Workshops are scheduled for July 27 for youths who will enter grades 4-6 this fall. Youths who participated in the first session of workshops July 13 said they had a wonderful experience and enjoyed the hands-on learning environment.

The first workshop, called "Ways of the Past: Native American Tools and Weapons," allows youths to see examples of Native American tools and weapons in the Museum's Beckwith Collection and then use reproductions of those objects. They will get to try their hands at a bow and arrow, an atlatl (spear-thrower), a blow gun and a pump drill. They also will finger-weave a bracelet using traditional methods to take home. Students will get to see and touch materials like those that Native Americans would have used, such as animal pelts and bones, finger-woven fabrics and various weapons. This workshop is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. to noon.

The second workshop, "Masks and Faces: Making Faces with Art," begins in the Museum galleries, where children will see the Museum's temporary exhibit, and they will make their own masks to take home. This workshop is scheduled for 1-2:30 p.m. Students will use a Polaroid camera to design their own portraits. They also will write a short story or play using characters from the art works and make their own masks.

"Both workshops are interactive experiences that begin in the Museum galleries," said Andrea Morrill, curator of education. "Children will have fun looking and talking about art and artifacts and will participate in a variety of activities that encourage creative thinking."

The workshops complement the "Masks and Faces" exhibit on display through Aug. 9 in the University Museum." The exhibit offers a wide-ranging display of masks or depictions of faces. The exhibit features a wide range of selections from the Museum's permanent collection, including drawings, paintings and prints from a variety of cultures; wooden objects and statues; functional masks such as gas masks and for sports such as hockey and fencing; Japanese theater masks; and African and Native American ceremonial masks.

Cost of the workshops is $5 per person per workshop. Enrollment is limited to 15 participants, and advance registration is required. To hold a spot, send a check payable to the Southeast Missouri University Museum. For more information or to register, call (573) 651-2260. University Museum hours are 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m., Monday-Friday. The Museum is open from noon-4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.