Each participant is asked to fill out a questionnaire about if they could be a super hero, what would they look like, wear, do and have for “super powers”, etc. we then take those answers, and draw ourselves as a hero, either in action, or just in the “admire my great posture stance” ala the old superman intros… Age 8 and up.

This program has been adapted for use in "anti-bullying" programs in schools, and other community settings. The participants also learn that we all have common ground, common fears/wishes, and is a great self-esteem booster!
 

Each participant makes two artist trading cards, one to swap, and one to keep for later. ATC’s are about the size of a business card, and we make them using markers, colored pencils, or pen and ink. (or a combo of all the media). I bring some examples in, and we then make our own. This is art movement that originated in Switzerland in 1997, and is taking hold in the US. It's way cool, and just fun to do….Age 10 and up.

Learn how to create amazing artwork using only scissors and paper! Great program for multi-cultural events! Participants learn how to recreate this ancient Asian art form while they learn about Asian New Year and the Chinese Zodiac.
        Short length and long length programs available
        Typical program results in two pieces of cut paper art
        Ages 8 and older
        Meets New York State academic standards for Social Studies at Intermediate and High school levels
        Residency program available

Wildly fun class for younger artists! Learn how to draw animals using basic shapes and letters.   Complex animals are broken down into simple shapes- teaching participants how to see as an artist does.

    * Hour long program
    * Includes all materials and optional take home workbook
    * Ages 5 and up

 Make Egyptian style jewelry using polymer clay! We will explore hieroglyphs, and various styles of ancient Egyptian jewelry. Students will then be given polymer clay that uses the same colors that dominated Egyptian jewelry (custom mixed clay that simulates lapis lazuli, carnelian, turquoise, obsidian) texturing in jewelry is also encouraged.

•   Two hour program
•   Includes all materials
•   Ages 10 and up- due to use of  crafting knives
•   Can be adapted to World History curriculum as part of a residency
•    Program can be adapted for other ancient culture’s jewelry styles- call for info!

A great program to bring teens into your library! High-energy artist, MB Dolan, will lead participants through a fun-filled, intense workshop of Manga drawing.

Several versions of the program are available:
Faces and figures, Emotions,  Action poses,  Character development, Story planning, Designing cover art

The participants can actually vote to decide which program we do! Several funny anecdotes are shared, as MB illustrates the "do's and don'ts" of Manga drawing.

•     1.5 hour length program
•     Includes all materials and optional take home workbooks
•     Ages 10 and up
•     Multiple visit  literacy residency program available

How to make your own funky wearable art! We use polymer clay to create one-of-a-kind wearable art. Polymer clay is multi-colored clay that can be hardened by baking in a home oven. Several design techniques are taught, tips are shared, and if time permits, the clay is baked before participants head home.

•     * Artists age 10 and up
•     * This program uses sharp tools (crafting knives)
•     * A safe place on-site is needed to bake the clay  (if possible)

Using polymer clay, we build our own bugs, or fish using simple shapes and brightly colored clay. If time and space allows, we can bake our first bug or fish and see the end results. Fun and crazy bug and fish facts are discussed during the program, to aid in understanding just how different a bug's (fish's)  life is than ours!!!
 
* Artists age 6 and up * This program uses safe tools such as tooth picks and plastic knives  * A safe place on-site is needed to bake the clay  (if possible)  Program length is 1.5 to 2 hours.

This multiple session residency teaches the beginning skills needed to create and develop a graphic novel or short story. Drawing skills, story telling skills, creative writing and visual story boarding are taught. Age 12 and up mandatory for this program. A great way to get teens and especially teen boys to visit your library!

How do I book Mary Beth Dolan?

Call MB Dolan at 585-755-4623 to schedule a date for your event, workshop, or residency. I’ll send you two copies of the contract; you sign and return one copy to Start Here Studio and your date is confirmed! 

What are the fees for having Mary Beth Dolan come to our event?

Each event has specific needs please call 585-755-4623  for a quote. 

Where’s the best place to have this program?

Well, your place, of course! Experience has shown that in a school setting an art room works best; in a library or community center we recommend a common room  that can hold at least 30 people comfortably.

What about publicity?

Use the link below to get printable press info about your program, an artist's bio, and photos you can use.  Some programs have a pre-made poster that can be e-mailed to you upon request.

Request Press Kit Info

What if I have a theme of my own in mind, can Mary Beth create a program?

YES! I  can help you design a program to fit your needs, and can help you with fundraising ideas for your special event or residency.