From Navajo weavings to Chinese ceramics, patterns are everywhere. Campers explore the galleries to discover how artists use patterns across cultures, then head to the workshop to design and create their own patterned artwork.
Denver Art Museum is a arts & creative summer camp in Denver, CO. Tuition starts at $400 and goes up to $450 per week.
Sessions (80)
Art Around the World - Week 1 (Ages 5-6)
Kick off your artistic journey by exploring the vibrant colors and patterns of African art. Campers will learn about traditional masks and textiles, then create their own colorful masks using mixed media. This week emphasizes creativity and cultural appreciation through hands-on projects inspired by African traditions.
Art and Nature - Week 1 (Ages 5-6)
In Week 1, campers will dive into the vibrant world of nature-inspired art. Exploring the Denver Art Museum galleries, children will discover how natural materials and environmental themes influence artists. Activities include leaf printing, creating textured collages with found objects, and painting landscapes inspired by local flora. By week's end, campers will proudly bring home their own unique nature-themed artwork.
Color Pop! - Week 1 (Ages 5-6)
Dive into the vibrant world of color this week as we explore how artists use hues to express emotions and ideas. Campers will visit the galleries to observe color in famous artworks, then create their own colorful masterpieces in the workshop. Activities include mixing paints to discover new shades and a fun rainbow-themed craft to spark imagination.
Creature Creations - Week 1 (Ages 5-6)
Kick off the summer with an exciting safari adventure at the Denver Art Museum! Campers will explore the museum's animal collection, focusing on lions, tigers, and bears. Afterward, they’ll create unique art projects inspired by these majestic creatures using various materials in the workshop. This week encourages imagination, observation, and hands-on creativity in a fun and nurturing environment.
Mixed Media Mayhem - Week 1 (Ages 5-6)
Kick off the summer with a vibrant exploration of textures and colors! Campers will experiment with paint, paper, and fabric to create unique mixed media art inspired by the museum’s diverse collections. This week focuses on combining materials to tell stories through art, encouraging creativity and hands-on discovery.
Patterns and Prints - Week 1 (Ages 5-6)
In Week 1, campers dive into the world of patterns by exploring Navajo weavings and their intricate designs. They visit the galleries to observe how these patterns tell stories and represent cultural heritage. In the workshop, children create their own weaving-inspired artwork using colorful threads and simple looms, fostering creativity and fine motor skills.
Sculpt This, Sculpt That - Week 1 (Ages 5-6)
Kick off the summer with a hands-on exploration of clay vessels inspired by ancient pottery in the museum galleries. Campers will learn basic sculpting techniques to create their own small pots and bowls. Each day includes guided gallery tours to spark creativity and workshop time to bring ideas to life. By the end of the week, campers will have a collection of unique clay pieces to proudly share with family and friends.
The ABCs of Art - Week 1 (Ages 5-6)
In Week 1, our youngest artists dive into the basics of art by exploring textures and shapes through fun games and interactive stories. Campers will create tactile art projects that help them understand different materials and how they feel. This week emphasizes sensory experiences and encourages creativity through hands-on activities designed just for ages 5-6.
Art Around the World - Week 2 (Ages 5-6)
This week, campers explore the intricate art of Asia, focusing on Japanese origami and Chinese brush painting. Children will create delicate paper sculptures and learn brush techniques to paint cherry blossoms and landscapes. The hands-on activities foster fine motor skills and cultural understanding.
Art and Nature - Week 2 (Ages 5-6)
During Week 2, campers will explore the textures and colors of the natural world through mixed media art projects. Inspired by the museum's exhibits, children will experiment with natural dyes, clay modeling, and nature journaling. The week emphasizes observation and creativity, encouraging campers to see art in everyday outdoor elements and express their discoveries through hands-on projects.
Color Pop! - Week 2 (Ages 5-6)
This week, campers will journey through the rainbow rabbit hole, exploring how colors can tell stories and evoke feelings. Through hands-on projects, they will experiment with warm and cool colors to create mood paintings and participate in group mural-making inspired by the museum’s exhibits. Expect lots of creativity and colorful fun!
