Wayne Township Education Foundation
News Details
![Photo of Robey art teacher, Rob Keeler, working with students on miniature masterpieces]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1745857908/waynek12inus/sj6s1q2pqvdumaikgbyl/2025-robey-minature-masterpieces.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1745857908/waynek12inus/sj6s1q2pqvdumaikgbyl/2025-robey-minature-masterpieces.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1745857908/waynek12inus/sj6s1q2pqvdumaikgbyl/2025-robey-minature-masterpieces.jpg","width":550}])
May 2025
It’s said that good things come in small packages. It’s likely Rob Keeler would agree, as he watches his students create what he calls “miniature masterpieces.”
Miniature painting is the art of painting small, highly detailed figures, commonly used in tabletop games like Warhammer 40K and Dungeons & Dragons,” Keeler said. “This hobby involves painting tiny models ranging from fantasy heroes and monstrous creatures to futuristic soldiers using specialized techniques like layering, dry brushing, and shading to bring them to life.”
Rob has been teaching art in the MSD of Wayne Township for 19 years, the last two at Robey Elementary. He noticed an interest in these tabletop games among some of his students, and believed they would enjoy and benefit from being able to paint the miniature figures used in those games. From that, the idea of his Miniature Painting Club was born. Funding from the Wayne Township Education Foundation and DonorsChoose helped Rob purchase materials to set the club in motion.
“Learning to paint miniature figures enhances fine motor skills, patience, and focus while fostering creativity through color theory and artistic techniques,” Rob said. “It also encourages problem solving, boosts confidence, and provides a relaxing, meditative outlet for stress relief. Additionally, the hobby promotes social interaction and teamwork, especially when tied to tabletop gaming communities.”
Twelve students are now part of the Miniature Painting Club. Members meet before school starts on Wednesday mornings.
“Grant money from organizations like the Wayne Township Education Foundation is essential for projects like the Miniature Painting Club because it provides funding for supplies, including miniatures, paints, and brushes, making the hobby accessible to all students,” Rob said. “It helps create hands-on learning opportunities that develop creativity, fine motor skills, and problem-solving without financial barriers. Additionally, funding supports the growth of unique, engaging programs that enrich students’ educational experiences beyond the traditional curriculum.”
ABOUT THE WAYNE TOWNSHIP EDUCATION FOUNDATION
The Wayne Township Education Foundation (WTEF) provides community leadership to enrich, engage, and stimulate teaching and learning in the Metropolitan School District of Wayne Township. WTEF accomplishes this by supporting school programs and resources, while recognizing excellence among students and staff. To learn more about WTEF and/or establishing a named, designated fund, call 317-988-7966, visit wtef.wayne.k12.in.us, or follow us on Facebook or Twitter @WayneTwpEdFound.