In January, the Greater Princeton & Far Beyond Branch of AYLUS (GPA) collaborated with Sunrose Arts & Photography (80 Main St, Madison, NJ 07940) for a fun art event as part of GPA Art Therapy Initiative–Pipe Cleaner Crafts Bring Chinese New Year to Life, raising funds to support diabetes children of low-income families.
Sunrose is a co-working, art exchange, and event platform for all artists. Located in the heart of beautiful Madison, New Jersey, we offer opportunities for exhibitions, discussions, promotions, and small gatherings for artists. Sunrose offers different membership options to fulfill the many varying needs of our members. Our Young Artist Membership program provides a special community for artists aged 12-20 to share ideas, expand their skills, and strengthen their portfolio. Sunrose Studio is open to the public on weekends— a variety of materials and mediums will be available to meet the creative needs of different art lovers. Come spend a day with us at our very own creative nook in the bustling town of Madison!
On Saturday, GPA members gathered for a vibrant and creative Chinese New Year celebration featuring hands-on pipe cleaner craft-making. The activity was filled with laughter, imagination, and cultural discovery, as children crafted unique souvenirs to welcome the Year of the Snake.
The session began with a fun and engaging game of “Guess What It Is”, where participants were challenged to identify various Chinese New Year symbols and items. Laughter and excitement filled the room as everyone shared guesses and learned more about the holiday’s traditions. Then begins the creation of cartoon snakes to symbolize the new year. Each child selected their favorite colors, and the instructor guided them through the basic model, demonstrating ways to customize their snakes with creativity. From there, the kids let their imaginations soar, adding unique touches like hairstyles, hats, and even eyelashes to their creations. The results were as delightful and diverse as the young artists themselves! . “Their creativity and enthusiasm were truly inspiring,” said the instructor.
Another highlight of the event was the crafting of bingtanghulu, the traditional Chinese candied fruit skewers. For many of the children, this was their first time seeing or hearing about this treat. Yet, their curiosity and creativity shone as they crafted colorful and whimsical interpretations of this iconic delicacy.
The children learned quickly and participated with joy, producing charming creations while deepening their appreciation for Chinese New Year traditions. Parents and organizers alike praised the event for its success in blending cultural education with artistic expression.
As the session concluded, the room was filled with proud smiles and a gallery of colorful, creative crafts—a testament to the kids’ ingenuity and the enduring spirit of the New Year celebration.
The events not only provide financial support to cover the insulin expense but also bring happiness to children through art and creative expression. Studies have shown that art therapy can reduce heart rates, improve cognition, release endorphins, and alleviate stress. Kids and families experiencing extended hospitalization go through insurmountable stress. However, kids at children’s hospitals who had access to art supplies experienced lower levels of stress than those who did not.
Many GPA members participated in the drive, spreading the words and flyers and promoting the event at their schools and neighbors.
GPA Volunteers (1/11 Art special event in Madson, 1-5 pm, 4 hrs): Chenhao Luo, Daniel Liang, James Yang, Emma Yang, Jerry Chen, Joshua Liu, Justin Lambert, SueAnn Liu, Cheryl Chen, Maxwell Mao, Timothy Xie, Joey Deng, Aidan Cheng
