MARSHFIELD — Messy Monets, a children’s art program known for its joyful “process art” approach and hands-on sensory play, is now a growing part of the creative offerings at the Chestnut Center for the Arts in Marshfield.
Messy Monets offers classes that “provide process art, sensory play, and STEAM projects for toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary age kids.”
The Chestnut Center, located at 208 S. Chestnut Avenue, is a long-standing nonprofit focused on arts education, performance, and community engagement.
Messy Monets was developed with young children in mind, and its name reflects that purpose.
Program leader, Bobbie Schreiber, said that she created the concept as a mother of three who understood the importance of giving toddlers a safe place to explore through mess.
Her goal has been to provide families with an environment where children can experiment freely without pressure for perfection.
This past summer, Messy Monets hosted a week-long “Master Class in Mess” for preschoolers.
The program encouraged families to explore materials in a fully unstructured way, emphasizing the idea that exploration itself can lead to a “masterpiece.”
Another seasonal event, “Nursery Rhyme Time: Toddler Art Camp,” introduced toddlers to process art activities inspired by classic nursery rhymes.
The Chestnut Center also showcases young artists from Messy Monets in the Upper Reception Room, featuring work created by Schreiber’s toddler campers.
The partnership has broadened the Center’s family-focused programming, adding a playful, exploratory dimension to its arts education mission.
Schreiber designs classes around seasonal themes and accessible materials, tailoring the structure to each age group.
She notes that some of the most rewarding moments come when children who arrive shy or tentative begin to open up — socializing, experimenting, and gaining confidence through creative play.
Her approach emphasizes that early arts education is about experience and exploration rather than technical mastery.
Looking forward, Schreiber plans to expand Messy Monets with more weekday classes, increased year-round availability, and additional opportunities for older children to participate.
She also sees potential for more community art days as the program continues to grow through the center.
Families interested in upcoming classes, seasonal camps or registration can visit “Messy Monets” on Facebook @messymonetsstudio.
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