Young People's Studios and High School Studios
Nurture the creative journey.
Help K-8 graders jumpstart their lifelong connection to creativity. With support from professional instructors, these weekend and summer classes can help young people learn to express themselves, think critically, and build confidence through artistic exploration.
High school students can hone their creative voices and prepare to apply to competitive undergraduate art and design programs with dedicated support from MICA faculty. These programs and courses provide a pathway for young artists to explore their creative interests and grow as artists and designers.
High School Studios
Grades 9-12
Painting Our Own Histories
Session 1: June 17 - 28 (AM)
Grades 9-12: How does understanding historical context, traditions, and histories of art contribute to the creation of our personal art? What motivates artists to either adhere to or diverge from established traditions? This course invites students to discover the impact of historical narratives, cultural traditions, and the ever-evolving art world on the creation of meaningful paintings. As students paint from both memory and imagination, students will utilize the expressive mediums of watercolor and acrylic paint to craft artworks imbued with personal significance. Uncover the transformative power of blending tradition and innovation in the pursuit of creating impactful and meaningful paintings.
Class meets: 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. No class June 19.
Cost: $428
Register Today
High School Studios
Grades 9-12
Digital Illustration
Session 1: June 17 - 28 (PM)
Grades 9-12: In this class, students will explore how to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator for a variety of drawings and designs! Students will learn about character development, portraiture, settings and environments, design, and metaphorical approaches to making. Access to the Adobe Creative Suite is included for the duration of this course.
Class meets: 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. No class June 19.
Cost: $428
Register Today
High School Studios
Grades 9-12
Illustration Wet and Dry Media
Session 1: June 17 - 28 (PM)
Grades 9-12: Illustration is everywhere! Come learn the fundamentals of illustrating with wet and dry media, and how to take your hand drawn images through a digital process for print purposes. Young artists begin by responding to single image prompts related to newly acquired media techniques with emphasis on composition of content, then finish with designing their own narrative to illustrate!
Class meets: 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. No class June 19.
Cost: $428
Register Today
High School Studios
Grades 9-12
Drawing from Observation
Session 2: July 1 - 12 (AM)
Grades 9-12: This course is designed to help students refine their skills in observational drawing and painting, making purposeful choices about lines, form, and color. Students will experiment with materials as they learn to make decisive lines and cohesive color palettes and apply both realistic and expressive colors to their pieces. Art exemplars will be used to emphasize the incredible diversity of styles and expressiveness that can be achieved with color, line, and texture.
Class meets: 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. No class July 4.
Cost: $428
Register Today
High School Studios
Grades 9-12
Reimagining Ceramics: Culture and Clay
Session 2: July 1 - 12 (PM)
Grades 9-12: Inspired by the work of Roberto Lugo, in this course, students will learn the functional purpose of ceramics and create meaningful ceramic objects such as pots, plates and bowls. Throughout the course, students will gain proficiency in using a variety of hand building techniques and explore different methods of glazing. Students will learn how ceramics have been used in different cultures, explore personal artifacts, and use both historical and contemporary references as inspiration for their work.
Class meets: 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. No class July 4
Cost: $428
Register Today
High School Studios
Grades 9-12
Character Design
Session 2: July 1 - 12 (AM)
Grades 9-12: In this course, students will delve into the fascinating world of character design, exploring not only the physical aspects but also delving into the rich realm of personalities, facial expressions, and living environments. Beginning with a discussion about their favorite games and a detailed analysis of the characters within, students will gain insights into the intricate details that bring characters to life. Focused on figure drawing, individuality, and personality traits, through a series of dynamic drawing exercises, students will develop the skills needed to accurately portray their characters’ unique qualities. Students will learn to craft a visual narrative by considering the living environments of their This holistic approach to character design will empower students to create well-rounded and compelling characters that extend beyond mere physical appearance.
Class meets: 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. No class July 4.
Cost: $428
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High School Studios
Grades 9-12
Graphic Design
Session 2: July 1 - 12 (PM)
Grades 9-12 : In this course students will learn the basic fundamentals of designing a successful character. After discussing their favorite games, and analyzing its characters, students will learn how to draw the figure and engage in various drawing exercises in order to accurately execute their characters.
