Photo Gallery of the program (2000-present) shared with permission of the parents. All rights reserved.
“Before children speak, they sing. Before they write, they paint. As soon as they stand, they dance. Art is the basis of human expression.” - P. Rashad
NATURE AND ARTS FOR YOUTH & FAMILIES
DANCE MONKS established the Nature and Arts project (formerly The Green Project) in 2000, in response to the modern need for children and families to (re)connect physically and imaginatively with Nature through immersive experiences. This bilingual (Spanish/English) program includes free monthly Breathe Here (Self-Acupressure) workshops designed to support parents’ well-being.
Nature and Arts blends play-based exploration with artist-led experiences. A typical day features guided outdoor adventures, storytelling, drawing, gardening, and creative movement practices accompanied by music from around the world. The program’s focus is on helping children maintain a deep connection to their own unique vibrancy and gifts, develop self-care skills, cultivate empathy, and co-create a culture of kindness in relationship with one another and the natural world.
While many adults express concern for the future of the planet, the education system has changed little to support its future guardians. Nature and Arts inspires children to fall in love with the environment for a lifetime. Rodrigo and Mirah bring over thirty years of experience working with children in public and private schools to create this visionary, interdisciplinary program.
DANCE MONKS’ past youth environmental performance projects include The Great Dreamer (Malcolm X in Berkeley), The Green Project: Rain Dances (Highland Elementary School, Richmond), The Green Project: Wild Child and Other Tales of the Tall Trees (Berkeley Arts Magnet), The Green Project: Bike Tour (Bay Area), Madrid School (Mexico City), and Conversaciones con Árboles (Nayarit, Mexico). These Green Projects were made possible thanks to the support of The Open Circle Foundation (2007, 2009, 2010, 2013) and The Zellerbach Family Foundation (2007 & 2016).
STAY CONNECTED for upcoming Family Days at La Milpa in Mexico through DANCE MONKS' Mailing List!
"Mirah and Rodrigo are such skilled, empathetic teachers. They are excellent at channeling the kids' energy into imaginative projects and games. There is such ease, flow, and delight (!) in these mornings. It's a really special, tight-knit group of kids and families." Larissa, Parent
"Nature and Arts has been a blessing for my son and our family. He has absolutely thrived under the loving and attentive care of Mirah and Rodrigo. They have created a magical and unique experience for little kids that celebrates each child, as well as the beauty of exploring nature, making art, gardening, movement, storytelling, and more. They have navigated the flux of Covid with grace and adaptability and place a real emphasis on community amongst the families. I feel truly grateful that we have found Nature and Arts!" Helena, Parent
"The Green Project (now Nature and Arts) is hands down the most inspiring and professional arts programming for children that I have ever encountered. I look forward to working with Rodrigo and Mirah for years to come."
Sarah, Public After-School Program Director