This nonprofit art studio offers camps, classes, and workshops for nearly all ages (pre-K through adult) and abilities. Sign up for classes in painting, drawing, pottery, wheel-throwing, or mosaics. New teen programming includes DIY decorating, chess, and cake decorating. Girl and Boy Scouts can earn an art badge or pin during special Scout workshops June 13–15. 13379 Olive, 636-627-7735.
Looking for a fun, vibrant space where families can go to get inspired and create? Look no further than Yucandu, an art studio that opened nearly 15 years ago in Webster Groves and caters to all skill levels for ages 5 and up. “You can actually see people’s eyes light up when they step into the studio,” says owner Kim Harris. “Families of all ages enjoy the creativity and togetherness.” Drop in for Open Studio, which includes use of tools, space, assistance/inspiration, and teaching, as well as clean-up for a $4 per hour or $12 per day fee. The costs of such materials as mixed media, painting, mosaic, wood-working, collage, and artsy additions are separate. Need something more structured? Workshops and classes are also available. On May 12, students in kindergarten through fifth grade can make and wrap gifts during a Mother’s Day Gift Workshop ($45, 9:30 a.m.–noon). Yucandu also offers art-inspired summer camp options from May 29–August 2 for first through eighth graders (prices vary). Yucandu Art Studio, 20 Allen, 314-963-4400.
Paint St. Louis Plein Air Event
On May 20, during the Academy of Nature and Wildlife Arts’ annual fundraiser, Paint St. Louis Plein Air Event, families with children ages 3 and up are invited to explore various art forms innature through plein air painting, dance, theater, music, voice, writing, and pottery/sculpture. Learn cellphone photography in nature with Missouri Master Naturalists, or try hand-thrown pottery with Krueger Pottery artists. Grab lunch or a snack at one of the food trucks onsite. $5, Noon–4 p.m. Queeny Park.
Keep the conversation going by participating in Academy of Nature and Wildlife Arts’ Hidden Gems, a free scavenger hunt of natural events happening in St. Louis County parks. The online calendar has weekly projects posted, such as “Yellow Lady Slippers Bloom” or “Lightning Bugs Appear,” meant to inspire artists of all ages. You can also follow the academy’s Facebook page for alerts. Then submit your creation (photo, sketch, etc.) for prizes and the chance to be featured in an October exhibition.
Intricate and sophisticated coloring books are having a moment (and show no sign of abating) with adults and kids alike. St. Louis Splendor: An Adult Coloring Book by Jo Ann Kargus (Reedy Press) features some of our city’s top historical spots and hip hangouts. Make some room on the refrigerator.
