We empower students of all ages to encourage a lifelong love of art and creativity. Our learning programs include classes, camps, outreach events and more.

Using the Amherst Writers (AWA) method, beginning and experienced writers will explore fiction, creative non-fiction and poetry. This group will focus on in-class writing, optional sharing and positive feedback in a supportive environment. Optional writing prompts are designed to help writers with craft and creativity. The instructor is an AWA certified affiliate. Please bring paper and a pen.

$90 / $81 LCA Members, + $10 supply fee*

Learn and expand upon a range of concepts, strategies and processes that are part of creating abstract artwork. Techniques used in mixed media and acrylic painting will be presented as well as historical information, examples of contemporary abstract artwork and color theory. Materials list is provided upon registration.

$145 / $131 LCA Members

Young artists will use natural materials from the beach to create mixed media artwork. Using materials such as beach glass, branches and seashells, students will learn how to create unique nautical artworks. Work from observation and imagination. All materials are provided.

$95 / $85 LCA Members

Students will layer various materials to create interesting works of art on canvas using paint, paper, fabrics and more. Techniques such as pouring, glazing and impasto will be incorporated with the various textured elements. Using expressive and experimental styles while incorporating original imagery will create a fun and challenging environment for both experienced and novice artmakers. Materials list is provided upon registration.

$55 / $50 LCA Members

Specifically designed for young children, participants will experience a sensory rich environment to learn more about music and socialize with others. Exploring different cultures through instruments and music, this course encourages physical movement, neurological stimulation and supports fine motor skills. Class exercises include vocal play, bonding exercises, learning instruments, musical concepts and more! One parent or guardian must be present during the duration of the class. All materials are provided.

$95 / $85 LCA Members

Young artists will learn and discuss various techniques used in drawing portraits. Develop skills involved in constructing accurate facial features and creating a balanced composition for a figure drawing. Sketching practices will be offered through the observation of real-life modeling and photographic references. All materials are provided.

*Classes will not meet on June 19*

$95 / $85 LCA Members

Tailored specifically for teens, this class allows students to create a unique outfit of their own design. Starting with conceptual sketching, students will move through the process of fashion design in a fun and creative environment. Working with the instructor, students will gain practical experience in fashion design through several modeled sewing and embroidery techniques. All materials are provided.

*Classes will not meet on July 4*

$95 / $85 LCA Members

Learn how to create stunning botanical illustrations through observation and attention to detail in this engaging workshop. Sketching from a display of live floral arrangements, participants will use graphite to create a preliminary sketch for fine details and forms. Guided by the sketch, participants will bring their image to life using watercolor. Materials list is provided upon registration.

$55 / $50 LCA Members

Join fellow art enthusiasts for lively discussions and riveting art presentations centered around gardens. In the past, in addition to being admired for their beauty, gardens had medical, spiritual and ideological associations. Gain insight into this topic while observing the relationships between gardens and history, technology, the climate crisis and the inter-connectedness of all life on earth. All materials are provided.

$65 / $59 LCA Members

The prose poem is a hybrid creature adept in traversing emotional and situational terrain, often inhabiting interstitial spaces, such as the season in the seam of autumn to winter. This generative writing workshop will focus on the prose poem as a source of inspiration and gift to each of us as readers and writers. We’ll talk about the differences between prose and prose poetry and give a close read of stellar published examples. Expect to create at least one prose poem in class, plus something surprising in an in-class exercise.

$55 / $50 LCA Members

Back by popular demand, experience the design process from start to finish. Students will step into the shoes of a clothing designer to create a fashion line through sketches, designs and fabric assembly. Using repurposed materials, campers will learn simple sewing techniques to design and model their own creations. Family and friends are invited on Friday, July 18 at noon to join our designers for a runway show.

Each five day, in-person program is $135 / $122 for LCA members. All weekly camps run from 9 AM to 1 PM (Central), Monday through Friday. Campers need to bring a nut-free lunch and dress for mess!

This workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore the fundamentals of figure drawing with a live, clothed model. Study the human form in various dynamic poses, focusing on accurate proportions, anatomy and movement. Whether you’re a beginner or have previous experience, this workshop provides personalized guidance to help you improve your technique and confidence. Materials list is provided upon registration.

$55 / $50 LCA Members

Never grow up! Join our crew of young friends as we travel to a world of pirate ships, mermaids and pixie dust! Using unique materials and whimsical designs, campers will make art inspired by the classic children’s tale. Family and friends are invited on Friday, July 25 at noon to explore where dreams are born, and time is never planned.

Each five day, in-person program is $135 / $122 for LCA members. All weekly camps run from 9 AM to 1 PM (Central), Monday through Friday. Campers need to bring a nut-free lunch and dress for mess!

Learn how whimsical aesthetics and imaginative designs can create unique landscapes in this workshop. Using the versatile medium of gouache paint, students will experiment with color and form to create abstract landscapes. Live demonstrations will guide class participants through the creative process while experimenting with various brush strokes and values. Materials list is provided upon registration.

$55 / $50 LCA Members

Explore a world of ferocious beasts and mysterious creatures born from myths, legends and lore across the globe. Sculpt, draw and design your favorite creatures while learning about their history and homeland. Family and friends are invited on Friday, August 8 at noon to observe these strange species on display.

Each five day, in-person program is $135 / $122 for LCA members. All weekly camps run from 9 AM to 1 PM (Central), Monday through Friday. Campers need to bring a nut-free lunch and dress for mess!