Program Overview

Introduction to the Summer Arts and Design Intensive

The UNCG Summer Arts and Design Intensive is a residential program designed for high school students passionate about art. The program offers a week-long exploration of various creative visual art experiences, culminating in a professionally installed exhibition in the Gatewood Gallery.

Program Details

• The program is open to high school students who were in grades 8 through 12 in the 20252026 school year.
• There are 100 spaces available for campers.
• The program allows for the exploration of a variety of creative visual art experiences, including:
  • Drawing
  • Painting
  • Printmaking
  • Sculpture
  • Photography
  • Graphic design
  • Animation
  • Filmmaking

Program Organization and History

• The program is organized by Dr. Maria Lim, Professor of Art Education.
• The camp began in 2014 with two instructors, four classes, and about 15 students.
• By its fifth year, the program had grown to its maximum capacity, with one-third of its students coming from outside of North Carolina.

Program Experience

• Participants work with faculty from the School of Art, art education staff, and visiting artists.
• They engage with the creative community and access extensive professional art resources on campus.
• The program provides valuable professional lessons for art education students, serving as a service-learning course for education interns.

Program Goals

• The primary goal is for students to gain a taste of life on a college campus and understand the purpose of higher education in pursuing a career in art.
• Students are expected to learn skills and techniques, as well as critical thinking and artistic expression.
• The program aims to provide a fun and exciting experience, allowing students to develop their artistic and personal character.

Enrichment Activities

• The program offers enrichment activities, including:
  • Artist talks
  • Visits to art galleries
  • A career seminar on the arts
• Students produce portfolio-quality artwork for a final exhibition in the Gatewood Gallery.

Program Schedule

• The 2026 Summer Arts and Design Intensive runs from July 12th to 17th.
• The application window opens on February 20th.