OJAC launches programs to stay connected

By Melinda L. Lucas

The staff at the Old Jail Art Center say that they are “physical distancing,” not “social distancing” as they continue working to serve area residents during COVID-19 constraints.

The museum is currently closed to the public, with all group gatherings cancelled or on hold.

“We hope to stay connected through a variety of take-home and at-home programs for all ages,” said Erin Whitmore, education director at the museum.

@Home Survival Kits

Several staff members have been working on weekly “@Home Art Survival Kits” for local residents ages four through 12.

“If you live within driving distance of Albany and you’re looking for some ‘Edu-tainment’ for those kiddos at home, we’ve got you covered,” said Whitmore.

Parents can drive into the parking lot and open the waterproof trunk at the main double gate to find free art survival kits with two different special activities, scheduled to change every Monday until the museum reopens.

Whitmore explained that separate kits are prepared for ages 4-7 and ages 8-12.

“Activities will combine visual art with STEM, motor-skill development, social studies, or language arts themes,” said Whitmore.

The kits are available 24/7, and parents are asked to limit bags to one per child.

“No interaction with the museum staff is required for pickup, but you can call us with questions,” said Whitmore. 

She also asked that participants’ parents tag #athomewithOJAC if they have pictures of their finished creations.

Collection Chats

On Wednesdays, teens through adults  are invited to go to the OJAC’s Facebook page at 3:30 p.m. for brief interviews.

Whitmore is talking with other members of the staff each week about their favorite pieces in the museum collection.

The interviews will continue to be available on the Facebook page.

OJAC Tiny Tours

Also on Facebook will be a weekly series of “ojac tiny tours.”

“If you’re working from home, and need a quick and creative break, join us at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday for a three-minute tour of current exhibitions or a sneak peak from the museum vault,” said Whitmore.

These videos are also intended for teens and adults.

Virtual Field Trips

Scheduled on Fridays are Virtual Field Trips for ages five through 12.

“Check our Facebook page at 10:00 a.m. for a list of supplies to prepare before the broadcast, and then join us at 3:30 p.m. with your kindergartners through sixth graders,” said Whitmore.

The “field trip” will include a brief gallery chat, storytime, and coordinating activity with step-by-step instructions.

Those videos will also be available anytime on Facebook.

OJAC Blog

The Old Jail staff is continuing to post a weekly letter, and everyone is invited to go to the museum’s website at theojac.org to read about subjects that vary from collection pieces and exhibits to local history.

“The weekly posts by museum staff cover current projects, collection insight, recommendations, and behind-the-scenes information,” said Whitmore.

Although the museum doors are close, patrons can call 325-762-2269 with any questions.