Family ArtVentures: Shadow Puppets

Shadow puppets inspired by artists from Russia, China and Indonesia are the focus of this Saturday workshop for kids and adults. Mark Wavra will help students create shadow puppets to resemble the traditional rod-operated puppet form made from translucent punched-and-painted leather and decorated wood. The original inspiration for these puppets is centuries old and began with shadow play by the light of a campfire on a cave wall. The puppet characters are lit from behind and their shadows are projected on to a silk screen between the puppeteer and the audience, producing mysterious and beautiful effects. The class is geared to all age levels; no experience is necessary and materials are provided. Preregister at 888-6240. The 2011-12 Family ArtVentures series is sponsored by Target and the Woods Family & Woods House Music and Arts Fund.