Theme: Architecture & Design

Build Big. Dream Bigger.

This week, our young visionaries will step into the shoes of a lead architect! We’ll start by exploring a world of wonders—from soaring skyscrapers to cozy cottages—to see how different styles shape the way we live. Then, it’s time to head to the "construction site." Using cardboard, recycled treasures, and heaps of imagination, students will draft, design, and build their own custom structures. Whether it’s a futuristic eco-city or a whimsical castle, we’re turning "trash" into architectural triumphs!

This weekly summer program is all about playful art making with a focus on the process and experience of creating! Classes are sold in 3-day sessions.

Meet Tracy

Tracy Smedes-Hepler is a former teacher and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education with 13 years experience as a preschool teacher at the Leelanau Children’s Center. She has been a mother and nanny for over 22 years! Her love of the arts and creativity inspired her to launch an arts exploration business, Tearwater T, which aims to provide art programming to local children. After a successful first year, she is excited to begin her second year engaging with the youth in her community this school year as a creativity mentor and process-arts teacher at the OAB.