Youth Programs
Tuition assistance for classes to those demonstrating need is available through the Ben & Ananda Bricker Scholarship Fund. The Amy L. Clark-Carels Memorial Fund generously supports youth programming supplies. ALSO, learn more about the Glen Lake Community School Students discount now available during class registration.
In addition to youth classes, select adult classes may be available to students ages 16 and 17 with approval. Call (231) 334-6112 to learn more.
Natural Dyes & Cultural Ties: How People Across the Globe Enhance Fabrics
Reflections & Expressions: Northern Michigan in Watercolor for Teens
Family Needle Felted Winter Creatures Ornaments—Community Class
Natural Dyes & Cultural Ties: How People Across the Globe Enhance Fabrics
Reflections & Expressions: Northern Michigan in Watercolor for Teens
Family Needle Felted Winter Creatures Ornaments—Community Class
Learning In The Arts Mentorship Program (L.A.M.P.)
The Learning in the Arts Mentorship Program (L.A.M.P.) is an immersive experience for individuals ages 16 to 22 exploring arts education, arts administration, and creative leadership. Through L.A.M.P., you’ll learn about careers in the arts beyond being a studio artist while supporting summer youth camps and building professional skills.
Program Benefits
L.A.M.P. participants engage in hands-on learning within a supportive arts environment, connecting with local artists, gallery owners, arts educators, and nonprofit leaders. Participants also receive a $1,000 stipend upon successful completion of the program.
Program Structure
Program Duration: June – August (dates vary)
Total Commitment: 33.5 hours
Orientation – Online Meeting – 1.5 hours
Date: Thursday, May 14, 2026
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 PM
Format: Virtual/online meeting
Those who are accepted into the program will join us for a relaxed, interactive virtual orientation to kick off L.A.M.P.! The session will be led by the GAAC Program Manager and supported by the Office Manager, who will guide you through the program, explain what to expect, and answer your questions. You’ll also hear from the Art Rangers camp teacher, who will share what you’ll be doing during c:9amp :sessions and how you’ll be helping support students.
Can’t make it live? Don’t worry—we’ll make sure you have the key information you need to get started and be ready for L.A.M.P.
Summer Camp Mentorship – GAAC 21 hours
Each participant will choose two weeks to support the summer art camps at the GAAC, with possible opportunities at our Thoreson Farm Studio.
Sessions run on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays from AM 9:00 – 11:30 PM.
Arrive 15 minutes early and stay 15 minutes after to help with set-up and clean-up.
Work alongside teaching artists, helping students and supporting camp activities.
Scheduling is based on your availability and program needs.
Optional: Additional paid days may be available for those who want to help out more.
Enrichment Days – GAAC – 6 hours
Dates: Monday, July 6 & Monday, July 27, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Hands-on learning days at GAAC, where we may:
Visit galleries and arts spaces
Meet with arts professionals
Collaborate with peers on creative projects
Gain experience in arts education and administration
Independent Work & Explorations – 5 hours
Complete about 5 hours of assignments on your own schedule.
Includes the “Go See” Exploration, where you:
Visit three creative venues of your choice
Observe how each venue uses art and creativity
Reflect on new ways each venue could engage the community
You may also have opportunities to participate in GAAC special programming and other creative projects.
Makeup opportunities are available if needed to meet program goals.
What L.A.M.P. Offers
L.A.M.P. provides high-quality mentorship and guided learning experiences in a nonprofit arts environment.
Participants gain:
- Hands-on experience in arts education, working with students and teaching artists
- Exposure to arts administration and leadership in nonprofit and for-profit arts organizations
- Insight into arts careers beyond being a studio artist
- Artist talks and opportunities to connect with working artists
- Portfolio review and feedback on your creative work
- Introduction to how exhibitions are curated and how galleries operate
- Visits to local arts organizations for behind-the-scenes insights
- Collaborative projects connecting art with the community
How to Apply
Application Deadline: Midnight, Monday, April 27, 2026
Selection Notification: Applicants will be notified by Monday, May 4, 2026
Application form below.
