The Torggler’s summer art camps are run June 17 - August 15 and serve children ages 5-14 in three age groups: 5-7, 8-10, and 11-14. Camps are half-day classes held four days per week, typically Monday through Thursday. Register for both morning and afternoon sessions to enjoy a full day of art camp, complete with a supervised lunch period and optional after-care if desired.
This year’s camps are more fun and creative than ever, and include digital art, ceramics, mixed-media, sculpture, painting, felting, and so much more! All camps are taught by qualified professional instructors who love art – and many of whom have decades of teaching experience. Join us for a summer of creative fun!
Call us at (757) 594-0800 if you have further questions or if you need help registering. We can't wait to see you at the Torggler this summer!
Course Offerings
A World of Watercolor
Description
This is not your grandma’s watercolor class! In this camp, participants will learn the techniques needed to create rich and beautiful watercolors. Color mixing, composition, and special effects will help students create a variety of artworks such as galaxies, landscapes, and artist-inspired pieces. Join us and dive into the wonderful world of watercolor.Details
- Age: 11-14
- Dates: Monday, August 5 - Thursday, August 8
- Time: 9 a.m. - noon
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Jill Candusso currently teaches ceramics at two York County schools. She has a passion for painting, and taught drawing, sculpture and painting for many years at the Peninsula Fine Arts Center.
Acrylic Art Adventures
Description
This beginner-friendly acrylic painting class is designed for young artists to explore the magic of painting with acrylic on canvas. With step-by-step guidance, kids will learn fundamental techniques, experiment with vibrant colors, and bring their imaginations to life on the canvas.Details
- Age: 8-10
- Dates: Monday, July 29 - Thursday, August 1
- Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Brooke Fujiwara, from Ashburn, VA, is currently attending Christopher Newport University, where she majors in studio art with a concentration in 2D/3D media. Additionally, she has been accepted into the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program to become an art teacher upon graduation. Brooke has always had a passion for teaching students and currently works as a substitute teacher in both her hometown and Newport News.Beyond the Brush
Description
Discover the art of painting with nontraditional items. From everyday objects to unconventional tools, participants will have a blast exploring unique techniques that redefine the boundaries of painting, and using ordinary items to create extraordinary masterpieces!Details
- Age: 8-10
- Dates: Monday, July 29 - Thursday, August 1
- Time: 9 a.m. - noon
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Amani Riley is a recent graduate of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. She is an art teacher in the Newport News Public Schools and holds a BA in visual arts. Painting and graphic design are her main interests. Riley is passionate about instilling in young people the value of art in all aspects of life.Chinese New Year Celebration
Description
Get ready for a roaring good time as we celebrate the Year of the Dragon! Campers will party their way through this festive camp creating dragon puppets, masks, decorations, and more. Join us for a fiery celebration of the Year of the DragonDetails
- Age: 5 - 7
- Dates: Monday, August 5 - Thursday, August 8
- Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Sheila Scotti has taught painting in Newport New Public Schools for 13 years, and currently teaches at Warwick High School.
Creative Critters
Description
Take a wild journey with us for an animal-themed week of fun. From creature paintings to animal collages, we'll explore a range of artistic expressions. Get ready for some hands-on fun with lions, flamingos, giant lovable bugs, elephant masterpieces, and more. Join us for a week of artistic adventure where we will explore the wild array of animals in the Anna Hyatt Huntington Exhibition!Details
- Age: 5 - 7
- Dates: Monday, August 12 - Thursday, August 15
- Time: 9 a.m. - noon
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Joanna Lucky graduated from Christopher Newport University in 2023 with a B.S. in Psychology and a minor in Studio Art with a concentration in Photography and Video Art. Currently, she is pursuing a graduate degree at William and Mary. Her favorite medium is photography. She also enjoys painting, collage, and other mediums. She's always excited to share her passion for art with children and others.Diorama and 3D-Printing Adventure August Session
Description
Hold on tight as we guide you through an amazing adventure! Campers will learn how to design and print an original 3D mini sculpture using Tinker Cad and the 3D printer. Campers will create a miniature diorama, featuring digital images, collages, and paint, which will serve as the backdrop to display their 3D-printed creations.Details
- Age: 8-10
- Dates: Monday, August 12 - Thursday, August 15
- Time: 9 a.m. - noon
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Kailin Little, a native of Farmville, has been studying and practicing art from an early age and is currently attending Christopher Newport University, majoring in Studio Art with a concentration in Graphic Design. She has been accepted into the MAT program and plans to become an art teacher following graduation. Kailin has had a passion for children and art and looks forward to a career in art education.
