SRU TO HOST SUMMER VISUAL ARTS ACADEMY FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – Now in its 14^th year, the SummerVisualArtsAcademy at SlipperyRockUniversity gives high school students interested in visual arts, jazz, dance, theater and creative writing the opportunity to spend 12 days on campus. They also will receive two college credits, transferable to the university of their choice.

Classes will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. July 7-18. Cost is $399 per student, which includes tuition, room and board. Classes are open all students going into grades 9 through 12.

Participants will engage in a variety of supporting interdisciplinary experiences using the latest computer communication technology, such as Web-site construction, desktop publishing and digital art animation.

The blocks:

• Creative Writing. This is an intensive writers’ workshop where participants work individually and in small groups. Students will see their work published in print and online in The Pomegranate, the anthology of the academy.

• Dance. Participants develop knowledge of movement technique, improvisation and composition. Students will also participate in collaborative activities with the visual arts, jazz, theatre and creative writing students.

• Jazz. This program introduces students to jazz education, jazz performance, theory, improvisation and music technology. Students will study with master jazz artists as well as peers. They will perform in small and large jazz ensembles.

• Theater. Participants experience hands-on theater. Students will have the opportunity to explore the enjoyment of theater, not only through observing it but by creating it. Workshops will focus on various areas of theater such as acting, designing and directing.

• Visual Arts. Participants study with master artists and teachers as well as talented peers in a wide range of activities designed to be challenging and rewarding. Course offerings including drawing and design, digital imaging, ceramics, interactive multimedia, video production, textile and fibers and photography.

Taught by SRU faculty, this year’s program will weave together the idea of cultural roots with innovative experiences in the arts. SRU’s Dr. Joseph McCarren, a professor of English, is academy director.

For an application, call McCarren at 724-738-2868, or e-mail joseph.mccarren@sru.edu. Or go to http://www.sru.edu/pages/4233.asp. Applications will be accepted through June 30.

Sponsors are SRU, The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, the Office of Social Equity, Midwestern Intermediate Unit IV, Regional Summer Schools of Excellence and The Grable Foundation of Pittsburgh.