Summer Art Camp

SUMMER ART CAMP IS A TIME FOR IMAGINATIONS TO RUN WILD. CAMPERS WILL HAVE THE TIME OF THEIR LIVES CREATING ART AND WORKING ALONGSIDE PROFESSIONAL ARTISTS. EACH WEEK BRINGS A DIFFERENT ARTIST WITH NEW THEMES AND PROJECTS.

REGISTRATION OPENS APRIL 18th!

The registration button will take you to Active.com. You may wish to register with Active prior to camps opening. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Camp Location: Hughes Fine Arts Center, Room 111
Drop Off Time: 8:45 – 9:00 am
Pick Up Time: 3:00 – 3:15 pm

Parking is located in the Hughes Fine Arts Center lot

Lunches and Snacks:
Each camper must bring their lunch.
Please note there is no access to refrigeration or heating appliances. Campers cannot be allowed to use vending machines. Snacks will be provided by the Museum once a day, e.g., a juice box and serving-size bag of chips.

We appreciate that some parents offer to supply snacks for the day. If you wish to do this, please let us know a day in advance.

Suggestions to Pack:
Ask your camper(s) to wear appropriate clothes that can get stained. After all, this is an art-making camp and we’ll be getting messy.

Each camper is assigned a locker. You may wish to consider packing a sweater or light jacket (air conditioning in the building can get really cool), comfortable shoes for standing, walking, and playing outside, hat or sunglasses, and sunscreen. Please mark all items. Leftover items are donated at the end of each camp.

Receptions:
On Fridays at 2:00 pm the campers design and hold a brief reception and art show for parents, friends, and family. Park in the same area that you drop them off in the morning. The campers are proud of their week’s work. We encourage you to show your support by attending the reception. This is also a time for you to meet the teaching artist, Museum staff, and all the other campers and families that make camps possible. Please prepare to take home the artwork at 3:00 pm, after the reception. You will want to bring your camera.

MEMBERSHIPS

Household memberships are $100 a year, which allow families to receive Museum member rates to Summer Art Camps and other Museum benefits as well. Become a member before you register.

Click here for membership information

SPONSOR A CHILD

If you are interested in sponsoring a child in the way of a full or partial scholarship, please contact Museum Staff at (701) 777 – 4195. Sponsors will be noted in Museum education publications. Donations are tax-deductible.

SCHOLARSHIPS

Scholarships are limited, and early applications are encouraged. To apply, please send a brief email explaining your need to the Director of Education at mjhaji-sheikh@ndmoa.com.

Scholarships are partial and require some financial participation from the family.

PREMIUM SPONSORS 

A pizza party at the end of every week! Thank you!

2023 SPONSORS

UND Department of Art and Design, special Thank You for your ongoing support these past 25 years!

Bruggraf’s Ace Hardware, Grand Forks
Economy Plumbing – Richard McGurran
GF Parks District – Ulland Grant
UND Summer Events Council

 

During the 2022 Autumn Art Auction, these individuals
donated to support the Summer Art Camps.

Ted Sandberg – $1,500
Susan & Paul Sproule – $1,500
Kristi & Brent Jiran – $1,000
Vicki & Dean Gorder – $1,000
Laurie & Mark Guy – $500
Dave & Karen Molmen – $500
Jesse Mikula – $500
Sandra & Tim Crary – $250
John Clayburgh – $250
Ashley & Andy Shea – $250
Julie & Shawn Leake – $250
Christie & Todd Aleshire – $100
Mara Jiran – $100

2023 SUMMER ART CAMPS

Camp 1, Room 111

JEANNE O’NEIL

“Prints, Sculptures, and Fun: Oh My!”
Ages 6 to 13
June 12 – 16
9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Members $200
Non-members $250

Get ready to unleash your creativity at our Printmaking and Sculpture Art Camp for Kids! This thrilling camp is the perfect place for children to dive into the world of visual art and explore two exciting mediums: printmaking and sculpture.

Throughout the camp, children will be introduced to the principles and techniques of printmaking, including relief printing with foam plates, multiple color and rainbow rolls, relief collagraph plates, and stenciling. They will have the chance to experiment with various materials and tools, unleashing their imaginations and bringing their unique designs to life.

But that’s not all! Children will also discover the exciting world of sculpture. They will learn various techniques, such as using glue and wood scraps to create architectural pieces and wire sculptures to make animals using wire, beads, and feathers. And for those who love collaborating, we will construct group mobiles.

