Emily Katebini

The first two days of camp are at Hallam Lake and the final three days of the week are at Anderson Ranch. In partnership with the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies, we explore the exciting intersection of nature, art, and kite building! We begin the week by learning about the science of flight, bird habitats, migration, and feather patterns, with a special focus on regional birds of prey and other local species. Students make detailed artistic studies using watercolor, colored pencils, and Sharpies to capture the colors, shapes, and textures of the birds they observe. As the week progresses, we transform these studies into one-of-a-kind handmade kites. Using inspiration from feather patterns and modern kite-building materials and techniques, students design kites that are as functional as they are beautiful. The workshop culminates in a kite-flying showcase, where everyone tests their creations and watches their art soar through the sky!

We celebrate bravery as young artists discover how powerful it can be to speak up, stand out, and care deeply. Each day, we explore the stories of historical figures who changed the world—not through conflict, but through courage, creativity, and compassion. We meet heroes like Joan of Arc, a young girl who led with strength and belief in herself; Harriet Tubman, who guided others to freedom in the darkness; and Guy Fawkes, who shows that people have always questioned unfair rules. We keep stories simple, visuals vibrant, and conversations open-ended, inviting children to connect with big ideas in ways that make sense for them. Through storytelling, movement, and hands-on art-making, children express their own bold ideas using a wide variety of materials, discovering that bravery isn’t just in history—it’s in all of us.

Young artists discover the power of wondering, investigating, and imagining the world in new ways. Each day, we meet a real-life scientist who followed their curiosity to make amazing discoveries. We learn about Rosalind Franklin, who used light to explore the building blocks of life; George Washington Carver, who saw beauty and possibility in every plant; and Mae Jemison, who dreamed of the stars—and reached them. We keep stories simple, visuals vibrant, and conversations open-ended, inviting children to see science as a playful, creative adventure. Through storytelling, hands-on experiments, and art-making, children become the scientists of their own world—asking questions, making discoveries, and sharing what they see.