Reproduction of a Pithos Jar in the Family Forum of the Getty Villa, July 2008

The Family Forum is a highlight of any family visit to the Getty Villa. This fun space is filled with hands-on activities designed to encourage children and families to explore, play, and learn together.

The focus is on the world of ancient Greek vases—how they were made, decorated, and used. There's lots to touch, learn, and enjoy:

Step into a scene from an ancient vase in the shadow-pose area, where you can transform yourself into an athlete, musician, or even a monster and act out your own original stories.

Explore vase-painting techniques used by ancient craftsmen in the vase-decorating area, where you can rub patterns off designs inspired by ancient examples or draw on life-sized replicas of ancient vases.

Learn about vase shapes by experimenting with three-dimensional puzzles that allow you to construct different vase forms by piecing together building blocks.

Experience the feel of potters' clay, see a diorama of vases being fired inside a kiln, and step into an oversized replica of a pithos (a large vase with relief decoration) that projects from the wall.

Continue your adventure in the galleries with free activity guides, available in both English and Spanish, that explore some of the many Greek vases in the J. Paul Getty Museum's collection.

The Family Forum was created with the generous support of the Villa Council.

Text from: www.getty.edu/visit/events/family_forum.html