Summer Camp at the NCMA
Registration begins February 5 for members, February 26 for nonmembers.
Enhanced by exploration of the Museum’s galleries and Park, camps include drawing, painting, mixed media and sculpture; nature walks; storytelling; and creative movement. Each camp’s offerings are unique, so children may enjoy more than one session. And new this year—the Museum is offering workshops for teens and preteens.
Summer Camp for Kids
Five-day sessions for children ages 6–8 and 9–12
Monday–Friday, 9 am–4:30 pm
$220 Members (per camp)
$250 Nonmembers (per camp)
8 am Early morning drop-off ($30 per camp)
5:30 pm Late afternoon pickup ($30 per camp)
For more information or to register, call the Museum Box Office, (919) 715-5923, or register online.
June 11–15
“Adventure Seekers”
Let your imagination run wild as you discover the beauty of nature and the Museum galleries while creating your own adventurous art.
June 18–22
“Time Travelers”
Travel through space and time to learn about art from other periods and places as you design your own timeless works.
June 25–29
“A Natural Fit”
See the sights this summer from landscapes in the galleries and Museum Park, and create your own panoramic works inspired by nature.
July 9–13
“Egyptian Wonder”
Find inspiration for your own works of art as you uncover the wonders of Ancient Egypt.
July 16–20
“Dream Catchers”
Let your dreams lead you through the galleries and Museum Park as you unlock the door to your most creative self.
July 23– 27 Ages 9-12 Sold Out
“Movers and Shakers”
Study how artists capture movement in painting and sculpture, and make your own moving works of art.
July 30–August 3 Ages 6-8 Sold Out
“Trash to Treasure”
Uncover how artists create beautiful works of art using found objects, and generate your own treasures using everyday things.
August 6–10
“Once Upon a Time . . .”
Discover how artists capture stories with their art while creating art your own that tells a story.
August 13–17
“Ancient Explorations”
Adventures in the galleries and expeditions in the Museum Park take you back to Greek and Roman times.
August 20–24
“Me, Myself, and I”
Focus on self-portrait painting as you explore the many faces of the Museum galleries.
Summer Workshops for Teens and Preteens NEW
Five-day sessions for ages 11–13 or 14–18
Monday–Friday, mornings or afternoons
$110 Members
$125 Nonmembers
For more information or to register, call the Museum Box Office, (919) 715-5923, or register online.
“I’ve Been Framed!”
June 25–29 (ages 11–13)
Monday–Friday, 9 am–noon
Learn the art of sequential storytelling as you express aspects of your identity through comics and animation.
“Short Filmmaking: Heroes and Villains”
June 25–29 (ages 14–18)
Monday–Friday, 1–4 pm
With the NCMA galleries and Museum Park as a backdrop, make your own short film with a focus on storytelling and character development. Open to all skill levels. Equipment provided.
“Painter’s Laboratory”
August 6–10 (ages 14–18)
Monday–Friday, 9 am–noon
Experiment with a range of media from oils to spray paint, and investigate the ingredients of your favorite masterpieces in this hands-on workshop with the help of the Conservation Department.
“Street Art 101”
August 6–10 (ages 14–18)
Monday–Friday, 1–4 pm
Discover the history and various forms of street art while creating temporary murals and impromptu installations at the Museum.
Summer Camp FAQs
You accept children ages 6-12. Will 6- and 12-year-olds be placed together?
Campers are grouped into two camps with 15 campers in each—one camp with 6–8-year-olds and one camp of 9–12-year-olds. Gallery, Park, and studio activities are age-appropriate.
Do you make exceptions for mature 5-year-olds?
No. Your child must be 6 years old at the start of camp.
What does my child need to bring?
Your child will need to bring a lunch, two snacks, and a drink. You may want to also send a refillable water bottle, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, bug spray, and a bag or tote to carry these items.
What does my child need to wear to camp?
Campers should wear comfortable and layered clothing that can get dirty or soiled with art materials. Please be aware that some art materials, such as acrylic paint, can be difficult to remove from clothing. Campers should also wear closed-toed shoes.
What kinds of art will my child see?
Campers will view works of art from the Museum’s permanent collection every day. Camp instructors choose the works of art based on the camp theme, and discussions are age appropriate.
What kinds of art will my child make?
Campers will have a chance to use a variety of materials while at camp, including media for drawing, painting, and sculpting. Projects and creative expression opportunities are determined by professional art instructors based on camp themes and inspiration from the permanent collection and Museum Park.
Will my child go outside?
Campers will hike the Museum Park trails during instructor-led walks. Weather permitting, campers will also spend the lunch hour outside, with an opportunity for organized or free play.
How does the registration process work?
Camps are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. If there are cancellations, campers from the waiting list are contacted. Confirmation will be sent by mail shortly after all registration information has been received.