Fantastical Magical Tales
Description
Take a journey with us through magical realms, creating whimsical artworks of all things fantastical. From dragons to mermaids, young artists will explore paint, mixed media, and sculpture, using a wide variety of materials to bring these magical creations to life.Details
- Age: 5 - 7
- Dates: Monday, July 29 - Thursday, August 1
- Time: 9 a.m. - noon
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Rhiannen Sears is a graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio, holding a BFA with a concentration in ceramics, and a minor in art history and criticism. She holds a master's degree in art education (MAT) from Christopher Newport University. Rhiannen is a proficient and knowledgeable ceramicist. She has taught many workshops and currently is teaching ceramics at Lafayette High School in Williamsburg.Fun with Felt
Description
Dive into the enchanting world of felt board activities as campers craft their very own travel felt board. With an array of colorful felt shapes, they'll bring their imagination to life, creating interactive stories and scenes. Join us for a week of art and adventure, where every felt piece tells a tale!
Details
- Age: 5 - 7
- Dates: Monday, August 5 - Thursday, August 8
- Time: 9 a.m. - noon
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Maria Carter holds a BA in art education and a BFA in 3D-design from Old Dominion University. She has taught art to all grade levels from Pre-K through 12th grade. Currently, Maria is an art educator in York County Public Schools where she teaches ceramics, 3D-design and AP 3-D design portfolio. Outside of the classroom, Maria cherishes time with her family and friends.Inspired Landscapes
Description
In this imaginative watercolor and mixed-media class, participants will use inspiration from the works of folk artists in the creation of a symbolic landscape. Painting and mixed-media techniques, experimental processes, and color theory will guide students through the creation of a truly unique artwork.Details
- Age: 11-14
- Dates: Monday, July 29 - Thursday, August 1
- Time: 9 a.m. - noon
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Alexis Walker graduated from the Governor’s School for the Arts and is currently an undergraduate student at Virginia Tech, majoring in graphic design and minoring in advertising and marketing. Alexis enjoys sharing her passion for the fine arts with kids!Mastering the Canvas Oil Painting Techniques
Description
Learn the secrets of oil painting in this technical painting class! Whether you're a novice or an aspiring artist, participants will learn essential techniques, brushwork, and color theory through hands-on guidance. Join us for a week of oil painting where creativity and technical skill meet.Details
- Age: 11-14
- Dates: Monday, August 12 - Thursday, August 15
- Time: 9 a.m. - noon
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Brooke Fujiwara, from Ashburn, VA, is currently attending Christopher Newport University, where she majors in studio art with a concentration in 2D/3D media. Additionally, she has been accepted into the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program to become an art teacher upon graduation. Brooke has always had a passion for teaching students and currently works as a substitute teacher in both her hometown and Newport News.Masters Mash Up
Description
Become the master of the masters in this mixed-up mash-up of artists! Campers will explore the works of artists like Georgia O’Keeffe, Claude Monet, and Vincent van Gogh and their masterpieces. Each day will feature a different theme, including landscapes, portraits, still-life, and sculpture, inspiring campers to create their own artwork. By mixing elements from three different artists, they'll craft original masterpieces throughout the week.Details
- Age: 5 - 7
- Dates: Monday, August 12 - Thursday, August 15
- Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Joanna Lucky graduated from Christopher Newport University in 2023 with a B.S. in Psychology and a minor in Studio Art with a concentration in Photography and Video Art. Currently, she is pursuing a graduate degree at William and Mary. Her favorite medium is photography. She also enjoys painting, collage, and other mediums. She's always excited to share her passion for art with children and others.Messy Masterpieces
Description
Join us for a creative journey as we explore the art of crafting masterpieces using nontraditional items! In this camp, participants will wield everyday objects to discover unique techniques in the world of art. Each day promises exciting discoveries and hands-on experiences, transforming ordinary items into extraordinary expressions of creativity.
