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Summer Art Camp Ages 11-15 

June 2nd-August 15th, 2025, 9:00 am-4:00 pm 

Registration opens April 1st  

Stay tuned for a full list of camp offerings including the schedule coming March 3rd

ABOUT:

During this week, Campers will focus on an array of artistic mediums and create a piece of art in each medium. Lessons include a brief history and examples of famous works in that medium. By the end of the week, campers will have their own mini-portfolio to share with family, friends, and teachers. Each week incorporates a special tour of the museum, guest instructors, artist demonstrations, nature walks, and time in the gardens. No previous art instruction is necessary.

Camp days run from 9 am–4 pm, with lunch and outdoor time (weather permitting) from 12 pm- 1 pm. Please note: Camp ends promptly at 4 pm and aftercare is not available.

Here’s a look at last year’s 2024 Summer Camps:

Public Art: Murals, Graffiti, Land Art
June 17-21, 2024

This week we will journey into the world of public art as we learn about different public art techniques and styles. Students will gain inspiration from well-known street artists and outdoor land artists whose artwork makes a BIG IMPACT. If you have ever been to Norfolk’s NEON district or the ViBe district in Virginia Beach, you have surely seen the beautiful murals that add color to the city. Campers will learn concepts to create their own unique graffiti and outdoor land art. Projects include spray painting and stenciling, chalk drawings, and incorporating found objects from nature. Don’t miss out on all the fun!

Bookmaking
July 8-12, 2024

Artists often use books as a place to store words, sketches, and multimedia elements like collage. This week we will explore different methods of bookmaking as we create our very own unique books. Learn about different types of books including scrolls and pop-up books, and how they have been used throughout history. Through journaling, sketchbook keeping, and storytelling, we have always had a desire to collect, record, and share ideas. This week will be the perfect combination of technical application and creative freedom as we make books.

Magic & Illusion
July 15-19, 2024

This week campers will drop into the magical world of art as we explore fantastical creations. Magic books, mystical wands, and shaman sticks inspired by art history and popular culture are a few of the projects in store. Students will also learn about optical illusions, Op Art and some of the methods artists use to fool the eye (trompe l’oeil). Use your imagination this week as we explore magic and illusion!


Cartooning & Illustration
July 22-26

This exciting week focuses on cartoons and character development while using a variety of art media to bring those characters and their stories to life! Students will design their own cartoon character and render them in ceramics, comic books, old school animations – even key chains and jewelry. Explore graphic design while creating a movie poster, or album cover and mini art journals.

Art Swap! Prints, Posters & More
July 29-August 2, 2024

Printmaking made it possible for everyday people to collect art. Dating all the way back to the Han Dynasty in China, artists would create affordable versions of their artwork to sell at markets. This week we will learn about traditional printmaking methods to create posters and prints and then swap with classmates, bringing home a new collection of art! Campers will put a contemporary spin on traditional methods of printmaking, such as reduction print and stamping. Create a variety of reduction prints to make posters and more!

Introduction to Painting
August 5-9, 2024

This week campers will take a deep dive into all things painting. Gain experience with a variety of paint media including watercolors, acrylic, and oil as we explore different styles of painting. Regarded as one of the oldest art forms, painting is a staple in art education. Students will work with a variety of surfaces, materials, and subject matter as they explore color, technique, and application. This week of camp will provide young artists with a great foundation in fine art!

Cancellation Policy

If Art Camp is canceled by the Hermitage Museum, we will issue a full refund. No refunds will be issued for any reason; however, if your child is unable to attend camp for any reason such as illness, exposure to illness, schedule changes, etc. and the Hermitage Museum & Gardens is given advance notice, the museum will make its best effort to get the spot filled by a camper on the waitlist. If the spot is filled by another camper, a refund will be issued minus a $10 processing fee.

*Important Membership Discount Information

Household PLUS membership is required to take advantage of discounted member pricing for Spring Break and Summer Camp. You can find out more information about our membership levels here. For questions please contact Melissa Ball, Member + Stewardship Manager at mball@thehermitagemuseum.org or 757-901-4082.

Click here for Camp Guidelines and Rules

For questions concerning art camp at the Hermitage, contact Amber Pierce at 757-901-4086 or email apierce@thehermitagemuseum.org