Every Sunday, it's ArtTime/FamilyTime at the MFAH. On April 8, 15, 22, and 29,* look for signs in the main lobbies to tell you which gallery the Family Zone is located in that day. Spend time with the friendly family educators: sit on a pillow and read, sketch a work of art, and join in an investigation of a work of art. In the studio, create an art project inspired by original works of art on display in the Family Zone. This month's suite programs, related to the art of Dutch painter Willem van Aelst in the exhibition Elegance and Refinement: The Still-Life Paintings of Willem van Aelst, includes:

► Creation Station At this family-friendly workshop, artists encourage families to create art using materials or ideas similar to those used by the artist who created the day's featured work of art. Willem van Aelst’s still-life paintings are the inspiration for this month's art project. Farish Classroom has been transformed into a working art studio with two still-life arrangements on display and ready to be drawn by participants. An MFAH teaching artist helps with drawing techniques. Aprons and materials, including canvas panels and a variety of pencils, are provided.

► Gallery Investigations Visit the MFAH educator at the Gallery Cart and choose from looking games, books, and hands-on activities for families. As you delve into the art of Willem van Aelst, touch objects related to his large still-life painting of silver armor, gold objects, and more; try on a helmet and breastplate; create your own still-life arrangement; and explore more of the exhibition with touch bags.

► Sketching in the Galleries An MFAH teaching artist guides adults and children of all drawing levels at this informal program. Willem van Aelst’s still-life paintings, painted with incredible realism, are the inspiration for this informal sketching program. Materials and seating are provided.

► Sunday Storytime (begins at 1:30 p.m.) Make connections between a storybook and a work of art in the galleries. April offers two storybooks about the adventures of knights and dragons: Sir Ryan’s Quest by Jason Deeble and The Knight and the Dragon by Tomie DePaola. Compare these imaginative storybook worlds to a large still-life painting filled with silver armor and gold objects.

*En Abril, el Creation Station es dirigido por artista de Iistrucción bilingüe, Claudia Zopoaragon.  En los datos de Abril 15, 22, y 29 los Gallery Investigations y el Storytime son dirigidos por guía familiar bilingüe, Zully Wisniewski.