Details
- Age: 5 - 7
- Dates: Monday, July 29 - Thursday, August 1
- Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Amani Riley is a recent graduate of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. She is an art teacher in the Newport News Public Schools and holds a BA in visual arts. Painting and graphic design are her main interests. Riley is passionate about instilling in young people the value of art in all aspects of life.Needle Felting
Description
Whether a beginner or experienced in fiber art, students in this camp will learn the felting techniques needed to create amazing three-dimensional artworks. They will also have the opportunity to build up layers of fiber to create a 'painting' to go along with their sculpted furry friends or characters. This affordable and versatile craft will captivate students as they fall in love with the process!Details
- Age: 8-10
- Dates: Monday, August 5 - Thursday, August 8
- Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Rhiannen Sears is a graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio, holding a BFA with a concentration in ceramics, and a minor in art history and criticism. She holds a master's degree in art education (MAT) from Christopher Newport University. Rhiannen is a proficient and knowledgeable ceramicist. She has taught many workshops and currently is teaching ceramics at Lafayette High School in Williamsburg.Phenomenal Photography
Description
Adding special effects to your digital photography will give your photographs a whole new twist! Participants in this class will learn about Photoshop and ways to create kaleidoscopes, puzzle making, and more. Participate in a photo scavenger hunt and games. Students will use the CNU light lab, and learn about lighting and composition to create photos that will turn heads every time. Each student will take home several prints of their digital masterpieces.Details
- Age: 8-10
- Dates: Monday, August 5 - Thursday, August 8
- Time: 9 a.m. - noon
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Joanna Lucky graduated from Christopher Newport University in 2023 with a B.S. in Psychology and a minor in Studio Art with a concentration in Photography and Video Art. Currently, she is pursuing a graduate degree at William and Mary. Her favorite medium is photography. She also enjoys painting, collage, and other mediums. She's always excited to share her passion for art with children and others.Pixel Perfect Digital Photography
Description
Adding special effects to your digital photography will give your photographs a whole new twist! Participants in this class will learn about Photoshop and ways to create kaleidoscopes, puzzle making, and more. Participate in a photo scavenger hunt and games. Students will use the CNU light lab, and learn about lighting and composition to create photos that will turn heads every time. Each student will take home several prints of their digital masterpieces.Details
- Age: 11-14
- Dates: Monday, August 5 - Thursday, August 8
- Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Joanna Lucky graduated from Christopher Newport University in 2023 with a B.S. in Psychology and a minor in Studio Art with a concentration in Photography and Video Art. Currently, she is pursuing a graduate degree at William and Mary. Her favorite medium is photography. She also enjoys painting, collage, and other mediums. She's always excited to share her passion for art with children and others.Succulent Sanctuaries
Description
Join us for a week of clay hand-building, where participants will craft beautiful and functional ceramic succulent containers shaped like animals. Using hands-on sculpting techniques, participants will shape their unique vessels to add a creative touch to their homes. Don't miss this opportunity to blend art and gardening!
Details
- Age: 11-14
- Dates: Monday, July 29 - Thursday, August 1
- Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Rhiannen Sears is a graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio, holding a BFA with a concentration in ceramics, and a minor in art history and criticism. She holds a master's degree in art education (MAT) from Christopher Newport University. Rhiannen is a proficient and knowledgeable ceramicist. She has taught many workshops and currently is teaching ceramics at Lafayette High School in Williamsburg.Threaded Tails
Description
Whether you're a pet enthusiast or dream of your ideal animal companion, this camp welcomes everyone. Spend a fun and creative week creating an expressive embroidered pet portrait, including a painted background for an extra creative touch. Participants will learn the essentials of embroidery techniques, mastering stitches like satin stitch, French knots, running stitch, and more. With these foundational skills, participants will bring their portraits to life.
Details
- Age: 11-14
- Dates: Monday, August 12 - Thursday, August 15
- Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Kailin Little, a native of Farmville, has been studying and practicing art from an early age and is currently attending Christopher Newport University, majoring in Studio Art with a concentration in Graphic Design. She has been accepted into the MAT program and plans to become an art teacher following graduation. Kailin has had a passion for children and art and looks forward to a career in art education.
Nylon Marvels
Description
Prepare to sculpt the extraordinary in this camp! Discover a new creative outlet as you craft the coolest sculptures you've ever seen. Campers will turn ordinary materials such as nylon, wood, wire, and paint into extraordinary masterpieces. Create abstract and representational sculptures finished with acrylic paint. Join us for this highly creative sculpture camp!Details
- Age: 8-10
- Dates: Monday, August 12 - Thursday, August 15
- Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- Cost: $160.00
Instructors
Barbara Stephenson is the Education Manager for the Torggler Fine Art Center. With 28 years of experience in the classroom, she has taught as an adjunct professor at Christopher Newport University and high school art. Barbara specializes in drawing and mixed media.
If you have any questions about classes and workshops, please contact Joan Dobson at (757) 594-0800.
All registered participants will receive more information and instructions by email prior to the start of class. We look forward to seeing you at the Torggler very soon!
Important Policies
Wait List
Classes that are full will have a waiting list. You can sign up for the waiting list for a specific class by calling (757) 594-0800.
Cancellation Policy
Unless otherwise stated during the registration process, you must cancel your class reservation at least 14 days in advance to receive a full refund minus a $25 administrative fee. Cancellations received at least seven days before the start of class will receive a 50% refund minus a $25 administrative fee. Cancellations received less than seven days before the start of class are not eligible for a refund. To request a refund, please call the Torggler at (757) 594-0800.
Please note that the cancellation policy may vary for certain workshops. In this case, the cancellation policy will be provided during the registration process.