Creature Creations - Week 2 (Ages 5-6)
This week, campers continue their exploration of the animal kingdom through the Denver Art Museum’s collection. They will focus on observing animal textures and patterns, translating these into creative art pieces like textured paintings and sculptures. The camp fosters fine motor skills and artistic expression while encouraging curiosity about wildlife.
Mixed Media Mayhem - Week 2 (Ages 5-6)
This week, campers dive deeper into the world of mixed media by exploring layering techniques using paint, fabric, and recycled materials. Inspired by the museum’s eclectic collections, children will create textured collages and playful art pieces that celebrate imagination and experimentation.
Patterns and Prints - Week 2 (Ages 5-6)
During Week 2, campers explore the delicate patterns found in Chinese ceramics. They tour the galleries to see how artists use shapes and colors to create beautiful repeating designs. In the workshop, children experiment with painting their own ceramic-inspired patterns on paper plates, learning about symmetry and color blending.
Sculpt This, Sculpt That - Week 2 (Ages 5-6)
This week focuses on abstract sculptures inspired by modern artists featured in the museum. Campers will experiment with shapes, colors, and textures using clay and mixed media materials. Daily gallery visits will encourage campers to observe and discuss artistic styles before creating their own imaginative sculptures. The week culminates in a mini art show for families to celebrate the campers’ creativity.
The ABCs of Art - Week 2 (Ages 5-6)
Week 2 focuses on exploring lines and colors through storytelling and creative art projects. Campers will learn how different lines can express emotions and movement, and experiment with mixing colors to create vibrant artworks. This session encourages young artists to express themselves while developing fine motor skills in a playful environment.
Art Around the World - Week 3 (Ages 5-6)
Dive into the colorful world of Latin American art this week! Campers will explore vibrant folk art traditions from Mexico and Brazil, creating bright paper mâché sculptures and festive banners. The week celebrates joyful expression and introduces campers to storytelling through art.
Art and Nature - Week 3 (Ages 5-6)
Week 3 invites campers to discover the relationship between animals and art. Through gallery visits and creative workshops, children will create animal masks, nature-inspired sculptures, and storyboards featuring local wildlife. The week encourages imagination and environmental awareness, helping campers connect with nature through artistic expression.
Color Pop! - Week 3 (Ages 5-6)
Explore the magic of color blending and layering this week! Campers will learn how artists use different techniques to create depth and texture with color. Activities include creating layered watercolor paintings, experimenting with pastels, and a visit to the museum’s interactive color exhibits to inspire their own art projects.
Creature Creations - Week 3 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will embark on a creative journey inspired by the Denver Art Museum’s collection of animal portraits. This week emphasizes color exploration and mixed media techniques as campers create vibrant artworks reflecting the personalities of their favorite animals. Activities include painting, collage, and storytelling to bring their creations to life.
Mixed Media Mayhem - Week 3 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will explore the vibrant world of color mixing and pattern making using diverse materials such as paint, paper, and fabric scraps. Inspired by the museum’s collections, children will create colorful artworks that emphasize creativity, texture, and personal expression.
Patterns and Prints - Week 3 (Ages 5-6)
In Week 3, campers discover patterns in nature by observing artworks inspired by flowers, leaves, and animals. They explore the galleries to see how artists capture natural patterns and textures. In the workshop, children create their own nature-inspired prints using stamping and stenciling techniques, encouraging observation and artistic expression.
Sculpt This, Sculpt That - Week 3 (Ages 5-6)
Explore the world of natural forms this week by creating sculptures inspired by plants, animals, and landscapes seen in the museum’s exhibits. Campers will use clay and natural materials to craft textured, organic shapes. Storytelling and imaginative play will be integrated to deepen the connection between art and nature. The week ends with a group gallery walk where campers share their favorite creations.
The ABCs of Art - Week 3 (Ages 5-6)
During Week 3, campers explore shapes and patterns through interactive games and art projects. They will learn to recognize and create repeating patterns and use shapes to build imaginative compositions. This week nurtures observation skills and creativity, helping young artists see the world through an artistic lens.
