The Arts Academy at First Christian Church serves to develop the next generation of artists — trained with excellence for the task of ministry. It also serves as an avenue for growing disciples of Jesus Christ and expressing his love for people in our community.
2026 Summer Workshops
Join us for a fun week this summer with the Arts Academy summer workshops for kids!
June 8-11, 2026 (note the various start times)
Art
*** FULL ***
Time: 3-4pm
Number of Students: 10
Ages: 5 - 7 years old
Calling all young creators! In this fun and hands-on class, students will get to explore a world of creativity through a variety of artistic adventures. With age-appropriate activities designed just for them, kids will discover the joy of expressing themselves through visual arts. It's the perfect place to play, learn, and let their imaginations shine!
Art Exploration
*** FULL ***
Time: 3-4pm
Number of Students: 10
Ages: 8 - 10 years old
Get ready to create like a true artist! In this exciting class, students will dive into the world of art by learning essential skills and techniques like color theory, sketching, and design—and that’s just the beginning! With every project, students will explore their creativity and bring home unique, one-of-a-kind masterpieces they’ll be proud to show off!
Stop Motion Movies
*** FULL ***
Time: 3-4pm
Number of Students: 10
Ages: 10 – 12 years old
Bring your imagination to life in our Stop Motion Movie Workshop! Designed for ages 10–12, this hands-on class combines LEGO building, storytelling, and movie-making fun. Students will learn how to turn still images into animated movies using a stop motion app. From planning a story to filming and adding creative details, students will work together to produce mini movies they can be proud of. Whether your child loves LEGOs, animation, or telling stories, this workshop is the perfect place to build, create, and direct their own adventure!
Beginner Woodworking
Time: 3-4pm
Number of Students: 10
Ages: 13 – 18 years old
Get hands-on this summer in our Beginner Woodworking Workshop for ages 12–18! This engaging class introduces students to the fundamentals of woodworking in a safe, creative, and encouraging environment. Participants will learn basic tool skills, measuring techniques, sanding, assembly, and finishing while creating their own take-home projects. Whether they’ve never picked up a hammer before or are eager to build new skills, students will gain confidence, creativity, and craftsmanship as they turn raw materials into something uniquely their own. Perfect for makers, builders, and creative teens who love working with their hands!
Lyrical Dance
Time: 2:30-4pm
Number of Students: 10
Ages: 11 – 18 years old
In this inspiring class, students will learn lyrical dance techniques rooted in graceful movement and expressive storytelling, all with a Christ-centered focus. Dancers will explore how movement can be a powerful form of worship as they learn and rehearse lyrical routines designed to honor and glorify God. Each session builds not just skill and confidence, but also a deeper connection between faith and artistic expression — culminating in powerful worship pieces that bring dance and devotion together.
Intermediate Sewing
Time: 2:30-4pm
Number of Students: 5
Ages: 11 – 18 years old
Take your sewing skills to the next level in our Intermediate Sewing Summer Workshop! Designed for students who already know the basics of sewing, this class helps young creators build confidence while learning more advanced techniques and completing exciting new projects. With plenty of opportunities for creativity and personalization, this workshop is perfect for students ready to expand their sewing abilities and bring their ideas to life in a fun, supportive environment.
Questions? Contact Andrea Grunden at agrunden@firstdecatur.org or (217) 875-3350.