A vibrant day at the Hammer Museum: Kids’ Art Museum Project (K.A.M.P.) fundraiser

A morning of creativity and joy

On a sunny Sunday morning, the Hammer Museum’s courtyard in Westwood transformed into a bustling hub of creativity and joy as hundreds of parents and children gathered for the annual Kids’ Art Museum Project (K.A.M.P.) fundraiser. The event, known for its engaging activities and star-studded storytime sessions, did not disappoint.

Art stations and musical delights

The museum’s outdoor space was cleverly utilized to host various art stations, offering a plethora of activities for the young attendees. From kite-making to custom T-shirt designing, the children had their hands full with creative projects. Notable artists like Jackie Amézquita, Sayre Gomez, Zoe Latta, Ruby Neri, Roksana Pirouzmand, Umar Rashid, Paul Mpagi Sepuya, and Kyungmi Shin led these activities, each bringing their unique artistic flair to the table.

Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, DJ Reprise spun lively tunes, while the kids’ band The Sunday Dreamers performed, keeping the energy high and the smiles wide.

Celebrity storytime: A magical experience

One of the day’s highlights was the celebrity storytime readings, which captivated the young audience. Henry Winkler, Chrissy Teigen, and Crystal Kung Minkoff were among the stars who took the stage to share their favorite stories.

Henry Winkler’s heartfelt reading

Henry Winkler, beloved by many, kicked off the storytime by introducing his grandchildren to the crowd. The 78-year-old actor read from three of his co-authored books, including his popular Detective Duck series. Winkler’s engaging storytelling, coupled with the book’s charming illustrations, held the children spellbound. He even gave a sneak peek into the latest Detective Duck book, set to be released later this month.

For the older kids, Winkler chose a chapter from his Hank Zipzer series, specifically Hank Zipzer: I Got a D in Salami. He shared personal anecdotes about his struggles in school, explaining that the character Hank is a reflection of his own experiences. Over the past decade, Winkler has co-authored more than 12 Hank Zipzer books with Lin Oliver, making a significant impact on young readers.

Chrissy Teigen and Crystal Kung Minkoff’s Dr. Seuss classics

Chrissy Teigen and Crystal Kung Minkoff opted for timeless Dr. Seuss classics during their storytime sessions. Teigen read Oh, the Places You’ll Go!, a personal favorite, which resonated with the kids, parents, and even a Girl Scout troupe in attendance. Minkoff’s reading was equally enchanting, bringing the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss to life.

Hands-on art activities

The art stations were a major draw, with activities designed to engage children of all ages. The kids had the opportunity to explore various crafts, including:

• Kite-making: Guided by artist Jackie Amézquita, children created colorful kites, learning about design and aerodynamics.
• Custom T-shirt designing: Under the guidance of Sayre Gomez, kids expressed their creativity on fabric, producing unique wearable art.
• Weaving project: Zoe Latta introduced the children to the intricate art of weaving, allowing them to create beautiful patterns.
• Painting on clay: Ruby Neri led a session where kids painted on clay, exploring textures and colors.
• Mapmaking: Roksana Pirouzmand‘s mapmaking activity encouraged children to think spatially and creatively.
• Portrait styles: Umar Rashid, Paul Mpagi Sepuya, and Kyungmi Shin each offered different approaches to portraiture, from traditional to abstract.

A successful fundraiser

The K.A.M.P. event was not only a day of fun and creativity but also a successful fundraiser. The event raised an impressive $230,000, which will support the Hammer Kids programs. These programs provide free art education and activities to thousands of children and families throughout the year, fostering a love for the arts and creativity in the community.

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