Kids Discover Art At The Stirling Club

Every month, The Stirling Club extends a benefit exclusively to kids, ages 5-12, in a very unique and memorable way. Art Classes for Kids, which is a privately owned art institute for children, hosts a private workshop for Stirling Club family members in the Verandah Room. The classes typically sell out weeks in advance.

Last March 13, more than 25 enthusiastic children, ages 5-12, joined the workshop to complete their choice of three "green" themed acrylic paintings on canvas. The paintings, which were selected from the works of famous artists for inspiration, included a flower, abstract design, or landscape.

One of the paintings, inspired by renowned artist Emily Wood, went a long way in capturing the philosophy of her art as well as the work. Painting is about discovery of techniques and ideas, but wonderfully about self-discovery, she says in her statement.

Under the direction of Kim Crisostomo, owner and principal instructor, Art Classes for Kids delivers. For two hours, young artists follow the step-by-step strokes until completing their masterpieces. Occasionally, they break long enough to enjoy refreshments and fresh baked cookies provided by the Charlie Palmer executive chef team.

All of the materials are provided, including T-shirts for cover up. Additional instructors answer questions and work one-on-one with the artists as needed.

The next workshop hosted at The Stirling Club will be from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 3. Given the class will be held one day before Easter, Art Classes for Kids will focus on rabbit illustrations, with a choice of three different compositions and styles. The medium will include chalk pastels.

To reserve space, call The Stirling Club special events coordinator Diedra Smith at 702-784-4637. The workshop is $25 per child. Parents who are members are welcome to time their spa and salon appointments to coincide with the class.

Art Classes for Kids also offers art camps, art parties, and private instruction. The instruction specializes in drawing, painting, and sculpting with creative projects inspired by famous artists and historical art movements. Most projects can be completed in a class, allowing the children to take something home the same day.

Members looking for an unrelated excursion may consider attending a special "locals only" art exhibition featuring the work of local artists from the CENTERpiece Gallery, which is located in the porte-cochere of the Mandarin Oriental. The first exhibition will feature the work of photographer Shawn Hummel from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on April 8. Hors d'oeuvres will be provided by SIMON. Reservations are required by April 5. 702-739-7563.

Stirling Social: Hats, High Tea, And High Fashion

While "High Tea" was once only associated with the British working class as their evening supper, it has become synonymous with afternoon tea and formal social events in United States. As the custom evolved, "High Tea" became the most commonly accepted name that blended the tradition of afternoon tea with social formalities. Attendance is only a reservation away.

Hats, High Tea, And High Fashion

At 2 p.m. on Friday, March 26, the Stirling Club will host a Hats, High Tea, and High Fashion event with Saks Fifth Avenue. Served alongside bite size sandwiches, scones, and other treats, Saks Fifth Avenue will present their Spring 2010 Safari Accents line, which became one of three dominate trends this year.

The line doesn't include animal prints; it's better described as adventurous and outdoor spirited. The styles have been modified for more elegant and contemporary look, including military shirts and tan Safari jackers. Find a sneak peak right here.

Saks Fifth Avenue will also present samples that include the two other trends this year, making this a rare opportunity to plan some seasonal purchases while socializing with other club members. Attendance for members is only $18.95 per person.

Non-members are invited contact Kathleen Gustafson, executive director of membership, at 702-784-4603 or by e-mail via The Stirling Club Web site. Bring a hat to complete this unique experience.

A Few Fun Facts About Afternoon Tea

While there are many stories that surround afternoon tea time (sometimes called high tea in the United States), the most common attribution credits Anna Maria Stanhope, the Duchess of Bedford. According to legend, the Duchess had her servants sneak her a pot of tea, sandwiches, and small cakes to compensate for lighter noon time meals and late formal dinners.

Others, however, attribute tea time to the French, citing letters written by Madame de Sévigné. She frequently mentioned the affection that Louis XIV had for tea. And, credited the Marquise de la Sablière with being the first to add milk. This account considers that the French Revolution may have interrupted the earliest excitement for tea times in Europe, which Americans tend to mostly associate with England.

A Stirling Engagement With Jason Alexander

Robin Leach calls him laughs from start to finish. Ellen Sterling calls him motivational. And if you believe his bio, Tonya Harding says he turned her life around.

"All I can tell you is that it’s a laugh-a-minute riot — and that you get to see him naked!" — Robin Leach

Who is he?

Donny Clay, as performed by Jason Alexander, once better known as George Costanza from NBC's hit comedy Seinfeld, has quickly become one of the most highly regarded motivational speakers in the world today. In a send-up of Tony Robbins, Deepak Chopra, Dr. Phil and other motivational speakers as he helps you discover the YOU inside of you.

This Friday, March 12, Stirling Club members are invited to a special engagement with Alexander as Donny Clay as performs live in the SHI Showroom at Planet Hollywood. The event begins with a champagne reception at The Stirling Club and transportation is included.

Portions of the show include audience participation, which sets the stage for a truly memorable experience. The limited engagement at Planet Hollywood ends March 14. You can also stay up to date on his character, Donny Clay, on Twitter and via his fan club on Facebook.

His next known performance will be a one-night-only performance of Jerry Seinfeld Live at the Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills. The April event in California will raise funds for the Reprise Theatre Company.

Alexander has had a remarkably successful career. He has earned six Emmy and four Golden Globe nominations, an American Television Award, two American Comedy Awards for Best Supporting Actor in a Television Series, and a Best Actor nod from The Screen Actors Guild. Alexander has also appeared in scores of films, televisions shows, and stage plays, including a Tony-award winning performance in Jerome Robbins' Broadway.

Reservations for this Stirling Club event are required. The Donny Clay Experience is $70 per person (VIP tickets are typically $70-$99). The champagne reception, transportation, and premium seating is inclusive.