Submitted by Susan Slapin

I so enjoy the depth of the Camp Orkila program. The whole person and their relationship to learning and to nature is how I approach teaching, and apparently a primary aspect of Camp Orkila’s program.

For some, the elements of art was expressed as familiar and welcome turf; and for others, an avenue to broaden and stretch, in ways not yet approached. Even in that regard, new to the elements of art, there are many things to learn about the process, materials, tools and techniques, for its own sake; and also to extract and apply to other areas of one’s life experience, including an added ability to begin to understand and teach some of the basics, to staff’s upcoming Campers. This vibrant group gives more hope for a brighter future, they worked as individuals and engaged in discourse as a group, around the table. As an artist, studio work is a solo journey: rich and fulfilling. That said, I so welcomed meeting these young adults and sharing the search and discovery of the elements of art, along with an inquiry into the individual journey.

Art is a big topic and can be addressed through a number of lenses. I don’t take it lightly! This was a great experience. Thank you Camp Orkila, everyone was so great to work with!