Teens looking to become the next Picasso or Van Gogh can draw on and enhance their skills at West Virginia University’s Mountaineer Summer Drawing Academy, July 24-26, in Morgantown.

The Drawing Academy is open to teens ages 14-17 and will enhance the student’s ability to understand space, place, perspective and structure while honing artistic skills.

Organizers say the camp will expand on the traditional drawing experience and offer the campers new types of artistic expression.

“Being on the WVU campus allows the campers access to subject-matter than can help them to grow as an artist,” said Dylan Collins, WVU School of Art and Design assistant professor. “We can bring in geocaching experts who will teach them how technology can lead them to new art forms.”

Campers will learn traditional drawing techniques like value and perspective but also incorporate techniques learned while participating in field trips to places like Cooper’s Rock State Park and the WVU Arboretum.

Collins says the campers will experience much of the same types of programs that first-year college art students complete. They will also have a chance to learn about college from their camp counselors who are currently WVU students.

The camp is a partnership between WVU Extension Service 4-H Youth Development Program and the WVU College of Creative Arts.
The camp is limited to 40 participants. The early-bird scholarship deadline is Friday, July 7.

Cost is $75 and includes room and board, and art supplies. Additional scholarships or funds may be available to those who qualify.

To apply, the student must submit a letter of recommendation from his/her art teacher or WVU Extension Service county agent. The student must also submit a portfolio of artwork, including any forms of media such as paintings, sculptures, ceramics, photographs or sketches.

Campers will also get to hone their public speaking skills as they partner and present at WVU Extension Service’s State 4-H Days at the end of camp.

For a complete list of portfolio items, or for more information on how to register for the camp, visit http://4-hyd.ext.wvu.edu/events_forms/mountaineer-summer-drawing-academy.

For more information about the WVU Extension Service, visit ext.wvu.edu. “Like” WVU Extension Service on Facebook, or follow @WVUExtension on Twitter.

-WVU-

cw 5/23/14

CONTACT: Cassie Waugh, WVU Extension Service
304.293.8735, Cassie.Waugh@mail.wvu.edu

Follow @WVUToday on Twitter.