ATTORNEYS AT LAW 1009 W 7TH AVENUE ANCHORAGE, ALASKA 99501 TELEPHONE: (907) 279-4529 FAX: (907) 279-9223
©1997 by Steven Pradell
Alaska is a land full of talented and creative people. Many of us live here because of the challenges and the beauty that this state offers. We pass on our creative spirit to our children. As an attorney, entertainer, and teacher, I will share some thoughts about your artistic and inventive children.
Often a child will experience an event and form a great interest in what took place. Many adult artists began their careers simply because they saw another individual's expression of creativity at an early age and became inspired. Take your children to different events and observe their reactions. Encourage your child to share their impressions with you.
Singing and learning an instrument allows a child to express emotion through music. Private lessons are available throughout Anchorage. Contact a local music store to find names of teachers. Don't force a child to play a particular instrument: allow the child to choose which one is preferred.
Painting, photography, and other visual arts enable children to express their subconscious imaginations and their awareness of space, color and light.
The performing arts are alive in Alaska, and there are opportunities for children to perform at many events, including the State Fair, the recently held Folk Festival, the enchanted dolls at Christmas, and many other venues.
Creative skills can be learned from books as well. The local library offers books on magic (you will find them at 793.8 of the Dewy decimal system in all libraries), mime, origami (the ancient art of paper folding) puppetry and countless other hobbies and skills which will inspire and encourage a child to read and apply the knowledge learned. The discipline involved in mastering a skill at an early age will assist a child in learning other tasks in adulthood.
Once a creative outlet is found for a child, and skills are mastered, the next step may be to introduce the child to others also interested in that art form. For music, this may mean joining a chorus, orchestra, or band. Preparing for an artistic performance and putting on a show is a very rewarding experience.
If your child possesses skills in an artistic area where no group exists, you may desire to form your own group. I have assisted with the formation process of groups of musicians, magicians and youngsters interested in the law in Alaska.
As children develop their skills, certain legal questions may arise. The parent of a talented child who creates a song, poem, painting or other work of art my desire to protect the artwork by applying for copyright protection from the U.S. Government. Children who choose to model clothing, work for advertising agencies, or pursue a career on television may be required to enter contracts. A parent or legal guardian may need to sign such contracts on behalf of their children.
At this time a young Alaskan singer has recently become a national celebrity, and many children in America are becoming famous for their abilities. Talent agents, attorneys and accountants may be necessary to keep track of bookings, income and expenses for children who's earnings exceed that of their parents.
If you desire to learn more about your rights and responsibilities as the parent of a talented child, it may be wise to speak with a lawyer.
Steven Pradell is an Anchorage attorney with a practice emphasizing family law, including children's issues, divorce, custody, child support and adoption. ©1997 by Steven Pradell. This article is not intended to provide legal advice and should not be relied on for that purpose. The law office of Pradell and Associates provides low cost legal consultations. A helpful staff provides prompt, courteous services to meet your legal needs. Give Pradell and Associates a call today, at (907) 279-4529-- (279-4LAW).