EDUCATION OVERVIEW

Krasl Art Center education programs are a core aspect of fulfilling KAC’s mission, to “inspire meaningful change and strengthen community through the visual arts.”

WINTER REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

Education programs range from tuition-based studio classes to our free Family Day and Nights, public events, and offsite community partnerships. A common education philosophy unites all of these programs, emphasizing four strategies: “creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment,” “student-centered learning,”  “connecting art to life,” and “process over product.”

All paid programs require participants to fill out our Emergence Contact forms, which can be found here:

Five-day youth art camps are offered in Summer (June-August) and one-day youth camps are offered during winter and spring breaks (as scheduled by St. Joseph Public Schools). Camps are typically held from 9 am – 12 pm and include drawing, painting, clay, and digital media for ages 5 – 7 and 8 – 12.

Studio classes and youth camps are taught by Teaching Artists in three sessions a year, Summer (June-August), Fall (September-December), and Winter (January-March). We are proud to offer scholarships for classes.

One or two-day intensive art workshops are offered in each session for students. Workshops are led by local and visiting artists and are typically focused on intermediate and advanced techniques for ages 14+.

In addition to paid programs, KAC offers free art programs and resources to the community. Family Days and Nights are monthly free artmaking activities the whole family can enjoy, run by Teaching Artists. We just ask that you register in advance so we can plan snacks and materials appropriately.

  • Family Days are the second Saturday of the month at KAC, 11 am – 12:30 pm.
  • Family Days are the second Wednesday of the month at the Benton Harbor Public Library, 5 – 6:30 pm.

We also have a list of at-home art activities that you can access and create at any time by clicking here.

When it comes to finding a reliable essay writer service, make sure to look for one that offers a guarantee of delivery. If you’re pressed for time and have to rush a paper, you’ll likely make some mistakes and end up with a poor grade. Choosing a company that offers a delivery guarantee is a good idea, as they’ll turn your orders into quality papers well before their deadline. This will save you valuable time and ensure you get the best grade possible.

KAC EDUCATION PHILOSOPHY

Education programs range from tuition-based studio classes to free public events and offsite community partnerships. A common education philosophy unites all of these programs, emphasizing four strategies: “creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment,” “student-centered learning,”  “connecting art to life,” and “process over product.”

Inclusive and Supportive Learning Environment

Creativity flourishes in a positive, supportive environment where diverse voices can be expressed and heard. KAC is committed to providing a safe, equitable, friendly, and fun learning experience for every student. Staff, faculty, and docents participate in ongoing cultural competency training.

Student-Centered Learning

Krasl Art Center recognizes that every student has a different set of needs, interests, skills, and learning styles. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, programs are designed to be adaptable and responsive to the situation. Programs provide opportunities for self-expression and storytelling, and students are encouraged to explore ideas from the personal to the political. Student feedback is welcomed and incorporated into program planning.  

Connecting Art to Life

Art has the power to connect people with diverse backgrounds and experiences and spark important conversations. KAC education programs connect people in and beyond the classroom by engaging with art history and contemporary topics, collaborating with local and regional partner organizations, exhibiting student art in the community, and offering cross-curricular learning opportunities.

Process Over Product

The creative process is messy and unpredictable, and that’s what we love about it! Instead of providing a step-by-step formula that leads to a predetermined outcome, Teaching Artists provide guidance and structured exploration through the elements and principles of art. This approach invites students to discover and problem-solve while being challenged with age-appropriate curriculum, grounded in educational best practices.

STUDIO SPACES

Two of KAC’s three floors are dedicated to education through five indoor studio spaces, plus one changing outdoor studio installation.

ADDITIONAL EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS 

As a local non-profit, KAC is committed to providing art resources throughout Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties. We invite you to join our membership and support programs like these collaborative programs.

STAY CONNECTED

Be the first to know about all upcoming education programs when you become a KAC Member by clicking here, or by signing up for bi-weekly email updates here.