Idyllwild Arts Summer Program for all Age Groups
by: Georgie Rhein

In the woodland pine setting of Idyllwild, the Idyllwild Arts Summer Program offers intensive arts summer programs for artists of all ages from 5-95, and one-week inclusive programs specifically for families. Just imagine your family vacation in a beautiful forest setting surrounded by art, music and dance. Family Camp is the first week in July, and the total costs for a family of four, including meals, is under $3000.

The Summer Program started in 1950 so it has a long, successful history of helping artists of all ages express themselves in a variety of mediums – photography, drawing, pottery, jewelry, computer animation, dance and theater. For many teens, this unique summer activity began with Family Camp. “Several of our families came together for four or five years, and now the kids are teens so they come for a summer session,” explains Steve Fraider, Director of the Summer Program. Art activities are planned for every age group – the young kids make teddy bears while the grandparents join a writing group. “We have seen several family reunions during Family Camp,” continues Steve. It’s the perfect setting for self-expression, sharing ideas with family members and enjoying the evening entertainment whether it’s an art showing of a guest instructor, or a staff talent show.

Most activities end in the late afternoon so Family Campers enjoy swimming at the campus pool, hiking the surrounding trails or venturing into the Idyllwild village. Idyllwild is one of the “biggest little art towns in America” so we have an abundance of artistic and charming characters!

What could be better than spending your family vacation at a summer arts program in the beautiful San Jacinto Mountains? Visit the website, www.idyllwildarts.org, for more information on the Summer Program which includes Family Camp and intensive arts programs for children, teenagers and adults. Special festivals such as the Native American Arts Program feature leading Indian artists teaching basketweaving, jewelry and flute design. Weeklong workshops in poetry and writing are also included.

In addition to the seven day Idyllwild Arts Family Camp, other programs include weekend workshops of one to four days, plus one and two-week workshops for junior artists or adults. Unforgettable memories for your family vacation, or your childd’s summer camp are available  at the Idyllwild Arts Summer Program. Call 951-659-2171, x2365 or email: summer@idyllwildarts.org for more information. Idyllwild Arts Summer Program, 52500 Temecula Rd., Idyllwild, CA 92549. www.idyllwildarts.org