More Information
Contact us at 231-334-6112 for any questions or additional details.
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Youth Plein Air Month
Date: Month of July
Location: The Glen Arbor Arts Center and other inspiring outdoor locations.
Throughout July, children are invited to explore the world of plein air painting. They’ll learn basic skills, create art inspired by the buildings and landscapes of our region, and meet professional plein air artists. Each child will have the chance to display a painting in a public exhibition, with the experience concluding in a fun gathering and awards ceremony.
- Description
- Borrow a Plein Air Kit
- The Youth Plein Air Experience
- Exhibit + Gathering
- Events Schedule
Description
2026 Youth Plein Air Month
During the month of July, children ages 6–15 are invited to step outside and into the world of plein air painting, the practice of creating art outdoors. This immersive program introduces young artists to plein air painting, teaching them how to observe the environment and translate what they see into art while encouraging play, exploration, and creative confidence.
Guided by teaching artists and inspired by the beauty of our region’s landscapes and buildings, kids will create original works of art. Along the way, they’ll also have the unique opportunity to meet and paint alongside professional plein air artists, gaining firsthand insight into how working artists approach their craft.
Each child has the opportunity to select one of their paintings to be included in a special youth plein air exhibit, on view at the Glen Arbor Arts Center. The program concludes with a joyful community celebration and awards ceremony, where families, friends, and art lovers come together to recognize the creativity and accomplishments of these young plein air painters.
Whether your child is new to painting or already loves making art, Youth Plein Air Month offers a meaningful, hands-on way to grow their artistic voice and have a lot of fun doing it.
Thank you to the sponsors who made this possible
Michigan Architectural Foundation
Amy L. Clark-Carels Fund: “Kindness”
Glen Arbor Women’s Club
Mark Mehaffey
BLICK Art Materials
Borrow a Plein Air Kit
Date: Month of July
Location: Glen Arbor Arts Center Office
Cost: Free
Looking for a fun, creative way to get your child outside and engaged with art? Borrow a Plein Air Kit from the Glen Arbor Arts Center for FREE in July! These kits are designed for kids and include everything they need to start painting the world around them. Instructions are included and no experience is required.
It’s a simple, low-pressure way for kids to explore their creativity in the fresh air. Whether it’s here on the grounds of GAAC, your backyard, a park, or a favorite local spot, a Plein Air Kit helps turn any setting into an art adventure.
Here’s what you need to know
Who it’s for
Children, ages 6–15, with parent or guardian supervision.
What’s Included
Each kit contains supplies and instructions, including standing easels, canvases, paints, brushes, and a painters palette.
How long
Kits can be borrowed for up to 4 days during July.
Availability
We have lots of kits available, but they may go quickly when demand is high. To make sure one is ready for your child, we recommend contacting GAAC ahead of time to check on availability.
Pick-up and return
During regular office hours.
The Youth Plein Air Experience
Date: Saturday, July 11 (rain date July 12)
Location: Thoreson Farm (Port Oneida Historic District)
Cost: Free
A unique day of outdoor art and imagination awaits at the beautiful historical setting of Thoreson Farm, offering young artists a chance to connect with history through creativity.
Young artists will watch plein air painters in action and receive guidance as they create their own paintings, with all supplies provided. A storyteller brings history to life, inspiring the scenes they imagine. Presented by the Glen Arbor Arts Center in partnership with Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear.
What To Expect
Hands-On Painting
Kids ages 6–12 can try plein air painting with guidance from experienced artists. All supplies, including easels, canvases, and paints, are provided at no cost.
Imagining The Past
To inspire the imagination of a working homestead, this year’s event includes a featured storyteller and historical props provided by Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear, allowing young artists to visualize and capture the spirit of life on a vintage farm.