Art Around the World - Week 4 (Ages 5-6)
Explore the rich traditions of Indigenous Australian art this week. Campers will learn about dot painting techniques and dreamtime stories, then create their own vibrant canvases inspired by the outback. This session nurtures storytelling and pattern recognition through creative expression.
Art and Nature - Week 4 (Ages 5-6)
In Week 4, campers will focus on the colors and patterns found in nature. Activities include watercolor painting inspired by flowers and trees, creating prints using natural objects, and exploring symmetry in leaves and insects. The week blends art techniques with environmental education, fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty around us.
Color Pop! - Week 4 (Ages 5-6)
This week, campers will explore the emotional power of color through storytelling and art. They will create expressive paintings that reflect different feelings using color symbolism, and participate in group activities that encourage sharing ideas about color and mood. The week culminates in a colorful art show to celebrate their creations.
Creature Creations - Week 4 (Ages 5-6)
This week’s theme centers on animal habitats and environments as seen through the Denver Art Museum’s exhibits. Campers will create dioramas and 3D art projects that showcase where their favorite animals live. Through hands-on activities, they’ll learn about ecosystems while expressing their creativity with natural materials and art supplies.
Mixed Media Mayhem - Week 4 (Ages 5-6)
This week focuses on three-dimensional art! Campers will experiment with fabric, paper, and found objects to create sculptures and tactile artworks inspired by the museum’s diverse collections. Emphasis is on hands-on exploration and imaginative play.
Patterns and Prints - Week 4 (Ages 5-6)
Week 4 focuses on geometric patterns found in art from around the world. Campers explore gallery exhibits featuring tessellations and repeating shapes. In the workshop, children use paper folding and cutting to create their own geometric pattern art, developing spatial awareness and design skills.
Sculpt This, Sculpt That - Week 4 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will dive into the art of figurative sculpture this week, inspired by human forms and characters displayed in the museum. Using clay and simple armature techniques, campers will create playful figures and expressive faces. Daily discussions about emotions and storytelling through art will enrich the creative process. The week concludes with a storytelling circle where campers present their sculptures and share their stories.
The ABCs of Art - Week 4 (Ages 5-6)
In Week 4, campers focus on exploring different art materials and textures. Through hands-on projects, they will experiment with rough, smooth, soft, and hard textures, learning how to incorporate these into their artwork. Storytelling and sensory activities complement the creative process, making art accessible and fun for young learners.
Art Around the World - Week 5 (Ages 5-6)
This week, campers journey to Europe to explore famous art movements like Impressionism and Cubism. They will experiment with brush strokes and shapes, creating their own colorful paintings inspired by Monet and Picasso. The focus is on exploring new styles and expressing personal creativity.
Art and Nature - Week 5 (Ages 5-6)
Week 5 centers on storytelling through nature art. Campers will create illustrated nature journals, design story quilts inspired by natural scenes, and participate in group mural projects. The week encourages narrative creativity and teamwork, allowing children to express their personal connections to the environment.
Color Pop! - Week 5 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will investigate how light and shadow affect color perception this week. Through fun experiments with prisms and colored lights, they will see how colors change and interact. Art projects include creating shadow puppets and colorful light collages inspired by their discoveries in the museum’s galleries.
Creature Creations - Week 5 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will explore animal movement and behavior through art this week. Inspired by the Denver Art Museum’s collection, they will create kinetic sculptures and paintings that capture the energy and motion of animals. This session encourages experimentation with different art forms and materials to bring their furry friends to life.
Mixed Media Mayhem - Week 5 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will explore storytelling through mixed media art this week, combining paint, paper, and fabric to create narrative-inspired pieces. Drawing inspiration from the museum’s collections, children will learn to express ideas and emotions through layered materials and creative techniques.
Patterns and Prints - Week 5 (Ages 5-6)
Campers in Week 5 explore cultural patterns from African textiles. They visit the galleries to see bold colors and symbolic designs. In the workshop, children create their own fabric-inspired artwork using stamping and fabric markers, learning about cultural storytelling through patterns.
Sculpt This, Sculpt That - Week 5 (Ages 5-6)
This week highlights the use of texture and pattern in sculpture. Campers will explore different tools and techniques to add surface details to their clay creations, inspired by decorative objects in the museum. Activities include stamping, carving, and layering materials to create tactile art pieces. The week wraps up with a collaborative mural of textured sculptures displayed in the workshop.
