Advanced Painting Summer Program for High School Students
Every artist needs a mentor. Leonardo da Vinci had Andrea del Verrocchio. Pablo Picasso studied with his father. In this program, you will find your own mentors as you explore advanced painting techniques. Study the nuances of composition, color theory, and contemporary design and receive one-on-one guidance from our acclaimed instructors.
What You'll Learn
In this program, you will focus exclusively on painting materials and techniques. Each day, you will spend six hours engaged in advanced, hands-on coursework. Classes will be complemented by lectures and time to create self-directed work. The curriculum includes:
- Painting techniques
- Color theory
- Composition
- Use of water- and oil-based media
- Participation in live figure-painting sessions
- Open studio tutorials
At the end of your session, you will showcase the work you have created in an exhibition.
This program is designed for artists who want to focus on and have experience in painting. If you would like to explore painting at a more fundamental level or would like to discover other arts areas, we recommend the Visual Arts program.
Program Highlights
Exhibition Opportunities
At the end of your session, you'll share your work with friends and family in an exhibition. The exciting opening reception features live music and snacks—the perfect way to celebrate the end of a successful summer at Interlochen.
Dow Center for Visual Arts
During your session, you will learn and create in the Dow Center for Visual Arts, one of the finest facilities dedicated to the study of the visual arts at the high school level. The 36,000 square-foot complex includes separate studios for drawing, painting, metalworking, ceramics, sculpture, photography, printmaking, digital arts, and fibers, as well as a gallery for student, staff, and faculty exhibitions.
Additional Opportunities
If you're interested in applying to visual arts programs at the college/university level, you may also be interested in our one-week Drawing & Painting Intensive and Preparing a Portfolio for College programs. We are also home to the Arts Academy boarding high school, which offers a visual arts program for students in grades 9-12, as well as a post-graduate year.
There are so many opportunities that have come from my experience at Interlochen. My teachers have pushed me to become a better artist. Through the projects we've done and the specific one-on-one discussions about my works, I've learned how to get out of my comfort zone.
Leela, Visual Arts
A way to get new and different ideas
Hear from other Interlochen Arts Camp students and faculty to learn more about the Visual Arts Division.
Dive deeper into Interlochen Arts Camp with a free digital viewbook
In our free informational booklet, you'll learn more about:
- Each of our seven arts areas
- Various programs
- Renowned faculty
- A day in the life of a student
- How to apply and financial aid information
- And more