Our experienced and enthusiastic teacher, Jeanne O’Neil, will guide the children through each step of the creative process, helping them to develop their skills, express their unique vision, and learn from one another. With opportunities to work independently and collaboratively, children will leave this camp with an impressive collection of prints and sculptures that they can cherish for years to come. Join us for a fun and inspiring art adventure!

Jeanne O’Neil is an artist specializing in printmaking. She has also worked in fiber arts and as a professional mural artist. Jeanne is a musician and dance caller, playing banjo and concertina, and is co-founder of the North Country Fiddle and Dance community organization. She taught 3rd, 4th and 5th grade art as an Artist in the Classroom in the Grand Forks elementary schools. Jeanne currently teaches printmaking at the University of North Dakota.

Camp 2, Room 111

EMILY WIRKUS

“Acting Up: Theatrical Imagination Workshop”
Ages 6 to 13
June 19 – 23
9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Members $200
Non-members $250

Welcome to our Theatrical Imagination Art Camp! This workshop is all about unleashing creativity, and letting imaginations run wild. Over the course of the week, participants will have the unique opportunity to work together to create a full theatrical production from scratch.

Throughout the workshop, children will learn about the key elements of storytelling, including character, plot, and setting. They will explore different techniques for creating compelling characters and building an engaging story, and then work together to cast, choreograph, and design a full production. With the help of our camp helpers, children will also learn the basics of face painting and makeup, and how these techniques can be used to create dynamic and engaging characters.

The key to this workshop is a spirit of play and invention. Every element of the show will be created by and for the participants themselves, using their own unique talents and interests. From costume design to set building, every aspect of the production will be a collaborative effort, with children working together to bring their ideas to life.

Under the guidance of our Emily, children will have the opportunity to develop their skills in acting, writing, design, and production. They will also learn about the importance of teamwork and collaboration, as they work together to create a magical and unforgettable theatrical experience.

At the end of the week, children will perform their own unique theatrical production, showcasing their creativity, imagination, and talent. This workshop is the perfect opportunity for children to let their imaginations run wild, and to explore the limitless possibilities of theatrical storytelling. Join us for a week of fun, play, and creativity, as we bring our own unique theatrical vision to life!

 

Emily is a North Dakota based director/choreographer, and faculty with University of North Dakota Theatre Arts. She is thrilled to call North Dakota home again, after taking a brief hiatus for studies and freelance work. Her upcoming projects include Devised Movement Specialist for The Conference of the Birds at University of North Dakota, and Director/Choreographer for Shrek: The Musical at Firehall Theatre. Emily holds a dual MFA in Acting and Directing from Western Illinois University, and a BFA in Musical Theatre from University of North Dakota. When she’s not working on the stage, you can catch her making a mean cup of coffee and hanging out with her two fur babies Peek & Persephone.

Camp 3, Room 111

ZAUNA SYNNOTT

“Reclaimed Creations: A Recycled Art Camp for Kids”
Ages 6 to 13
June 26 – 30
9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Members $200
Non-members $250

Welcome to our exciting art camp, where kids work with a professional artist who uses recycled materials and found objects to create fantastic artwork! This camp is designed to inspire creativity, promote environmental awareness, and teach children about the power of art to transform everyday objects into something beautiful and meaningful.

Throughout the camp, children will have the unique opportunity to work alongside a professional artist who specializes in creating art from recycled materials and found objects. They will learn about the artist’s creative process, from sourcing materials to conceptualizing and creating works of art.

Using various materials such as metal, wood, plastics, and textiles, children will experiment with different techniques, tools, and materials, transforming discarded objects into stunning works of art. They will learn the importance of reducing waste, reusing materials, and repurposing everyday objects.

In addition to creating their own artwork, children can work collaboratively on group projects, sharing ideas and inspiration with their fellow campers. They will learn about the power of teamwork and creativity to solve problems and positively impact the world around them.

Throughout the camp, our experienced and enthusiastic instructors will guide the children through each step of the creative process, helping them to develop their skills, express themselves, and think critically about the world around them.

At the end of the camp, children will have a collection of stunning works of art that they can take home and proudly display. This camp is a wonderful opportunity for children to explore their creativity, learn about the importance of sustainability, and develop new skills in a fun and supportive environment.

