisiana's rich cultural heritage. This shared experience can spark meaningful conversations and inspire a love for art in your children.

To extend the fun and learning beyond your visit, why not make it a summer project? Encourage your kids to recreate their favorite Blue Dog painting or write a story about what the Blue Dog might be up to in one of Rodrigue's works. This activity promotes creativity, storytelling, and artistic expression. Plus, it's a wonderful way to bond with your children as you discuss their interpretations and ideas. 

Here are 10 questions to get you started:

  1. What do you think Blue Dog was doing before it appeared in the painting?
  2. If Blue Dog could talk, what kind of stories do you think it would tell?
  3. Imagine Blue Dog has a special power. What is it, and how does it use this power in its adventures?
  4. Who are Blue Dog's friends, and what kind of adventures do they go on together?
  5. What kind of world does Blue Dog live in? Describe its surroundings, including any magical or unusual elements.
  6. If Blue Dog could travel anywhere in the world, where would it go and why?
  7. What is Blue Dog's favorite activity, and how does it spend its day when it's not in the painting?
  8. Does Blue Dog have any secrets? What are they, and who knows about them?
  9. Imagine Blue Dog meets another animal from a different painting. What happens during their encounter?
  10. What kind of challenges or obstacles does Blue Dog encounter, and how does it overcome them?

These questions not only encourage children to think creatively and expand on what they've seen but also help them practice narrative structure and character development.

So pack up the family and head to the Masur Museum of Art for a memorable and enriching experience that will leave you all inspired and entertained!






Phillip Gautreaux on a Scavenger Hunt at The Masur Museum

Bonus Fun: As you walk into the museum, look to your left to find the visitor center. There, you'll discover a delightful surprise: information about a fun scavenger hunt that involves the museum's art collection. This interactive activity is designed to engage visitors of all ages, making your museum experience both educational and entertaining.

General admission is always FREE, but donations are always welcome.


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