Larry DeGraff teaches students using demonstrations, examples and hands-on exercises.
The Bradley-DeShon Education Center officially opened in June of 2024 and has proven itself to be an integral part of the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art. The museum’s mission statement includes “education, creating unique experiences, and nurturing regional artists,” all of which the new Education Center facilitates. The three-story building is located next to the museum in the historic carriage house, allowing students to
gain inspiration directly from the museum’s collection just a short stroll down the sidewalk.
Even with several months without classes due to the move from the museum’s basement to the two newly renovated classrooms, there were more students than ever before in 2024. The classes are taught by museum staff and working artists, some of which have had their own exhibitions at the Albrecht-Kemper. Renowned artists are also hired from across the country to teach multiple-day workshops. These classes range from traditional painting to creating dolls from clay and wire armatures, flower arranging, beginners drawing and more. Contact the museum if you are interested in teaching an art class.
The kids take over the Education Center for Summer Art Camp including four weeks of morning and afternoon sessions. The theme this year is nature, and the kids will visit the museum and take inspiration from the upcoming summer exhibition with Rachelle Gardner-Roe. Until then, weekly Kids Media classes are held during the school year with art projects directly inspired by the museum’s permanent collection.
Students come from all walks of life, from kids with the dream of becoming an artist to retirees looking for a new hobby, beginners and professionals alike looking to advance their skills. What connects them all is their love of art. The Albrecht-Kemper has been developing the arts community in St. Joseph, Missouri, and its surrounding areas by offering new opportunities for people to come together in support of the arts. Students sometimes come from hours away to take classes, impressed by the space and quality of classes being offered. Many students find themselves coming back multiple times and even become involved in the museum in other ways such as becoming a member or volunteering. One student stated, “I loved the laid back, friendly atmosphere. It felt very welcoming and beginner friendly. I would definitely do this again in the future!”
Interested in joining us? A list of classes can be found at www.Albrecht-Kemper.org.
Financial assistance provided by the St. Joseph, Missouri Visitors Bureau.
–Alex Asher, Director of Education
