Though a relatively common concept in Europe, the idea of an 'atelier' is still new to most North Americans.
Originating in the French language, the word means "work room" or "artist studio" and was originally used in reference to seamstresses, carpenters, sculptors or painters. An atelierista - a master artist or craftsman - would mentor and guide younger people eager to learn, and the studio itself provided a place of inspiration, where artists in a given field might come together to watch, talk or learn.
Karim Devji, Saira Devji and Laurie Kocher debated using the term when deciding on a name for their venture due to the fact that it's not as well recognized in this part of the world, but eventually decided that it highlighted the best of what they hoped to offer: instructors who are topnotch in their fields, a welcoming environment for children, and a focus on inspiration, creativity, exploration and learning.
The atelier concept has been used in conjunction with programs or schools that operate on the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education in Europe and elsewhere for quite some time.
The Reggio approach focuses on the child's natural development, is considered child-directed, and encourages children to follow their interests and learn through exploration, then to reflect on what they've seen and done.
It's a process, says Kocher, that works from an assumption that children are naturally capable, competent and curious.
Laurie Kocher, an instructor at Douglas College and editor of the Canadian Children Journal, knows a thing or two about the Reggio movement - she's helping to organize the Wonder of Learning exhibit from Reggio Emilio, which is slated to be in Vancouver from July to December of 2012. Wonder of Learning: The Hundred Langauges of Children is a constantly changing and updating exhibit of early childhood learning experiences that has been touring the U.S., Canada and Mexico since 1987. It offers an opportunity for professional development and interaction.
cmyers@ burnabynow.com
