Arts education is a key component of the Moscow Arts Commission’s service to the community. The MACtivities program features activities that foster enthusiasm for the creative process as well as focused approaches to art elements and principles. Presented in a variety of settings and delivery methods, these lessons weave art-making strategies into the fabric of the community’s daily life.

MACtivities Toolbox

The MACtivities Toolbox program ran from 2020-2022, and was developed in response to the need for social distancing. Art supply and curriculum toolboxes, available to community members free-of-charge, provided connection to art-making skills and the broader community during a time with fewer in-person connections. Guidebooks and lessons are designed for three different age groups and provide space for creative inquiry while maintaining alignment with National Core Art Standards. These print-ready materials are available below. 

Toolbox #1 Art Outside!
Introduction, Techniques, and Colors
Printable Color Wheel
Lesson One for ages 5-7 years: Collect the Color Wheel
Lesson Two for ages 5-7 years: Leaf Lines
Lesson One for ages 8-12 years: Collect the Color Scheme
Lesson Two for ages 8-12 years: Shadow Shapes
Lesson One for ages 13 years and up: En Plein Air
Lesson Two for ages 13 years and up: Phenology Wheels

Toolbox #2 Puppets!
Guidebook
Lesson One for ages 5-7: "I Can't" Said the Ant
Lesson Two for ages 5-7: Imaginary Friend
Lesson One for ages 8-12: Museum
Lesson Two for ages 8-12: Open Mic
Lesson One for ages 13 years and up: Evil Characters
Lesson Two for ages 13 years and up: Comedy Show

Toolbox #3 Cyanotype!
Guidebook
Lesson One for ages 5-7: Wall Hanging
Lesson Two for ages 5-7: Foraging Satchel
Lesson One for ages 8-12: Embroidered Foraging Satchel
Lesson Two for ages 8-12: Foraging Friend
Lesson One for ages 13 years and up: Embroidered Patch
Lesson Two for ages 13 years and up: Patchwork Drawstring Bag

Toolbox #4 Blackout Poetry!
Guidebook
Lesson One for ages 5-7: Collecting Words
Lesson Two for ages 5-7: Old to New
Lesson One for ages 8-12: Find a Poem
Lesson Two for ages 8-12: Finding Meaning
Lesson One for ages 13 years and up: Creating a Poem
Lesson Two for ages 13 years and up: Remake your Writing

Toolbox #5 Drawing Explorations!
Guidebook
Lesson One: Draw What You Hear
Lesson Two: Draw What You See
Lesson Three: Draw What You Feel
Lesson Four: Draw Your Thoughts
Lesson Five: Draw Your Emotions