Sideways is an artist-run education program focusing on Art and Nature connection experiences in Columbia County and Berkshire County. Offering specialized workshops and creative opportunities to children and also artists with developmental and intellectual disabilities, Sideways programs support the development of innovative and process-oriented art projects.
At the moment, Sideways operates various programs:
At the moment, Sideways operates various programs:
︎Individual Workshops
︎Afterschool Workshops
︎Special Events (please reach out for party and event inquiries)
Founded in 2022 by artist Ruby Jackson, Sideways began as an experimental educational project that grew out of her teaching practice. Jackson is a sculptor with a focus on papermaking and ceramics. Jackson holds an MFA from Rutgers University and a BA from Bard College. She has worked for many years as an art educator and farmer, such experiences having led her to envision a program that offers radical exploration and collaboration within early education - a free, innovative and student-led program. Jackson has 11+ years of experience working with children and art and nature education and 3+ years of working with adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. She is passionate about arts access as well as working towards community and establishing creative networks in rural places.
Since 2023, Sideways has partnered with artist Louise Smith to design, develop and lead various workshops in the area. Louise is a painter and art educator living and working in Chatham, NY. Painting on textured and porous surfaces is where she best explores her interest in color and in the deconstruction and disintegration of material and form. Louise graduated with a BA from Bard College and a Post-Baccalaureate degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Her artwork has been exhibited in Washington, D.C., New York, and Mexico City. She has worked closely with students at Montgomery C. Smith Elementary School for the past three years and is excited about continuing to provide creative opportunitites for youth in the Hudson Valley.
We are always interested in connecting further and fostering new relationships within the community. If you have ideas for Sideways programs please check out our Contact page and be in touch!
Collaborative Tea Party Design Workshop (Sewing)
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Shadow Puppets at COARC & Community Day at the Clark Art Institute
