Discovering U

In this camp, campers will learn how to create, write, and illustrate their very own zines – small, handmade booklets that they will fill with their own stories and artwork. This camp will focus on self-expression and creativity while covering topics such as their emotions, goals, dreams and more. Campers will explore these through collage, drawing, and simple writing techniques to bring their unique visions to life. This camp focuses on collaboration and sharing stories with others!

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Expressing, feeling, learning, creating! In this self-expressive camp, youth will learn how to communicate their feelings through painting, drawing, and group project activities. Using positive psychology tools to activate self-compassion, creativity and communication, youth will bring what’s on the “inside” to life on paper! Youth will take home their personal collection of artful creations and a group art project to share with family and friends!

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Are you feeling ‘crafty’ and inspired to learn a lifelong skill? In this new camp, campers will learn all about crochet and the wonderful artistry of the skill. Learn basic stitches and techniques and use these skills to crochet beautiful, handmade items. Let your creativity flourish and find a new love for crochet! 

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Design Lab is a hands-on, creativity-fueled camp where campers explore collage, pattern design, and a variety of printmaking techniques. Campers will carve their own stamps, create cyanotype prints, experiment with tie-dye, and transform fabric into bold, colorful works of art. Each day blends fashion, design, and imaginative making—perfect for young creators with big ideas!

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Do you have a hearty imagination and a strong spirit for adventure? The classic game of high fantasy, magic, monsters, fae, dungeons and dragons teaches fierce problem solving, fervent teamwork, and ferocious creativity that cannot be matched. Learn the game at a beginner level, create your own character, and play in an adventure designed to be both an introduction and a challenge to your skills.

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Do you love clay? Then prepare to get messy, creative and muddy! In this fun, hands-on camp you will make animals, ornaments, pinch pots and even famous characters with all sorts of clay and dough, from Air-Dry Clay to Model Magic. Slab, pinch, hand build, and sculpt your way through this creative camp that features an exciting combination of projects. 

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Campers can take risks at their own pace while learning to “get out of their heads” - and have fun doing it! You don’t need to be funny, clever or theatrical; just say yes to what’s in front of you and interesting things will happen. Taught by a COMPAS teaching artist, each session includes warm-ups, exercises and games, and practice!

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Have you ever wanted to make your own jewelry? In this new camp, you will create your choice of pendants, necklaces, keychains, earrings and more using professional techniques like casting, soldering and enameling. We will explore different metals and learn correct use of tools. We will cover jewelry studio safety and basic shop protocols to ensure we can all focus on our creations in a healthy environment. Bring your ideas and an interest in experimenting with new methods to manifest them. We will make at least one completed piece each day! An additional waiver for Chicago Avenue Fire Arts Center is required with registration. 

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Design and build a sculpture of a robot with moving parts using materials recycled from home. What do you want your robot to do for you? Learn about simple machines, the wheel and axle and the lever, and add them to your creation. Taught by a COMPAS teaching artist, we will explore electricity, circuits and motors to make things move!

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During this new camp, campers will write, build, and create a show in a week. Taught by a COMPAS teaching artist, come ready for creative and collaborative fun!

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In this new interdisciplinary camp, campers will create their own mosaics and write poems, draw pictures, or make nature art for mosaic imagery, and can perform or display their work at a showcase. Taught by a COMPAS teaching artist, campers will experience the full process: design, create, and exhibit.

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From contemporary movement to improvisation, join us in exploring dance styles that focus on expression and creativity! We will move our bodies all week through interactive dance games and activities that aid you in creating your own piece of work! At the end of the week, you will be able to demonstrate your amazing talent at our dance showcase.

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Mythical Art is where imagination takes flight! Campers will dream up magical lands, build their own creatures, craft enchanted crowns and wands, and bring epic stories to life through art. Each day inspires creativity, storytelling, and a sense of wonder.

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Unleash your creativity in this fun-filled week of nature-inspired art! Campers will explore leaf rubbings, flower pressing, collaging, and cyanotype printing, blending art with the beauty of the natural world. Through hands-on art projects and outdoor activities, campers will observe, create, and connect with nature in new ways.

*No camp on June 19th due to the Juneteenth Holiday

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Run into the world of Pokémon and learn about the vast universe that Ash and his friends have traveled through for three decades. Then, collect your mana and deploy your creatures as you learn to play Magic: The Gathering, all while developing social, critical and creative thinking skills! You will spend the week honing your mathematical strategy and reading skills, while expanding your vocabulary and making new friends as you travel through the worlds of Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering. No previous experience needed.

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Discover the magic of puppetry! Brought to you by Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre, this camp will focus on creating shadow puppets and telling stories. Campers will design their puppet and make friends as they work together to create and perform short stories.

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Do you have a future reporter in the making? At the YP Press, campers will produce their own newspaper that is 100 percent camper written! They will work together to brainstorm story ideas, talk to people at YP and write their own stories. Campers will learn the work of different journalists, and even have the opportunity to tour a TV Studio!

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This camp is an exciting adventure in creativity, movement and mindfulness! Every day is packed with activities, fun games, and imaginative projects promoting physical activity and emotional well-being. Campers will practice yoga poses while engaging in lively group games that foster teamwork and cooperation. Through creative activities like art projects and reflective journaling, campers will spark their imagination and encourage self-care in a supportive environment.

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