San José Museum of Art

See what you think.

Kids Summer Art Camp

  • A young boy creates art at a table, surrounded by colorful painted boxes and framed children's artwork on the walls.
     
  • Two women smile as they observe children's artwork displayed on a table, with more artwork on the walls behind them.
     
  • In a room filled with children’s art, a young Asian girl places something on a table. In the background is an adult wearing a smock.
     
  • A smiling boy playfully holds a paper tube to a woman's eye while an older man watches in amusement.

    Photos by Frederick Liang. 

    Join SJMA for a week of fun, creativity, and artistic growth this summer

    Campers get behind-the-scenes access to exhibitions, experiment with the artistic process, and show off their own work in a student exhibition. SJMA’s teaching artists offer in-depth art experiences inspired by current exhibitions. Kids learn how to look at, talk about, and create art.

    Scholarships

    Thank you for your interest in our Kids Summer Art Camp 2025 scholarship program. The application period has ended, and all available scholarships have been awarded.

    Scholarships for next summer will open on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. To be eligible, campers must be between the ages of 6–14, reside within San José city limits, attend a Title I school, and demonstrate financial need.

    Scholarships cover full camp tuition, all art supplies, and a camp t-shirt. Please note that availability is limited and spots fill quickly—early application is strongly encouraged.

    Stay tuned for updates and be sure to apply as soon as applications open! 

    Who

    For children ages 6–14. Camps are divided into age groups 6–8, 9–11, and specialized teen camps for 12–14.

    Each camper receives individual artistic support, encouragement, and creative challenges tailored to their learning style and skill level.

    What

    Join SJMA for a summer art camp that pairs creative exploration of art materials and processes led by our experienced gallery teachers and studio art educators with enhanced creative growth opportunities.

    In addition to exploring a variety of artistic media and techniques, campers will enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes access and learn how exhibitions come to life through interactive presentations by SJMA’s professional installation team and hands-on experience curating their own art exhibition. 

    Curriculum for ages 6–8 and 9–11 repeats weekly. Teen camps offer something new each week, with unique projects and activities designed to keep older campers inspired all summer long! 

    Art Camp Exhibition

    Each week, families, caregivers, and friends join us for an exhibition reception that features campers’ artwork. This special event offers a chance to recognize and celebrate every participant’s artistic accomplishments and creative growth. 

    When

    Weekly camps occur Monday, June 8–Friday, July 24, 2026. (no camp the week of June 29). Check our FAQs for details on when you’ll receive your camper welcome email and first-day information. 

    All camps run 9am–3pm, Monday–Friday.

    Registration

    General registration begins Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

    Early registration for SJMA members begins Wednesday, February 4, 2026, for those at the Family level or above. 

    Member Discount

    SJMA members at the Family level or above are eligible for a 10% discount on camp registration. To receive the discount, your membership must be active and you must sign in before registering. Not a SJMA member? Join now!

    Camp Options

    • Week 1: Monday, June 8 – Friday, June 12
    • Week 2: Monday, June 15 – Friday, June 19
    • Week 3: Monday, June 22 – Friday, June 26
    • Week 4: Monday, July 6 – Friday, July 10
    • Week 5: Monday, July 13 – Friday, July 17
    • Week 6: Monday, July 20 – Friday, July 24

    Camp Fees

    • $500 per week
    • Museum members at the Family level or above: $50 discount
    • Camp fees include art materials and supplies

    Refund Policy

    Fees are refundable if requested before Monday, June 1 ($35 processing fee applies). No refunds will be given starting Monday, June 1, 2026. Please contact us at education@sjmusart.org.

    The San José Museum of Art has the right to cancel the camp, in which case fees are 100% refundable. Registration is not transferable. 

    Art Materials

    SJMA provides all art materials needed to participate in our camps.

    Please visit the FAQs page for more details or contact us at education@sjmusart.org.