What sort of arena or venue do the characters live in?
A classroom, either in an elementary school or a rec center. Even maybe a daycamp. Just a typical kids art class.
Interaction with human characters?
Most of the time, it's similar to "Toy Story"...the art supplies are used by the kids and teachers, but only talk to each other. The semi-exception is Mister Paper himself, who in classic "shoulder angel" fashion will gently encourage and coax young artists.
Any more direct interaction would be uncommon, but never say never.
Why is this important?
Because, intentionally or not, a message kids can get from school is the idea that art (especially the visual arts) are something there's a trick to. Follow the special instructions and you'll be able to draw "right". Somehow, this message, implicit or blatant seems to discourage or confuse many kids, leading them to view art as something they can't, or worse, shouldn't try to do.
Also, Mister Paper helps children realize that "failure" is not something to fear or feel bad about, at least when it comes to creative pursuits. Learning to develop creative talents is hard. Success won't come easily, there may be many mistakes made...and there's nothing wrong with that!
He might say "that new drawing you made was pretty good. I know your next one will be even better!"
Often, kids need that encouragement, or else the special things they can share might be lost.
A classroom, either in an elementary school or a rec center. Even maybe a daycamp. Just a typical kids art class.
Interaction with human characters?
Most of the time, it's similar to "Toy Story"...the art supplies are used by the kids and teachers, but only talk to each other. The semi-exception is Mister Paper himself, who in classic "shoulder angel" fashion will gently encourage and coax young artists.
Any more direct interaction would be uncommon, but never say never.
Why is this important?
Because, intentionally or not, a message kids can get from school is the idea that art (especially the visual arts) are something there's a trick to. Follow the special instructions and you'll be able to draw "right". Somehow, this message, implicit or blatant seems to discourage or confuse many kids, leading them to view art as something they can't, or worse, shouldn't try to do.
Also, Mister Paper helps children realize that "failure" is not something to fear or feel bad about, at least when it comes to creative pursuits. Learning to develop creative talents is hard. Success won't come easily, there may be many mistakes made...and there's nothing wrong with that!
He might say "that new drawing you made was pretty good. I know your next one will be even better!"
Often, kids need that encouragement, or else the special things they can share might be lost.
