POAC launches teen art program

SANDPOINT — A new program is aimed at nurturing the artistic talents of the community's middle and high school students.

Responding to a need for specialized art programs, the Pend Oreille Arts Council has partnered with Kaniksu Folk School to launch a new initiative to address that need. The first session of Expression will start in early March.

"Numerous families in our community have expressed keen interest in art classes and workshops that go beyond traditional educational settings, aiming to nurture their children’s artistic talents and complement their school curriculum," POAC program director Amy Stephensen said. "As an artist and certified visual arts teacher in Idaho, I've had numerous conversations with parents who are eager to provide additional opportunities for their child's artistic growth."

POAC and land trust officials said the Expressions program is designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and a supportive learning environment. The program features weekly sessions that will teach new skills and offer constructive feedback.

There will be several six-week sessions offered each semester, each accommodating a maximum of 10 students. Every session will explore a different theme, such as drawing basics, exploring color, hand-building with clay and more. The weekly classes, which will be taught by trained instructors, will last 60-90 minutes.

The upcoming winter session will delve into diverse artistic aspects, including drawing from observation, value, perspective, proportions and foreshortening, life drawing and self-portrait.

“With a commitment to making art education accessible, POAC is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of talented artists in the community," Tone Stolz, POAC executive director, said. "This program not only perfectly aligns with our mission but also fills us with tremendous excitement."

The winter session will run from March 7 to April 18, with classes held at 1:30 p.m. 

For further details and enrollment, please visit POAC's website at ArtinSandpoint.org, contact us at 208-263-6139, or visit the POAC Gallery/Studio, 313 N. Second Ave., Suite B, Sandpoint.