June Newsletter - Rachel's Whimsical Art

“Be Kind. Let’s Shine!” Rachel Simpson

While these times are challenging on so many levels from being emotionally, mentally and physically straining,  I’m still teaching art, creating art, & sharing as much as I can with you: families, artists, locals, essential workers, non-profits, schools, and younger generations in our community of Bellingham. It’s taken me a long time to think about how to write this to all of you. Throughout all the hardships that we’re all experiencing, at some point, we all have to face some kind of big decision.

I’ve reached a big goal that I’ve had for the past 12+ years, in Art Education. I’ve accepted a full-time Art Teaching position at the Franklin Academy School for next school year, beginning in the fall. This means two things… I’m thrilled to be at this school that’s full of great students (K-8th grades), experienced and friendly faculty, caring families, and in a community all of it’s own. Also, I will have to say farewell and best of wishes to the Elementary Schools that I’ve been working with for the past 6 years with after school enrichment art classes, & worked closely with Allied Arts of Whatcom County as a Teaching Artist. I’ve loved being a guest Art Teacher, helping, and meeting so many young artists, teaching art to a variety of people, & creating school murals. All of these experiences will forever be cherished memories.

Summer Art Parties!

More art news! It’s been a difficult decision, but I’ve had to cancel the DessArt Summer Kids Art & Dance Camp that was to be held at the Unique Technique Dance Studio, due to the COVID-19 and to be safe for everyone. There’s a silver lining in all this! I've created two fun Kids Art Parties that will be online with Zoom, for us to enjoy making art together. Below are the Art Parties (art classes with art kit supplies & instruction):

Fairy & Elf Doors – July 8th
https://www.facebook.com/events/307021756993915/
Enchanted Castles & Mermaids – July 15th & 16th
https://www.facebook.com/events/253528305874405/
An exciting magical time awaits your kids, with an online Enchanted Castles & Mermaids Painting Party and/or the Fairy Elf Doors Party! All you'll need is to purchase your Art Kit, and you'll be sent the Zoom Art Painting Party link, to join the online Painting Party, with instructions from renowned Art Teacher & Artist Miss Rachel Simpson for kids aged 6-15 years. After you register, you'll need to check your email for confirmation & arrange your Art Kit pick-up/drop-off ,or delivery with shipping fees.
Purchase & Register: https://www.rachelswhimsicalart.com/store

Art Kits!

There are many times when we just want to be creative on your own, do from home, & share making art with your family. While we are all staying safe from COVID-19, I’ve made Art Kits for all of us to enjoy. Each art kit includes your choice of wooden item to paint, (some with a small canvas), acrylic paints in both primary and secondary colors, brushes, and a pallet. If you’re interested in purchasing any of these, please email, and/or send a message to get your own. It’s been a treat to see what you make of your art kits & shared on social media in FB/IG:  #RachelsWhimsicalArt

Art Education & More!

Along with teaching middle school art at Franklin Academy, I have taught art education K-12 at various elementary schools, for after school enrichment programs in Whatcom County, in the Bellingham School District as an independent contractor, as well as fun summer art camps, private art lessons, parties/events, private lessons, present and at museums/galleries, and I’m a Teaching Artist/Board Member with Allied Arts of Whatcom County. This non-profit is one that brings the arts to many kids throughout the schools, and I’m so thankful I can be a part of it and this community.

Are you buying local? There are ways for you to do this by contacting me via email: Rachelsimpsonart@gmail.com , via social media#RachelsWhimsicalArt (FB & IG) and online Rachel’s Whimsical Art on Etsy, to shop, or commission artwork, and brouse many pieces of original art, matted prints, cards, stickers, kids wands, & jewelry such as glowing earrings.

You can find more about all the fun art events, my artwork, commissions, art exhibits, and art classes on my website and Instagram/Facebook pages: Rachel’s Whimsical Art, #RachelsWhimsicalArt

Thank you for all your enthusiasm for The Arts and keeping it alive within our community!
Be Kind, Let’s Shine!
~ Rachel Simpson
~ Artist, Art Teacher, (K-12)
~ http://rachelsimpsonart.weebly.com/