I had the pleasure, recently, to be introduced to an environmental art non-profit program in the Mac-Groveland neighborhood of St. Paul.

ArtStart teaches kids to be stewards of the environment by making art out of stuff that would otherwise be thrown away.

Kids learn about the environment in various ways: watching parents recycling, a school program (which are fewer because of budget cutbacks), or spending time outside in nature. Another way to be introduced to anything new is through art. ArtStart makes the connection to protect the environment in a emotional yet practical way by combining creating something fun or useful with striving for an environmental good like zero waste or re-use.


ArtStart's founder, Carol Sirrine, has teamed up with the Living Green Expo this spring to bring a sense of whimsy and the fun of creative activities for kids of all ages to the Expo. On Saturday, May 7th everyone is welcome to join the Green On Parade at 1 p.m. at the Minnesota State Fair Grounds in St. Paul. The parade starts at the Creative Arts Building and runs along Cosgrove Ave. Musicians, dancers, stilters, and more will lead kids that show up, in a parade complete with costumes and hats and masks that the kids have created.

ArtStart is getting kids involved early in the parade by helping them make funny hats and Minnesota animal masks out of recycled materials like bubble wrap, foam and colorful Mylar stickers that can be cut into cool shapes. Artists will help kids ages 4-17 make their green headpiece over the next month for the parade. To get a child involved:

•Stop by Art Start through May 1 to pick up a "grab bag" of art supplies and templates for $5. (Hours: M-F 10 a.m.-6 p.m. or Sat 10 a.m.-4 p.m.) They are located at 1459 St. Clair Avenue in St. Paul


•Participate in a workshop Sunday, April 17 or Sunday, April 30 between 12-4 p.m. to create your very own "Think Green Headpiece" and accessories out of repurposed materials. Cost $3 per child or $5 per adult. Call ahead for reservations.


•Make a headpiece or mask during the Living Green Expo on May 7th at the Art Start booth. Depending on the weather, it will be located outside near the main stage or inside the Creative Arts building.

If you are a business or company that has something in larger quantities that you want to get rid of and it could be creatively used as an art supply, contact Cindy at ArtStart 651-698-ARTS or visit their website at www.ArtStart.org. Cash donations are also welcome.

To watch the Kare11 segment: Click here...