The ABCs of Art - Week 5 (Ages 5-6)
Week 5 invites campers to explore the world of lines and shapes through creative drawing and collage projects. They will learn how lines can create movement and emotion, and use shapes to build simple scenes. This session encourages imagination and self-expression while reinforcing foundational art concepts.
Art Around the World - Week 6 (Ages 5-6)
Discover the art of the Middle East this week, focusing on geometric patterns and calligraphy. Campers will create beautiful mosaics and practice simple Arabic calligraphy, learning about the cultural significance behind these art forms. The week encourages attention to detail and cultural respect.
Art and Nature - Week 6 (Ages 5-6)
During Week 6, campers will explore natural patterns and shapes through sculpture and 3D art. Using recycled materials and natural objects, children will build models of plants, insects, and landscapes. The week emphasizes hands-on creativity and environmental stewardship, inspiring campers to think about sustainability in art.
Color Pop! - Week 6 (Ages 5-6)
This week focuses on patterns and textures created with color. Campers will explore how artists use repeated shapes and color contrasts to create dynamic artworks. Projects include making colorful patterned prints and textured collages using various materials, inspired by the museum’s diverse collections.
Creature Creations - Week 6 (Ages 5-6)
This week focuses on animal patterns and camouflage. Campers will study how animals blend into their environments through the museum’s exhibits and then create their own camouflaged art pieces using paint, fabric, and natural elements. The session promotes observation skills and creative problem-solving.
Mixed Media Mayhem - Week 6 (Ages 5-6)
This week highlights nature-inspired mixed media art. Campers will use natural materials alongside paint, paper, and fabric to create textured artworks that celebrate the outdoors. Activities focus on observation, creativity, and combining diverse materials for unique effects.
Patterns and Prints - Week 6 (Ages 5-6)
In Week 6, campers examine patterns in modern and contemporary art. They explore how artists use repetition and abstraction to create dynamic works. In the workshop, children experiment with mixed media to design their own abstract patterned pieces, encouraging imaginative thinking and self-expression.
Sculpt This, Sculpt That - Week 6 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will explore the art of balance and form by creating mobiles and hanging sculptures. Inspired by kinetic art in the museum, they will learn how to construct lightweight clay and mixed media pieces that move gently with air currents. Daily challenges encourage problem-solving and creativity. The week ends with a display of mobiles hung throughout the workshop space.
The ABCs of Art - Week 6 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will explore colors and textures in Week 6 by mixing paints and creating textured art pieces using natural and recycled materials. This week emphasizes experimentation and discovery, encouraging children to observe the world around them and translate those observations into colorful artworks.
Art Around the World - Week 7 (Ages 5-6)
This week, campers explore Native American art traditions, focusing on pottery, weaving, and storytelling. Children will create simple woven bracelets and decorate clay pots while learning about the stories behind these crafts. The session fosters respect for indigenous cultures and hands-on creativity.
Art and Nature - Week 7 (Ages 5-6)
Week 7 invites campers to experiment with natural pigments and eco-friendly art supplies. Activities include making leaf rubbings, creating nature-inspired prints, and designing wearable art from natural materials. The week focuses on creativity and environmental responsibility, encouraging campers to appreciate the resources nature provides for artistic expression.
Color Pop! - Week 7 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will explore the cultural meanings of color around the world this week. Through stories, art projects, and gallery visits, they will learn how different cultures use color to celebrate traditions and express identity. Projects include creating colorful masks and banners inspired by global art forms.
Creature Creations - Week 7 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will dive into the world of animal masks and costumes inspired by the Denver Art Museum’s collection. They will design and create wearable art using paper mache, paint, and embellishments. This week encourages imaginative play and artistic expression while learning about animal features and symbolism.
Mixed Media Mayhem - Week 7 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will explore abstract art through mixed media, experimenting with shapes, colors, and textures using paint, paper, and fabric. Inspired by the museum’s modern art collections, children will create bold, expressive pieces that celebrate creativity and experimentation.