 

Zauna Synnott is an artist living in Grand Forks. She started creating from a young age, using found objects and scraps to make her own toys and forts. Zauna has fun with all forms of art including fibers, polymer clay, watercolors, and oil painting. In Zauna’s spare time, she enjoys reading, learning new things, and doing a variety of creative projects. She has her degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in art from UND. She teaches adult oil painting courses for the Grand Forks Park District. Zauna is also the manager for the Indigenous Health department at UND.

Camp 4 and 5, Room 111

LIGIA CARINA FEO

“Art Jamz: The Groovy, Nature-Inspired, and Movement-Fueled Art Camp”
Ages 3-6 (with guardian)
July 5-7
10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Members $50
Non-members $75

“Art Jamz: The Groovy, Nature-Inspired, and Movement-Fueled Art Camp”
Ages 6-13
July 5-7
1:00 – 3:00 pm

Members $50
Non-members $75

Welcome to our exciting Art Camp inspired by music, nature, visual art, and movement! This camp is designed to provide children with a multi-faceted experience of creativity, allowing them to explore the different ways in which art can be expressed.

Throughout the camp, children will be guided through a series of activities that combine music, nature, visual art, and movement. They will learn about different musical styles and instruments, and how music can be used to inspire visual art and movement. They will explore the natural world around them, using the beauty of nature as inspiration for their art.

Children will also have the opportunity to learn about different visual art techniques, such as drawing, painting, and collage. They will experiment with different materials and tools, creating their own unique works of art inspired by the music, nature, and movement around them.

In addition to visual art, children will also engage in movement activities such as dance and yoga, allowing them to express themselves in new and exciting ways.

Ligia will guide the children through each activity, encouraging them to explore their creativity and express themselves uniquely. This camp is a wonderful opportunity for children to explore their creativity, develop new skills, and make lasting memories in a fun and supportive environment.

Ligia Carina Feo is from Argentina. In her country, she has worked as a music teacher in public schools and music academies and as a violist in numerous orchestras. Currently, she directs a violin and viola studio at Arioso Music Academy and teaches at Central High.

Camp 6, Room 111

TAIT SIMONSON

“3D Fab-lab-ulous!”
Ages 6 to 13
July 10 – 14
9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Members $200
Non-members $250

Welcome to our thrilling Art Camp where kids will get to work with a professional artist to create 3D printed artwork inspired by wild animals and mythical creatures! This camp is designed to spark creativity, promote innovative thinking, and introduce children to the cutting-edge technology of 3D printing.

Throughout the camp, children will work alongside a professional artist who specializes in 3D printing. They will learn about the creative possibilities of this exciting technology, including the ability to create intricate and detailed designs that bring their imagination to life.

Drawing inspiration from wild animals and mythical creatures, children will create their own unique designs using a variety of tools and software programs. They will learn about the principles of 3D printing, including modeling, slicing, and printing, as they bring their designs to life using state-of-the-art 3D printers.

In addition to creating their own artwork, children will also have the opportunity to work collaboratively on group projects, sharing ideas and inspiration with their fellow campers. They will learn about the importance of teamwork, communication, and creative problem-solving.

Throughout the camp, enthusiastic instructor Tait Simonson will guide the children through each step of the creative process, helping them to develop their skills, express themselves, and think critically about the world around them.

At the end of the camp, children will have a collection of stunning 3D printed artworks that they can take home and proudly display. This camp is a wonderful opportunity for children to explore their creativity, learn about cutting-edge technology, and develop new skills in a fun and supportive environment. Join us and unleash your imagination!

Tait Simonson grew up in both North & South Dakota, today he does most of his creative art work from the greater Grand Forks Area, in North Dakota. He attended undergraduate school at the University of South Dakota receiving his Bachelor of Fine Art Degree with an emphasis in Sculpture. He then went on to attend graduate school at the Pacific Northwest College of Fine Art to receive his Master’s of Fine Arts degree and then his Bachelor of Science in Education from VCSU. Since then he has been teaching Art and Technology and Engineering Education at Central Valley Public School K-12. He specializes in sculpture and, focuses on light based architecturally responsive work, he also enjoys working with: technology systems, metal, clay, resin, wood and any other material he can.

Camp 7, Room 111

KASANDRA GREGOIRE

“Monstrous Fiber Art Camp: Where Imagination Comes to Life!”
Ages 6 to 13
July 17 – 21
9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Members $200
Non-members $250

Welcome to our exciting Art Camp where kids will have the opportunity to work with a highly regarded fiber artist to create beautiful artworks using embroidery, sewing, and crochet techniques! This camp is designed to inspire creativity, promote artistic expression, and introduce children to the wonderful world of fiber arts.

