The Owensboro Museum of Fine Art will host Folk Art Frenzy, a free weeklong summer art camp June 2-6 that introduces children to the color, creativity, and cultural heritage of American folk art.
Each day of the camp will focus on a unique art-making experience inspired by the work of Appalachian folk artists:
- Monday, June 2 — “Shadow Stories”
Campers will build their own shadow boxes using cardboard, paint, and foam, taking inspiration from Alan “Haint” Bradley’s vibrant, three-dimensional works. - Tuesday, June 3 — “Memory Paintings”
Inspired by Helen LaFrance Orr’s nostalgic rural landscapes, participants will create colorful paintings based on their own childhood memories or imagined countryside scenes. - Wednesday, June 4 — “Critter Carvings”
In a workshop influenced by Kentucky folk artist Minnie Adkins, children will sculpt whimsical woodland creatures and turn them into wearable art like necklaces or keepsakes. - Thursday, June 5 — “Crazy Canes”
Young artists will design imaginative canes adorned with feathers, eyeballs, and other quirky details — each one telling a story through found objects and playful design. - Friday, June 6 — “Folk Art Free-For-All”
Campers will revisit their favorite projects from the week, choosing to recreate shadow boxes, critters, paintings, or canes for a final day of artistic exploration.
Reservations are required and can be made by contacting the museum at 270-685-3181 or [email protected].
To make the camp accessible to more families, each child may be registered for up to two classes. Sessions are open to children ages 6 to 15 and last two hours, with morning (9-11 a.m.) and afternoon (1-3 p.m.) options available.
Folk Art Frenzy is one of several free seasonal camps offered by OMFA. The museum’s second summer art camp will be held July 28–August 1, focusing on its permanent collection through hands-on projects and gallery activities.
The Owensboro Museum of Fine Art is free and open to the public. Regular hours are Tuesday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, visit www.omfa.us.