Class meets: 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. No class July 4.
Cost: $428
Register Today
High School Studios
Grades 9-12
Portfolio Development for College Entry
Session 3: July 15 - 19 (All day)
Grades 9-12 This intense studio class begins with a review of students’ current art portfolios, with discussion about what a college ready portfolio might look like. Students keep a reflective journal and sketchbook as they identify areas to strengthen in their artwork. Working independently with the instructor, students then develop a plan for tailored art problems intended to highlight skills and flesh out their portfolios for presentation. This course is especially designed for students who are looking to ease their transition into art school.
Class meets: 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Cost: $475
Register Now
High School Studios
Grades 9-12
Digital Illustration
Session 3: July 15 - 19 (All day)
Grades 9-12: In this class, students will explore how to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator for a variety of drawings and designs! Students will learn about character development, portraiture, settings and environments, design, and metaphorical approaches to making. Access to the Adobe Creative Suite is included for the duration of this course.
Class meets: 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Cost: $475
Register Now
High School Studios
Grades 9-12
Building Your Portfolio
Session 4: July 22 - 26 (All day)
Grades 9-12: In this all-encompassing course, students will delve into the world of Portfolio Development, Critique Skills, and Photo Documentation. Aspiring artists will learn to compile and critically analyze their work, honing their ability to convey cohesive messages. With a focus on constructive criticism, students will grasp the art of giving and receiving valuable feedback. Additionally, students will gain hands-on experience in taking professional photos of their artwork. This course is your key to refining your artistic abilities and showcasing your creations with confidence.
Class meets: 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Cost: $475
Register Today
High School Studios
Grades 9-12
Exploring Sequential Art: Crafting Stories and Characters
Session 4: July 22 - 26 (All day)
Grades 9-12: In this course, students will analyze their favorite comic strips and graphic novels, drawing inspiration from a variety of sequential artists who work with different materials. Starting with the development of compelling storylines, students will then create unique characters and hone their skills in engaging readers through sequential illustrations, storytelling, and imagery. Throughout the course, they will enhance their abilities in both observational drawing and imaginative character and story creation, fostering creativity and self-expression.
Class meets: 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Cost: $475
Register Today
What our families
are saying
“The program is great because it nurtures hidden talent as well as providing a space for them to explore new ideas and techniques!” – YPS Parent, Summer 2023
“I feel this is the greatest opportunity for any student thinking about art seriously.” – HSS Parent, Fall 2022
“The YPS program was excellent for my child and they had lot’s of fun being included and create new artwork.” – YPS Parent, Fall 2022
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FAQs
Are payment plans available?
Open Studies offers payment plans for all offerings! Enroll now and pay later with equal payment installments. For more details and to begin the process, please contact Open Studies Registration Staff at openstudies@mica.edu.
Where will the classes be held?
In-person YPS and HSS classes will be held on campus in MICAs Fox Building.
I’m interested in taking a class in person. What are the COVID-related guidelines?
We are in Operational Mode 5 to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable educational experience with MICA. See Operational Mode 5 webpage for more information; this info will also be included in the Getting Started Guide with your registration confirmation email. Masks are encouraged, but optional.
How will I access the software needed for the class?
Once enrolled, you will receive a MICA email with a link to your Getting Started Guide. Please check the email that you used to register for the class.
To note: The email you receive once you are enrolled will also include instructions to create your MICA credentials as well as login instructions to access tools and software necessary for your class such as: Canvas, Adobe Creative Suite, Zoom, and Google Drive.
I’m enrolled in an in-person class. What should I bring? Are materials included?
We recommend that students wear a smock or clothes that can get messy! Materials will be provided for in person learning. Students should also bring a personal water bottle.
I’m not sure if this class is for me. How can I talk to someone?
Contact the Office of Open Studies at (410) 225-2219 or openstudies@mica.edu
Are there scholarships available for youth and teens?
The scholarship deadline for Young People’s Studios and High School Studios are:
- January 1 for Spring classes
- April 1 for Summer Art Camp
- September 1 for Fall classes
Please visit mica.edu/ypsscholarship for more information and to submit your application.
Questions?
Contact Us.
Office of Open Studies
Baltimore, MD 21217
openstudies@mica.edu
