By CLARKE STACKHOUSE / Staff Writer

 

COLUMBIANA— The art of famous American artists serves as the inspiration for the Shelby County Arts Council summer art camp the weeks of July 15-19 and July 22-26.

The summer camp, “Art Across America – Sea to Shining Sea” focuses on four American artists, Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, John James Audubon and Grandma Moses, said Susan Gordon, SCAC director of arts and education.

The focus on American artists allows the students to learn more about national history through the arts.

“They don’t just come from Europe. They come from here, the United States, and they are worthy of our time to study,” Gordon said.

The first week is for ages 5-8 and lasts from 8:30 a.m.- noon. for $135. The second week is for ages 9-12 and lasts from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. for $205. There is room for 10-12 kids each week

The kids will study a different artist every day, Gordon said.

“These five artists all found an original way to find a way to expression,” Gordon said.

They will be learning sculpture, collage, painting and pottery. Gordon said she is excited to have different instructors for the different art styles.

A Parisian pottery artist, Slyvie Popov, will teach the students pottery. Jerry Rolden will teach drawing for his second year at the camp.

Bruce Andrews will teach the older group blues harmonica on the same day they learn about the art of Grandma Moses, to celebrate the strong connection between folk art and blues music, Gordon said.

The students will also visit the 4H Center in Columbiana to paint outdoors while studying artist John James Audubon.

The kids will be able to express themselves through art and different mediums, and the camp teaches confidence through art and exposes them to new worlds, Gordon said.

“You can make anything into art. Trash is art, trash can be music,” Gordon said. “Anyone can be an artist.”

If interested in registering, visit Shelbycountyartscouncil.com.