Summer is the season of wonder.
It’s when kids have the freedom to ask, What if?
What if I could build a robot that moves?
What if my voice could become an instrument?
What if I said “yes” and stepped onto a stage?
What if I could tell my story through art?
This summer, COMPAS Teaching Artists are creating opportunities for those “what ifs” to become “I did it!” moments for Minnesotans of all ages and abilities.
Of course, our donors and supporters make all of this possible.
Wonder Takes Many Forms
Jan Elftmann is helping young inventors design robots with moving parts, exploring electricity, circuits, and motors. Lisa Arnold is introducing aspiring artists to the world of mosaics, showing how individual pieces come together into something beautiful. Constanza Carballo is empowering participants to tell their own stories through linocut printmaking.
Jen Scott is helping kids discover that improv is about building confidence by saying “yes” and seeing what happens next. Terrell X is revealing that the human body can become an instrument through the joyful art of beatboxing. Kashimana Ahua is filling libraries with music, movement, and interactive lullabies that invite everyone to shine their light. Moira Villiard is guiding painters through their own interpretation of a galaxy or night sky, proving there’s no “wrong” way to paint.
And everyday materials are becoming something extraordinary: Katrina Knutson is introducing the beloved Minnesota tradition of crop art, transforming seeds and grains into works of art. Amy Wilderson is turning memories into wearable art through wire jewelry.
Wonder Builds Community
Creativity also continues this summer through The Saint Paul Get Down. In collaboration with Saint Paul Parks and Recreation, WFNU Frogtown Community Radio, and other partners, COMPAS helps make this series of free community showcases possible. Throughout the summer, emerging hip-hop artists are working with Terrell X to develop their artistry, strengthen their confidence, and prepare to share their original voices with the community. The series culminates on August 29 at Raspberry Island with a city-wide celebration featuring live performances, DJs, graffiti artists, food trucks, and the next generation of creative voices taking the stage. Check out this blog post to get a sense of the magic that happens at the Get Down.
Every workshop, residency, and performance is an invitation to wonder. Every song, sculpture, print, and showcase reminds someone that their ideas matter. Wonder is where creativity begins, and creativity builds confidence, curiosity, resilience, and connection.
You Are Wonderful
Your generosity brings COMPAS Teaching Artists into communities across Minnesota, where they open doors to imagination, nurture creative confidence, and remind people of all ages that creativity belongs to everyone. You help keep wonder alive in Minnesota.
Want to experience the wonder yourself? Visit our Events page to explore upcoming COMPAS workshops, performances, and community events. We would love to see you there! While some programs have already filled, many opportunities are still available this summer, including experiences open to participants of all ages.
Make a gift today and help create the next moment of wonder.
Interested in bringing a COMPAS Teaching Artist into your school, organization, community center, or anywhere else? We love that for you! Get the conversation started here.