Throughout the camp, children will work alongside a talented and experienced fiber artist who will guide them through a variety of projects, including creating works inspired by imaginary creatures and wild monsters. They will learn about different fiber art techniques, including embroidery, sewing, and crochet, and how to use them to create unique and beautiful works of art.

Using a range of materials, including yarns, fabrics, and threads, children will experiment with different stitches and techniques, exploring the creative possibilities of fiber art. They will learn how to use color, texture, and pattern to bring their imaginative creatures and monsters to life.

In addition to creating their own artwork, children will have the opportunity to work collaboratively on group projects, sharing ideas and inspiration with their fellow campers. They will learn about the importance of teamwork, communication, and creative problem-solving.

Throughout the camp, our friendly and experienced instructors will guide the children through each step of the creative process, helping them to develop their skills, express themselves, and think critically about the world around them.

At the end of the camp, children will have a collection of beautiful works of art that they can take home and proudly display. This camp is a wonderful opportunity for children to explore their creativity, learn about fiber arts, and develop new skills in a fun and supportive environment. Join us for an unforgettable summer of art and imagination!

Kasandra Gregoire: “I grew up in Grand Forks and always loved art. In elementary school I would make my own paper dolls and had hundreds by the time I graduated. I also loved watching crafting shows and making flowers with polymer clay, eventually making clay frogs that looked like people in popular culture. In high school I discovered a passion for watercolor painting, particularly of flowers. I went to UND and received a degree in art with minors in art history and photography as well as a Masters in Elementary Education. Now I teach art throughout Grand Forks and the region. I enjoy learning about and playing around with new styles of art and combining different media to create something unique. My favorite materials are watercolors, polymer clay, fiber art, and printmaking. My other hobbies are gardening and going on nature adventures with my family.

Camp 8, Room 111

EMILY DENKER

“Painting Odyssey: From Art History to Modern Masterpieces”
Ages 6 to 13
July 24 – 28
9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Members $200
Non-members $250

Artists, get ready! In this exciting camp children will get to work with a contemporary artist and teacher to learn about all the different painting methods, from art history to modern art painting practices. This camp is designed to ignite creativity, foster artistic skills and inspire young artists’ imagination.

Throughout the camp, children will learn from a seasoned artist who has honed their skills through years of experience in various painting mediums. They will discover the beauty of classical techniques and the power of modern approaches, allowing them to experiment and explore the infinite possibilities of painting.

From there, the children will learn about different painting mediums, including watercolor, acrylic, oil, and mixed media. They will explore techniques such as color theory, composition, and brushwork, and learn how to use different tools and materials to achieve different effects.

In addition to learning about painting techniques and art history, children will also have the opportunity to create their own unique artwork, using the knowledge they have gained to express their individuality and creativity.

Throughout the camp, our experienced and enthusiastic instructors will guide the children through each step of the creative process, providing support and encouragement, as they develop their skills and confidence in painting.

At the end of the camp, children will have a collection of their own unique and beautiful artwork to take home and display proudly. This camp is a wonderful opportunity for children to expand their artistic knowledge, learn new techniques, and express their creativity in a fun and supportive environment. Join us for an unforgettable summer of art and learning!

Hello! My name is Emily Dencker, I graduated from Concordia College in Moorhead MN with a degree in Art Education in 2021. I’m currently finished my first year teaching elementary art in St. Cloud! I’ve had really amazing jobs, internships, and clinicals working with art students of all ages in schools and other related youth programming. I love to make art, and even more, I love to facilitate and teach creative students in their art exploration process. My favorite type of art to make is painting; I especially enjoy watercolor and gouache painting, but I really love making and creating anything and everything! I hope that in this class all of the students grow in their painting abilities and in their creative thinking skills, and most importantly have a fun time creating with others!

Camp 9, Room 111

CARRIE SAPA

“Bugs & Brushes: A Camp for the Creative Crawly!”
Ages 6 to 13
July 31 – August 4
9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Members $200
Non-members $250

Welcome to our bug-tastic Art Camp! Here, your little artists will have the unique opportunity to work with a highly skilled artist and teacher to create artwork inspired by the amazing world of bugs.

Throughout the camp, children will learn about the fascinating life of bugs, from their miniature size to their incredible abilities. They will explore their characteristics, including their colors, patterns, and textures, and use this knowledge to create unique and quirky bug-themed artwork.