Patterns and Prints - Week 7 (Ages 5-6)
Week 7 invites campers to explore patterns in architecture and design. They tour exhibits showcasing decorative motifs and structural patterns. In the workshop, children build simple 3D models using patterned paper and blocks, learning about balance, repetition, and design principles.
Sculpt This, Sculpt That - Week 7 (Ages 5-6)
This week focuses on storytelling through sculpture. Campers will create characters and scenes using clay, inspired by stories and myths featured in the museum’s collections. Activities include sketching storyboards and building multi-part sculptures that tell a narrative. The week concludes with a storytelling performance where campers share their sculptures and stories with peers.
The ABCs of Art - Week 7 (Ages 5-6)
In Week 7, campers focus on storytelling through art by creating picture books and illustrated stories. They will combine drawing, painting, and collage to bring their stories to life, developing both artistic skills and narrative thinking. This session nurtures imagination and communication in a supportive environment.
Art Around the World - Week 8 (Ages 5-6)
Travel to the Pacific Islands through art this week! Campers will explore traditional Polynesian tattoo designs and tapa cloth patterns, creating their own prints and designs on fabric. The week highlights cultural symbolism and encourages campers to express themselves through pattern and design.
Art and Nature - Week 8 (Ages 5-6)
In Week 8, campers will explore the interplay of light and shadow in nature through drawing and photography. Guided gallery visits will inspire activities such as creating silhouette art, shadow puppets, and nature photo collages. This week encourages observation skills and creative experimentation with natural light effects.
Color Pop! - Week 8 (Ages 5-6)
This week, campers will experiment with abstract art and color expression. They will use bold colors and shapes to create dynamic paintings and sculptures, learning how artists break traditional rules to express unique ideas. Activities include freeform painting sessions and collaborative group sculptures.
Creature Creations - Week 8 (Ages 5-6)
This week, campers explore storytelling through animal art. Using inspiration from the Denver Art Museum’s exhibits, they will create storyboards and illustrated books featuring their favorite animals. Activities include drawing, painting, and collaborative storytelling to build literacy and creativity.
Mixed Media Mayhem - Week 8 (Ages 5-6)
This week focuses on pattern and rhythm in art. Campers will create mixed media artworks using repeated shapes and textures with paint, paper, and fabric. Inspired by patterns found in the museum’s collections, children will learn to build visual harmony and movement in their creations.
Patterns and Prints - Week 8 (Ages 5-6)
Campers in Week 8 explore patterns in textiles from South America. They observe vibrant colors and symbolic designs in the galleries. In the workshop, children create their own patterned fabric art using weaving and dyeing techniques, fostering cultural appreciation and hands-on creativity.
Sculpt This, Sculpt That - Week 8 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will explore cultural art traditions by creating sculptures inspired by indigenous and global art forms displayed in the museum. Using clay and natural pigments, they will craft masks, totems, and symbolic objects. The week includes storytelling about cultural meanings and hands-on activities that celebrate diversity in art. A group exhibition will showcase the campers’ culturally inspired sculptures.
The ABCs of Art - Week 8 (Ages 5-6)
Week 8 invites campers to explore shapes and symmetry through fun art projects and games. They will create symmetrical paintings and collages, learning about balance and design in art. This session encourages observation and fine motor skills while fostering creativity in a playful setting.
Art Around the World - Week 9 (Ages 5-6)
Explore the art of the Arctic and Subarctic regions this week. Campers will learn about Inuit carvings and traditional clothing decorations, then create their own sculptures using clay and natural materials. The session emphasizes creativity inspired by nature and cultural heritage.
Art and Nature - Week 9 (Ages 5-6)
Week 9 focuses on water and its role in nature and art. Campers will create watercolor paintings inspired by rivers, lakes, and rain, as well as experiment with water-based printmaking techniques. The week highlights the fluidity and movement of water, encouraging campers to express these qualities in their artwork.
Color Pop! - Week 9 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will explore nature’s colors this week by observing and creating art inspired by plants, animals, and landscapes. Activities include nature walks, color matching games, and creating natural dye paintings. The week encourages curiosity about the environment and how color connects us to the natural world.
