In a team effort by the Mesquite Library and Mesquite Fine Arts Gallery, kids are enjoying storytelling and chalk art fun on the Art Center plaza.

Saturday, June 23, eight children and their parents gathered to listen to Miguel Reyes read library books in English and Spanish. The kids then talked about the similar words they could hear in each language.

Miguel, a member of Virgin Valley Artists Association, read to the group in the shade of the art center classroom where the Mesquite Library is temporarily housed. After hearing the stories, the kids, age 5-11, created their own chalk art drawings. In an hour, the blank surfaces of the shaded pavilion steps and floor were covered with drawings of owls, people, pets, birds, rainbows, and other favorite images and characters from the books.

This event will be repeated on Saturday, June 30, at 10:30 am. The activity is organized by Virgin Valley Artists Association as part of its summer community outreach for young artists.

Judy Sargent of the Mesquite Library provides bilingual books and lots of bottled water.

All kids ages 5-11 are welcome, and must be accompanied by a parent for the 90 minute reading and art program. Chalk and art leaders are provided by VVAA. There is no charge for the event.

Virgin Valley Artists Association is a nonprofit organization that operates the Mesquite Fine Arts Gallery. The group also sponsors an art education program for children called, “Get Smart with Art,” that give kids the opportunity to draw, paint, and work with clay. The innovative program has earned funding from Nevada Arts Council and NEA Artworks since its inception.

To learn more about the complete VVAA art education program, visit the gallery at 15 West Mesquite Blvd, Mesquite Nevada, or go online to www.mesquitefineartscenter.com. The Gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10am-4pm. It closes July 1-9 only for annual refurbishment. Phone 702-346-1338 for more information.