MORE PHOTOS FROM RIDGEWAY! Kids In Session Photo's coming soon!

PARTS for kids! wrapped up at Ridgeway Elementary School in North Vancouver on December 8th and may I say: What a success! While there were only 4 students, we all agreed that we rocked the small class size; each of these students blew me away with their expression of their own personal style!

Class began on October 13th with a discussion of style and design, who and what were our influences, how do we express ourselves, what is personal style, what kind of statements do we make, or admire, what kind of design do we like/dislike in popular culture, what is culture... After getting inspired we moved on to learning about different stones and metals, tools and names of techniques. Important to note: This ain't no beading class! The students of the PARTS for kids classes get to use amazing materials - things from the PARTS by heather private collection of inherited and salvaged goodies!

Running with their own person concept of style and creativity, each child took the skill sets learned and the materials available and was given the opportunity to run wild wherever their imagination and fiery little spirits took them. The results -some of the coolest takes of wire wrapping, mixed mediums, leather work, re-purposing and asymmetry that I have seen! Go team!

At the end of the session, we worked towards our final fashion show, establishing signature walks and poses, learning how to make the most of the runway, and the kids even hand picked their own set list: Sweet Dreams (Beyonce), Revolution (The Beatles) and ABC'S (Knaan). Luckily for us, the gym was all set up for the band concert later that night, so after writing their "set lists" describing their designs and the influences behind them, we headed to the gym to practice. I was so impressed! From lighting to runway, they had it made! A special thank you to all the families who made it out and to Principal Burlone for all her help making the finale show something to remember.

I was so thrilled with the way this session turned out. I wouldn't have been able to do it without the backing of the North Vancouver Arts Council who not only believed in my pilot program, but personally encouraged and supported me towards make it a reality in my first school. Watching these kids grow within and beyond themselves, and connect to each other was not only a pleasure, but such a gift! Getting to be a part of their creative growth and share their energy every week, reminded me of what is most important in this world: leading with your heart. May we all live life the spirit of love.

While this session has come to an end, I have received many requests to run it again in the winter/spring. So hopefully Ridgeway and PARTS will be re-united in the New year.

Speaking of new classes and support, Vancouver own multi-platform Gallery: The Beaumont Studios has joined forced with PARTS for kids! We will be running multiple sessions starting as early as January 10th, Register now, or purchase on of our adorable gift cards as a last minute holiday or birthday or even just because gift!

NEW ON THE HORIZON: PARTS jewelry classes for Adults! All the buzz at the Beaumont had Ladies without little ones, asking if they could take classes too - but of course! Recently added to my Beaumont roster are savvy adult classes please contact the BEAUMONT for more info on times, projects and start dates. (778) 371-9629. Or visit online: http://www.thebeaumontstudios.com
All Sessions will be 8 weeks.

BUT THAT'S NOT ALL, Oh no, I will also be teaching my PARTS for little ones class (Pint sized protégé) and an additional class for ages 7-12 at the Vancouver Jewish Centre:) Classes are 10 weeks. Registration is still open and classes will be on Thursdays. For more information of registrations, please call: (604) 257-5111. Or Visit online at: http://www.jccgv.com

If you are interested in hosting this fabulous program at your own establishment, community centre, school, or as a private workshop, or event, or for any media inquiries, please contact: partsbyheather@gmail.com. I am now taking bookings into Spring and Summer.

AND if you need a last minute gift, or want to peruse: The North Vancouver Arts Council Gallery is showcasing designs from the PARTS by heather 'COUTURE 09' collection as well as a few new items! The Gallery is located at Lonsdale between 3rd and 4th. http://www.nvartscouncil.ca Designs will be on display till The end of January.

Thank you for following my little blog, have a safe warm and wonderful holiday. More in the New Year!

New Locations in the New Year

The PARTS for kids! class at Ridgeway Elementary is wrapping up on December 8th with a fashion show - the kids are getting excited and photo's will follow:) I have been blown away by the creations that are cropping up. Last week, we began a foray into leather and these kids on onto something haute I tell you. I love the way they look at materials... My one male student is making a necklace from rolled leather attached with bone components, and as for the girls, there is a fabulous leather wrapped hairband swathed in neon feathers to an earth toned metallic hair piece with ribbons and suede - my mind is being blown - go team!

What I love most about this group is the friendships that are forming and how each child is creativity feeding off the others. They came in strangers and now encourage and help each other, joke with one another, share and inspire one another. It's amazing.

The fashion show wraps up before the schools band and choir concert, so we've got the set up and sound covered. There will be scooters and plenty of high fashion attitude. I can't wait to see this group kill it on the runway!

In other news, New CLASSES in the new year!

Starting January 10th, PARTS for kids! will be running sessions for multiple age groups at the Vancouver Jewish Centre (wee ones and school age) and with The Beaumont Gallery (school age and adults). We will likely have another session at Ridgeway too.

Thanks for reading!