Creature Creations - Week 9 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will study animal anatomy and form through observation and hands-on art projects. Inspired by the Denver Art Museum’s collection, they will create clay sculptures and drawings that highlight animal shapes and structures. This week nurtures attention to detail and artistic skills in a supportive setting.
Mixed Media Mayhem - Week 9 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will explore storytelling through texture and color, creating mixed media art inspired by cultural themes from the museum’s collections. Using paint, paper, and fabric, children will build layered artworks that express ideas and emotions in new and exciting ways.
Patterns and Prints - Week 9 (Ages 5-6)
In Week 9, campers focus on patterns in nature and the environment. They explore artworks inspired by water, rocks, and landscapes. In the workshop, children create textured pattern art using natural materials like leaves and sand, encouraging sensory exploration and environmental awareness.
Sculpt This, Sculpt That - Week 9 (Ages 5-6)
This week emphasizes collaborative sculpture projects. Campers will work together to build large-scale clay installations inspired by themes from the museum’s exhibits. Focus will be on teamwork, planning, and creative problem-solving. Each day includes group brainstorming sessions and hands-on building time. The week ends with a community art reveal where campers and families celebrate their joint creations.
The ABCs of Art - Week 9 (Ages 5-6)
Campers will explore lines and textures in Week 9 by creating mixed media art using crayons, paint, and textured materials. They will learn how different lines can create patterns and how textures add depth to artwork. This week fosters creativity and sensory exploration in a supportive environment.
Art Around the World - Week 10 (Ages 5-6)
Celebrate the grand finale of your art passport journey by revisiting favorite projects and cultures from the summer. Campers will create a personal art portfolio showcasing their best work and participate in a mini art show for family and friends. This week focuses on reflection, creativity, and community.
Art and Nature - Week 10 (Ages 5-6)
In the final week, campers will celebrate their summer of nature-inspired art by creating a personal portfolio and group exhibition. Activities include finishing favorite projects, preparing artwork for display, and sharing stories about their creative journey. This week emphasizes reflection, pride in accomplishments, and community celebration.
Color Pop! - Week 10 (Ages 5-6)
In the final week, campers will celebrate their colorful journey by creating a personal portfolio of their favorite artworks made throughout the summer. They will also prepare for a special showcase where family and friends can view their vibrant creations. The week focuses on reflection, creativity, and joyful expression.
Creature Creations - Week 10 (Ages 5-6)
In the final week, campers will celebrate their summer of animal-inspired art with a gallery-style showcase. They will complete final projects that combine techniques learned throughout the camp, including painting, sculpture, and mixed media. Families are invited to view the creative achievements and join in the fun.
Mixed Media Mayhem - Week 10 (Ages 5-6)
In the final week, campers will create a mixed media portfolio showcasing their favorite techniques and projects from the summer. Using paint, paper, fabric, and found materials, children will reflect on their artistic journey and create a special take-home collection inspired by the museum’s diverse collections.
Patterns and Prints - Week 10 (Ages 5-6)
In the final week, campers celebrate all the patterns they've discovered by creating a collaborative mural. They revisit favorite artworks and patterns from previous weeks, then design and paint a large-scale patterned artwork together, fostering teamwork and artistic confidence.
Sculpt This, Sculpt That - Week 10 (Ages 5-6)
In the final week, campers will create mixed media sculptures combining clay with found objects and recycled materials inspired by contemporary art in the museum. The focus will be on creativity, experimentation, and personal expression. Campers will reflect on their summer projects and prepare a portfolio to share with family. The week ends with a festive art celebration showcasing all campers’ work.
The ABCs of Art - Week 10 (Ages 5-6)
In the final week, campers celebrate their artistic journey by creating a personal art portfolio showcasing their favorite projects from the summer. They will also participate in group art activities and a mini art show for friends and family. This session emphasizes reflection, pride, and community through art.
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Programs offered
Location
100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does Denver Art Museum cost?
- Denver Art Museum costs $400–$450 per week.
- Where is Denver Art Museum located?
- Denver Art Museum is located at 100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204 in Denver, CO.
Data compiled for Summer 2026. Always verify details directly with the camp provider before registering.