Creative Arts Eliot 2022 Highlights

Creative Arts Eliot in the summer of ’22, this year ably managed by Deans Drew Betts and Lauralee McLeod, continued to be an island of tranquility, creativity and regeneration.  As in years past, a few August campers stayed over and were pleasantly surprised by the relaxed and rejuvenating atmosphere.

Many activities are the same as other camps – ingathering, worship, meals, boating, swimming, social hour and evening presentations.  There are also some big differences.  There is no theme speaker and there are no small group meetings.  Instead, small groups are the primary experience as they meet each morning with their artistic leaders to explore working in the art mediums they have chosen.  A good way to convey the breadth of activity is to take a look at the accompanying page of presenters that led groups at Creative Arts Eliot this year.

Organized afternoon activities, while existing, are fewer than at other camps.  This is primarily because so many Arts Eliot campers spend their afternoons continuing to work on the art projects they had put away for lunch.

We have fewer young people than the other camps, but there is no necessary reason for that as art projects appeal to young and old alike. With plans to offer a workshop in 2023 for elementary-aged children, there are opportunities galore for all ages.   

We also have the distinction of being the only camp with two completed programs under our belt since the pandemic shutdown.  So call it what you like – steady, reliable, sedate, relaxing, undramatic, nourishing, casual, stimulating, satisfying – know that if you come to Creative Arts Eliot, you will build relationships and make art.

Rick Pope, board representative