FLINT, Michigan — Now throughout the summer, the Flint Institute of Arts (FIA) Art School is offering over 120 courses and workshops for kids and teens in Genesee County. Summer courses will include sessions on drawing, painting, glass, ceramics, photography, and more.
“We hope to inspire young artists to continue making things and thinking creatively,” said Donovan Entrekin, FIA's Director of the Art School. “Art has largely been drained from school curricula and there are fewer and fewer opportunities for young people to be exposed to what is arguably one of the bedrocks of human existence: making images and sharing stories.”
The idea of offering Art School classes during the summer came from FIA’s mission to increase community understanding and appreciation of art but also recognize how limited time is for families and children during the academic year.
“It is important for families to have opportunities for children to continue learning and exploring while school is out for the summer. It is also a great time for kids to relax and try things that they simply do not have time for during the hectic school months,” said Entrekin.
By expanding access to children interested in art, Entrekin believes the Art School is creating a safe learning environment that will allow aspiring artists to meet and build relationships with other artists in the studios with them. He sees the camps as beneficial to students in Genesee County who want to improve their art-making skills.
With that in mind, the FIA Art School designed the summer catalog to appeal to a variety of learners. According to Entrekin, “Summer opportunities provide kids with exciting, skills-based studio learning that provides them with authentic art experiences.”
During the program, participants can expect to learn fundamentals and strengthen their artistic skills in drawing, painting, and sculpting. This learning technique allows kids to bring their imagination to life while building confidence in their ideas and creations.
“The camps are led by working artists who share their enthusiasm, expertise, and creativity to inspire young artists to stretch their limits and challenge themselves,” said Entrekin.
He also shared that FIA Art School features unique programs and learning opportunities that are open to people of all ages and skill levels. The museum itself also offers a wide range of programming and opportunities for members of the community to experience art.
Outside of summer learning opportunities, FIA encourages all community members to come out to support the one-of-a-kind experience offered at FIA throughout the year. From world-class exhibits, Summer Patio Nights, and live music, community members are encouraged to come out this summer to enjoy all the things FIA offers as a public resource.
“The galleries are free to Genesee County residents; there are glass-blowing demonstrations every weekend; the Art School offers hundreds of courses and workshops for all ages and skill levels; there are lectures, movies, tours, etc. We exist for you,” said Entrekin.
FIA Art School summer registration is currently open and will run until August 14, 2023.
For more information, families are encouraged to call 810-237-7315 or register for the program online at the FIA's website. The 2023 Summer catalog of courses and workshops can be found here.
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