Using a variety of materials, such as paints, markers, and paper, the children will get to create their own unique bugs, and then use them as inspiration to create artwork. They will experiment with different techniques, including watercolor, collage, and sculpture, to bring their buggy creations to life.

Our experienced instructor will guide the children through each step of the creative process, helping them to develop their skills and express their creativity. They will also teach them how to incorporate humor into their artwork, to create bug-inspired pieces that are as fun to look at as they are to create.

Throughout the camp, children will have a blast exploring their imaginations, getting creative, and laughing at the silly side of bugs. They will also make new friends, learn new skills, and develop their confidence as young artists.

At the end of the camp, children will have a collection of bug-tastic artwork to take home and display proudly. This camp is the perfect opportunity for children to get inspired, get creative, and have fun in a supportive and nurturing environment. Join us for a buggy adventure this summer!

 

Carrie Sapa is a fine artist and Art Educator that explores mediums in printmaking, ceramics, drawing and textile arts. She currently is teaching as the visual arts teacher at Sacred Heart High School in East Grand Forks, MN. She has received grants, such as McElroy-Edwards Jackie Art Distribution Fund Scholarship, and UND Native American Fund Scholarship. Along with the grants, her fine artwork pieces have been shown at two student shows, and one national juried show “When Things are Strange Exhibition” in 2017, and her BFA show “Land of Saints” in 2018 at Colonel Eugene Myers Gallery of Art, UND. While her art is in a wide variety of mediums, there is an overstretching theme of her memories and interaction with people engulfed in her work. While creating her own body of art, Carrie Sapa enjoys teaching students how to create their own art with a wide diversity of mediums while incorporating history, science, and art fundamentals.

Camp 10, Room 111

ANNA JACOBSON

“Super Screen Prints: A Heroic Art Camp”
Ages 8 to 16
August 7 – 11
9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Members $200
Non-members $250

Welcome to our Superhero Screen Printing Art Camp! Here, your young artists will get the chance to work with a celebrated artist and teacher to learn all about the exciting world of screen printing.

Throughout the camp, children will learn about the different techniques involved in screen printing, from creating their own stencils to printing on a range of surfaces, including paper and fabric. They will also be introduced to the history of screen printing, from its origins to its modern-day applications.

Inspired by movie posters and superheroes, the children will create their own unique designs, exploring color, composition, and typography. They will experiment with a range of materials, including ink, paper, and fabric, to create their own superhero-inspired works of art.

Under the guidance of our experienced instructor, children will develop their skills and knowledge of screen printing, while also fostering their creativity and self-expression. They will learn about the power of collaboration, and how to work together to create unique and dynamic artwork.

At the end of the camp, children will have a collection of their own superhero-inspired screen printed art to take home and display proudly. This camp is the perfect opportunity for children to learn a new skill, express their creativity, and create artwork that celebrates the power of imagination and heroism. Join us for an unforgettable summer of superhero screen printing!

Anna Jacobson grew up on a family-owned organic farm near Wales, ND . Encouraged and influenced by her educator and farmer father, Terry and artist and farmer mother, Janet. Janet is a fiber artist and part of the duo know as North Dakota Wooly Girls. Anna continues to carry the love of the land, education and art with her in her 25 year journey in the field of art. Jacobson believes everyone should have the opportunity to experience art. Art should be part of a balanced and life-long education, providing learners of all ages with essential skills and knowledge they need to be productive and caring. Anna is printmaker, teaching artist, fine art framer, and educator. Jacobson received her BA in studio arts from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN in 2003 and her Master in Fine Arts degree from the University of North Dakota in 2010.

Anna is a teaching artist with the North Dakota Council on the Arts. She has worked with the resident artist programs for elementary schools and also with the Art for Life program. She was a resident artist for The Arts Center in 2013-2015, teaching in the local elementary schools, arts after school program and also adult classes. Anna has taught workshops all over the state; Northern Lights Arts Council, Nelson County Arts, North Dakota Museum of Art and most recently Encore Arts Camp at Frost Fire near Walhalla, ND. Anna taught printmaking at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks and the University of Jamestown in Jamestown, ND. Along with teaching art Anna is a professional framer of fine art work. In October 2021 Anna moved back to her home state to join the team at the Jamestown Fine Art Association (The Arts Center) as the Director of Education and Exhibitions.