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OUR MISSION

Fostering creativity is essential to opening the mind to new possibilities and innovation, the incubator and designer of fresh ideas.  The classroom at 103 Walnut St. in Manitou Beach nurtures and sparks that creativity in both the children and adults in our lakes community.​

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OUR BACKGROUND

Summer art camps began in 2018 with 2 one week sessions, each having two age groups of those going into 2-4th grade and 5-7th grade. After 5 years, there are now 5 sessions offered for each of the age divisions) and 5 different teachers. Last summer there were 97 registrations. Students came from all over Michigan, 6 other states, and England.

 

Each student not only does 3-4 pieces of artwork during the one-week session, but then each student selects one piece to be matted, framed and exhibited in the Childrens' Gallery at the Lakeside Cafe.  They hang for 3 months and then each student gets to bring them home to hang and create their own galleries.

Meet the Teaching Team!

Jean Lash

Director

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  • Retired art teacher.

    • Taught for 31 years in the Michigan public school system at Dearborn and Onsted schools.

    • Taught for Adrian College and Siena Heights University.

  • Received the MAEA's award for Secondary Art Teacher of the Year in 2002.

  • Co-founder of the Community Arts of Tecumseh.

  • Managing and teaching summer art camps in the Manitou Beach Village beginning in 2018 until present.

Betty Welsh

  • Retired art teacher.

    • Elementary, middle, and high school art teacher for 31 years.

    • Adjunct faculty at Eastern Michigan University teaching "Art for the elementary teacher " every semester for 24 years.

  • Fine Arts Coordinator for Livonia Public Schools.

  • Bachelors and Masters degrees from Eastern Michigan University.

Jessie LaFountian

  • K-12 Art Educator for 24 years.

  • Taught school art classes, summer school art, and art camps for more than 10 years.

  • Masters degree in Art Education and has +15 after her Masters.

Charla Milks

  • Has a BFA in Art Education (K-12)

  • Hired at Tecumseh Public Schools in 2000 and is presently teaching there.

  • Has been teaching for 23 years.

  • Has a Masters Degree in Education and has +15 after her Masters.

The Organizations Behind Manitou Beach Art Camp

Manitou Beach Creative is part of the Manitou Beach Historic Renovation Society (MBHRS), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded by David Gajda and Jose Malagon.

I would also like to thank all of the generous benefactors, friends, and supporters who have enabled our summer art programs here at Manitou Beach to not only survive, but to grow and thrive over the years! Without this amazing outpouring of community support, the Summer Art Camps simply could not exist. My students, fellow teachers, and I wish to thank you ALL from the bottom of our hearts!

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Kiwanis of Onsted

Kiwanis of Addison

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All are Welcome

Manitou Beach Creative welcomes students from all backgrounds and experiences. We believe that creativity thrives in a diverse and inclusive environment. Our classes are open to everyone regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or any other protected characteristic. 

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We Value:

  • Respect for all individuals and their unique perspectives.

  • A supportive and encouraging learning environment.

  • The freedom to explore and express yourself creatively.

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If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us. 

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