best visual-arts programs in Charlotte, NC

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

At Central Piedmont, we’re committed to helping our students develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the world today. We believe that every student should have the opportunity to unlock their potential and discover their own unique purpose. We strive to give our students the tools and resources to help them reach their goals and redefine their idea of what a college experience should be. Through our innovative approach to education, we strive to empower our students and help them reach their highest potential. Our diverse faculty and staff provide students with an affordable, hands-on education that will help them gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the real world. By providing our students with the tools to succeed, we hope to make a lasting impact on their lives and on the community. We are proud to be creating a new generation of thinkers and innovators who will shape the future of our community and beyond.

At the Mint Museum, leadership, integrity, inclusiveness, knowledge, stewardship, and innovation are all core values that shape the museum's mission to collect, exhibit, conserve, research, publish, interpret, and share art and design from around the world. By fostering an understanding and respect for diverse peoples and cultures, the Mint Museum seeks to inspire and transform the lives of visitors and create a more empathetic world. Through these commitments, the Mint Museum hopes to create meaningful, lifelong relationships with art and design.

At Art-Kiddo, we are dedicated to helping children discover the world of art through Spanish immersion and bilingual instruction. Our sessions provide a creative and meaningful environment for children to learn and explore. We believe that art is an essential part of a child's development, and our sessions are tailored to enhance social/emotional skills, sensory regulation, motor skills, behavior, and play/leisure skills. Our program is designed to create meaningful experiences and nature/social connections for children. We use a variety of activities to engage children, including Spanish language instruction, art projects, music, and creative play. These activities are designed to help children develop their language and communication skills, as well as foster their creativity. By providing children with the necessary tools to explore art through second-language immersion, we strive to create an environment that is inviting and supportive to each and every child.

At Noah’s Art, we strive to give children an enriching and process-oriented art experience. Our instructors guide children through the creative process, teaching them how to use a variety of art supplies and tools. With our support, children develop their own creative talents and improve their confidence. Noah’s Art has a mission to empower children to express their creativity without fear of failure. We want to help children recognize and value their differences, while also helping them to discover new things about themselves. By providing a safe and supportive environment, children are able to explore the boundaries of their creativity and find success. At Noah’s Art, we are dedicated to helping children grow in self-confidence and understanding. Through our unique art experience, we hope to give children the opportunity to express themselves in new and exciting ways. By fostering a community of acceptance and appreciation, we ensure that each child is able to reach their full potential.

Kids ages 2-18 can explore their creative side at the Ballantyne Arts Center! The Ballantyne Preschool Academy helps young children discover the world around them through art, music, and creative play. Children of all ages can find something that sparks their interest at the Ballantyne Arts Center. From a comprehensive preschool program to professional dance, theatre, and visual art classes, the center provides an array of engaging activities for kids. With classes tailored for each age group, the Ballantyne Arts Center is the perfect place to nurture your child’s creative development. The Ballantyne Arts Center is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for kids to explore their talents and passions. Whether they’re developing their motor skills in the preschool program, perfecting their theatre skills, or creating a masterpiece in the visual arts classes, the Ballantyne Arts Center has something for every child!

Are you looking for a fun and creative way to spend an evening with friends? Paint Craze is the perfect solution! Gather your friends and enjoy a night of painting, drinking, and mingling. Whether you’re looking to have a good time or tap into your creative side, Paint Craze is the perfect way to do just that. At Paint Craze, you can let your creative juices flow while sipping on your favorite beverage. You’ll have access to a variety of supplies and experienced artists to help guide you through the process. Afterward, you can mingle with your friends and admire your work. Paint Craze offers an enjoyable and memorable way to spend an evening with friends. So gather your gang and get ready to have some fun! Let your creative side shine while you paint, drink, and mingle the night away.

At Small Hands Big Art, we believe that art is more than just a nice picture. It's a process that encourages kids to experiment, problem-solve, and take risks in a safe and supportive environment. Our Pottery and Art classes, camps, parties & workshops help to foster creative expression and build self-confidence in children of all ages. We are proud to provide a unique learning experience for your little artists in our South Charlotte and Fort Mill studios. Our award-winning children's art programs are rooted in fine art principles and fused with contemporary trends, allowing each child to express themselves in a creative and individual way. From toddlers to teens, and adults too, Small Hands Big Art is the perfect place to nurture your child's creative spirit.

At Arts Delivered, we understand that life can be busy. That is why we offer an exciting visual arts studio experience that can come to you or you can come to us! With winter arts class, adults ceramics/pottery, girls scout ceramics class, pre-K glaze class and Saturday family clay class, we have something for everyone. Let us bring the art studio to you and enjoy the convenience of creating art without ever leaving your home.

Our process-oriented approach to art allows each individual child to develop their unique talents and abilities. Our instructors lead the children through the process of creating art, while also giving instruction in the use of art supplies, tools, and methods. We want the children to be able to take ownership of their own artwork, and understand that the process is just as important as the final product. We strive to have each child leave our classes with a newfound appreciation for their own creativity and confidence in their potential.