With a glimpse of warmer temperatures last month, it’s not so hard to imagine planning for summer. Indeed, many organizations are ready to register kids of all ages in a variety of camps and activities. There as many options as colors on a palette, with arts camps leading the list in popularity among children and parents alike.
At the Carlsbad Art Farm, campers in grades 2-8 work in small groups organized by age and led by artists who guide them in authentic drawing, painting, printing, and other art techniques using charcoals, paint, and other media at easels in a woodland setting. Live farm animals are used as models, including a miniature mule, a goat, alpacas, dogs, and free-range chickens. Plenty of well-supervised time between classes allows for exploring the grounds and interacting with the animals on the rural ten-acre property. Morning and afternoon sessions of week-long camps begin June 14. All registration information can be found on their Web site under the Camp tab. (director@carlsbadartfarm.com, www.carlsbadartfarm.com)
Lux Art Institute in Encinitas offers a summer-long creative outlet with individual weeks focused on drawing, painting, sculpture, mixed media, and printmaking, or the option to take all in a five-week art fest for kids ages 6-14. Register by June 1 for sessions beginning July 5. Class days and times vary by age. Campers have the option to participate in the Summer Camp Art Show on August 12 to show off their work. (760/436-6611, education@luxartinstitute.org, www.luxartinstitute.org)
Children will discover technical drawing and painting classes as well as mixed media and craft classes using materials like clay and balsa wood at My Art Shed in La Jolla. Basic yoga, stretching, and music are also incorporated into their week-long half- and full-day camps for kids ages 5-15. Taught by practicing artists and experienced educators, sessions boast a 7 to 1 or less student-to-teacher ratio. (858/454-4499, info@myartshed.com, www.myartshed.com) ANN RADCLIFFE
