Explore creative opportunities this summer with San Juan Island Parks and Recreation

May 18, 2025 1:30 am

By Declan O’Malley, Journal contributor

This summer, the San Juan Island community can dive into a variety of exciting arts workshops offered by the San Juan Island Park & Recreation District. These fresh, creative programs cater to all ages and are designed to inspire artistic expression in a relaxed and supportive environment.

“We are so excited about our arts workshop offerings this summer. Some are just for adults, but many are all ages or 11+ if accompanied by a registered adult. This allows our creative teens to take classes alongside the adults in their lives, making it a fun experience for families to create together,” said Jen Henry, the recreation coordinator and events and communications specialist with the district. “Almost all of the arts programs are new, and they’re all beginner-friendly, so people can try out new mediums and techniques in a fun and stress-free way.”

The summer arts offerings include a wide variety of classes, such as Digital Photography, where participants can enhance their photography skills; Adult Paint Nights, perfect for creating a masterpiece in a social, laid-back environment; and Summer Masterpieces – All Ages Paint Nights, which provide a fun and interactive way for families and friends to create together. Other highlights include Nature Journaling, Silver Clay Jewelry, and the Craft and Create series, featuring classes like Tie-dye, Intro to Embroidery, Tea Cup Planters, Intro to Mosaics, Intro to Macrame, Terrariums and Needle Felting. For personal expression, there’s Express & Create: Art Journal, and unique classes like Intro to Letterboxing and Scraps & Stories: A Junk Journal.

Additionally, Art in the Park with Alchemy Art Center will host outdoor workshops such as Ceramic Seed Pods (June 1), Meditative Illustration and Handbuilding (June 15), Zero Waste Tote Bags (June 29), Hectographs and Anthotypes (July 6), Upcycled Assemblage (July 20), Clay Still-Life (Aug. 3), and Indigo Dye Day (Aug. 31). These outdoor classes combine art with nature, offering a unique and inspiring experience for participants of all skill levels.

Teens can also look forward to creative workshops, including the Island Kids Maker Fair, the After-School Paint Club and the Illustration Club, providing a great space to explore their artistic talents. The Teen Art Bites series includes workshops such as Cell Phone Photography with Chase (June 27), Acrylic Painting with Randi (July 11), Floating Ink Suminagashi Prints with Jen (July 25), Action Photography with Chase (Aug. 1), Chalk/Decorative Lettering with Randi (Aug. 8), and Skateboard Deck Design with Cozette (Aug. 22).

For younger artists, there are Pre-School Paint Adventures and Little Picassos in the Park, a weekly program throughout the summer that allows preschoolers to explore their creativity in the outdoors.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills or try something new, there’s a creative outlet for everyone this summer. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy these fun, hands-on art experiences and make memories with family and friends.