Live Demos
Watch professional artists demonstrate how to capture historic buildings and the natural beauty of Thoreson Farm.
Creative Encouragement
This day is about fun, experimentation, and connecting with the outdoors.
Event Schedule
Morning Session | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Featured Artists: Stephanie Schlatter & Jessica Kovan
Afternoon Session | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Featured Artists: Mark Mehaffey & Barbara Reich
Join for one or both sessions.
Important Information
What To Bring
While all painting supplies—including easels, canvases, and paints—are provided at no cost, we recommend bringing the following to ensure a comfortable day on the farm:
Paint-Friendly Clothing: Wear clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting a little messy. Art is fun, but paint can be permanent!
Sun Protection: The event is outdoors, so remember to bring sunblock, sunglasses, and a brimmed hat.
Bug Spray: Since we’ll be painting in a farm and field setting, a little insect repellent can go a long way.
Water & Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized while you work on your masterpiece.
A Camp Chair: While young artists will be busy at their easels, parents and guardians may want to bring a portable chair to relax and enjoy the scenery.
A Sense of Wonder: Bring your curiosity and your imagination as we explore the history of Thoreson Farm!
Registration
Just show up! While pre-registration isn’t required, an adult must complete a registration form on-site and remain to supervise their children.
In Case of Rain
A decision will be posted on the GAAC website and PHSB channels by Friday, July 10, at 6 PM.
Exhibit + Gathering
If you’re one of our young artists, this is your moment, come celebrate your hard work and creativity alongside your peers.
If you’re a proud parent, a visitor, or an art enthusiast, we invite you to experience the imagination and talent of these budding artists and join us in celebrating their accomplishments.
Exhibit
Location: Glen Arbor Arts Center Classroom
Dates and Time: August 3-6, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Cost: Free admission. A suggested donation of $5 helps support Youth Plein Air.
Artist Entry Process: Drop off your July plein air work at GAAC before August 3.
About: All participating Youth Plein Air Month artists, ages 6–15, are invited to exhibit one completed plein air painting. This public exhibit is a wonderful opportunity to see the world through the eyes of young creatives who’ve spent time in July capturing the beauty of the outdoors. Stop in and support their artistic efforts!
Gathering & Awards Ceremony
Location: Glen Arbor Arts Center Back Deck
Date: Thursday, August 6
Time: 6:00 pm
About: Join us for a relaxed and celebratory evening as we wrap up Youth Plein Air Month with a community gathering on the GAAC’s back deck. This special event brings together young artists, their families, friends, and the public to celebrate the creativity and effort poured into their work. A selection of outstanding work will receive awards of recognition. 2 youth jurors will be selecting the winners.
Award Winners
Award winners will be featured during the GAAC’s Plein Air Weekend, August [TBD], displayed alongside professional artists at both the Friday and Saturday exhibitions. This is an exciting opportunity for these young creatives to share the spotlight.
Events Schedule
Below you’ll find a detailed schedule of events for Youth Plein Air Month in July.
Paint with Free Plein Air Art Kits
Dates: Month of July
Cost: Free
Description: Young artists, ages 6–15, can borrow fully stocked plein air art kits, free of charge, with instructions. Use them on-site at the Glen Arbor Arts Center or take them on outdoor painting adventures. Contact GAAC about availability.
The Youth Plein Air Experience
Location: Thoreson Farm (Port Oneida Historic District)
Date: Saturday, July 11 (rain day: Sunday, July 12)
Time: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Cost: Free
Description: See “The Youth Plein Air Experience” Tab for details.
Exhibit
Location: GAAC Classroom
Exhibit Dates: August 3-6
Exhibit Hours: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Cost: Entry is free; a $5 donation helps support Youth Plein Air.
Description: Every child, age 6–15, is invited to exhibit one completed plein air painting in this public exhibit.
Gathering & Awards Ceremony
Description: The Youth Plein Air Exhibit concludes with a celebratory gathering and awards ceremony recognizing select works.
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