Arts Council OKC is partnering with Oklahoma libraries and recreation centers to bring free arts programming to kids this summer.
Neighborhood Arts, a partnership between ACOKC and the Metropolitan Library System, brings free, daily performances to libraries across Oklahoma County. Ten groups, such as the Sugar Free Allstars, OKC Improv, and Lucas Ross, will perform at 19 locations. Throughout June and July, you can enjoy a variety of musical styles and performance arts, such as rock music, puppet shows, hip-hop demonstrations, and opera. Every week a new artist will be featured at each library, so kids can come back all summer long!
“We love partnering with the Metropolitan Library every summer to bring interactive, diverse performances to families across Oklahoma County,” said All Access Arts Director Jill Coker. “The libraries offer a variety of free programming to kids throughout the year and we’re happy to be a part of their well-rounded curriculum.”
Arts in the Park, a partnership between ACOKC and the Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department, brings free visual art classes to recreation centers across Oklahoma City. These classes are on a set schedule each week, taking place between 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. each Tuesday – Thursday.
“Art class is a great way for kids to continue learning over the summer break and begin the next school year with fresh ideas,” Coker said. “With Arts in the Park, kids only need to travel as far as their local recreation center to participate in a range of art lessons that change each week. We can’t wait to see what art they create!”
Summer art programs and camps often are structured differently than traditional school classes, allowing more space for children to express themselves while learning new concepts and developing skills that ultimately enhance learning in the classroom.
“Through our great partnerships with schools in Oklahoma City, we’re able to offer wonderful Arts in Schools programs to kids throughout the school year, but summer is a crucial time for art education” said Arts Council OKC Executive Director Peter Dolese. “These programs offer a wonderful opportunity to keep kids engaged in hands-on, creative activities while they’re away from the classroom.”
You can find the full schedule for Neighborhood Arts performers and locations HERE.
You can find the full schedule for Arts in the Park HERE.
Arts Council Oklahoma City is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to bringing the arts and the community together through free or low-cost cultural events and a variety of arts outreach activities that impact underserved populations. Each year, Arts Council events, programs, and services reach nearly one million Oklahoma City residents and visitors. For more information, call 405-270-4848 or visit artscouncilokc.com
