Like most new comers to Charlotte, North Carolina you may be caught off guard by the sweltering hot temperatures the region is experiencing. In the last few days temperatures soared in the upper 90's with heat indexes ranging from 100-105. According to
Local Weather on Fox WCCB . It's official these are the dog days of summer. It can be a challenge to find events that are both fun and cool - in the literal sense staying cool and being "cool" in the month of July is almost impossible. But if you ask a few local families how they find refuge on Dog Days you may be surprised to hear that they do anything but lay around in the dog house. This past Sunday many families took to the Mint Museum for fun indoor activities. The Mint Museum is located on South Tryon Street in Charlotte NC. The Museum hosts many interactive events throughout the summer to encourage creativity during the dreaded summer heat.
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Pictured here: A local art Instructor, Raed Al- Rawi, teaches dog sketching techniques.
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There were many hands on craft activities for patrons to try out. Kids and adults choose from activity stations including a drawing class and picture frame making. Participants were shown how to create miniature picture frames adorned with dog motifs. Colorful paints, stickers, and shinny buttons were scattered along the table. Moms and dads, sisters and brothers can be seen creating arts and crafts. Trips to the museum can be a fun way to enhance family bonding. A large crowd of over 100 people were busy moving to and fro the many activity stations in the atrium.
Nearby, in a separate space next to the atrium, little yoga enthusiasts could be found practicing poses. The yoga instructor, Margaret Maurice, was very patient when leading the youth in exercise and meditation. She gave a demo on breathing exercises that the kids really enjoyed. Considering the animal theme, its no wonder the "Downward facing dog" was everyone's favorite yoga pose. After the yoga practice, the instructor led a children's story time.
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Seen here: Margaret Maurice, the instuctor shows a young girl the Downward Facing Dog pose.
Children take a breather during story time.
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After exploring the activities the museum goers were encouraged to go on a scavenger hunt to find dog themed paintings throughout the gallery. The Mint museum's collection has four floors full of art ranging from contemporary paintings to classic ceramic sculptures. Various styles and perspectives from artists of all backgrounds can be found in the collection. Anyone who is looking for a different way to cool off this summer should definitely consider taking a look at the Mint's current exhibit.
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| Following the crafty activities patrons flock to the upstairs galleries. |
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| A glimpse of the sculptures on the 3rd floor. |
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A patron admires a life-size sculpture on the 4th floor at the Mint Museum.
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-Southern Miss
