What are “Learning Trails?”

Learning Trails are fun, interactive ways for children and families to engage with our community.

The first trail is an artistic exploration of The Basics: five principles that support vibrant learning and brain development in the first years of life.

To learn more about The Basics, the artists, and the Learning Trail project, scroll down!

 

About the Basics Southcoast Learning Trail

The Southcoast Learning Trails’ first initiative is The Basics Southcoast Learning Trail on Acushnet Avenue in New Bedford, MA. The project brings together six Southcoast artists to illustrate each of the five Basics Principles in store-front windows along the avenue. Every three months, the art will be updated to represent the Basic Principle in new, interesting ways.

We’re deeply grateful for the support of the store owners in completing this project. We couldn’t do this without you!

Support local business owners by making time to visit and shop in your local retailers!

Meet The Artists

Eden N. Soares

Kate Wahle

Fitzcarmel LaMarre

Bridget Bannon

Eden N. Soares

Eden Soares is an illustrator, muralist, graphic designer, perfectionist, founder of his own brand; Trigrfx, and the director of design at Fronto King, LLC. He has gained over 36 years of experience as a freelance graphic designer dealing with customers and their challenging design requests in a timely manner. Eden is very detailed orientated, highly creative, super organized, and motivated. He has a great work ethic while working calmly under pressure. He has shown his side of gratefulness from the results of continuous referrals, ongoing projects and recommendations. 

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Kate Wahle

Kate Wahle recently graduated with a degree in Communications, Graphic Design, and Education from Stonehill College in 2020. She now is a second year teacher at Nativity Preparatory School in New Bedford where she teaches 5th grade. Kate is pursuing her master’s degree in Curriculum and Teaching at Boston University. She looks forward to sharing her love for education and art by participating in the Southcoast Learning Trail.

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Fitzcarmel LaMarre

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Bridget Bannon

Bridget Bannon is a growing mural artist who is currently studying Animation + Game Arts at the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth. She has a passion for community and using art as a way to interact and explore. Her goal in each work is to make someone smile, knowing art can be a huge part is bringing life and color into anyone’s day. Bridget currently has works on display at the Old Colony YMCA, Taunton High School, and Applause Academy, all in her hometown of Taunton, MA.

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The Basics Southcoast Learning Trail was made possible by the generosity of the Art is Everywhere Grant program by New Bedford Creative

Project Management by Duende Studio / Duende Glass, Tracy S Barbosa New Bedford, MA

What are “The Basics?”

THE BASICS ARE FIVE FUN, SIMPLE, AND POWERFUL WAYS THAT EVERY FAMILY CAN GIVE EVERY CHILD A GREAT START IN LIFE.
Maximize Love, Manage Stress
Talk, Sing, & Point
Count, Group, & Compare
Explore Through Movement & Play
Read & Discuss Stories
Learn More

Southcoast Learning Trails Partners

A partnership between the Southcoast Coalition for Early Childhood Education and the New Bedford Birth to Third Partnership

HEED is a collaborative network comprising diverse stakeholders committed to providing every child with the best start in life, ensuring they enter kindergarten prepared to achieve their maximum potential.

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