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Turn a week of summer into hands-on learning: Branch Out: Masterpiece Mashup invites K–8 students in Lake Charles to remix famous artworks into original pieces. Small classes, CPSB-certified teachers, and a July exhibit give young artists technique and an audience.
Turn a week of summer into hands-on learning: Branch Out: Masterpiece Mashup invites K–8 students in Lake Charles to remix famous artworks into original pieces. Small classes, CPSB-certified teachers, and a July exhibit give young artists technique and an audience.
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Operated by Imperial Calcasieu Museum · Lake Charles, Louisiana
Branch Out: Masterpiece Mashup turns a week of summer into a hands-on art laboratory for kids in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Hosted at the museum, this five-day session invites students who have completed kindergarten through eighth grade to reimagine famous artworks using drawing, painting, collage, ceramics and mixed media. Weeks run July 6–10 and July 13–17, with a public exhibit of camper work on display July 30–August 8.
The program is structured for creativity and skill-building. Certified Calcasieu Parish School Board teachers staff small classes capped at 12 students by age group, with a total maximum enrollment of 48 per week. Half-day and full-day options accommodate family schedules; drop-off and pick-up happen through the museum's side entrance for smooth arrivals. The curriculum rotates through techniques—shape and form, color theory, paper craft and ceramics—so repeat campers continue to learn new processes and materials.
What sets Masterpiece Mashup apart is the 'makeover' premise: familiar artworks become starting points, not rules. Instructors guide students to analyze color, composition and intent, then remix those elements into original pieces. That blend of art history, critical thinking and hands-on practice builds confidence as well as technique. The summer exhibit offers a professional finish, giving campers a real audience and a lesson in presentation and pride of work.
Practical details matter to parents. Priority registration runs in March and secures lower tuition and a camp t-shirt. Fees for half-day sessions are $100 for ICM members and $125 for non-members during priority registration; full-day sessions are $225 for members and $250 for non-members. After priority registration prices rise: half-day becomes $125/$150 and full-day becomes $275/$300, and camp shirts are not guaranteed.
For kids who thrive on making and problem solving, this camp provides structure without stifling inventiveness. Materials are varied—paint, paper, clay and collage supplies—so expect messy, lively classes and finished pieces that reflect each child's voice. Parents should pack a labeled smock or old shirt and a water bottle; the staff manages supplies and safety for ceramics and other hands-on elements.
Whether your child is embarking on their first summer art program or returning for a new theme, Branch Out: Masterpiece Mashup in Lake Charles delivers a week of guided experimentation, skill growth and a gallery moment to celebrate their work. Families appreciate the clear schedule and the opportunity to watch progress across five days; the exhibit from July 30 to August 8 makes the effort visible and meaningful. Instructors provide constructive critique tailored to each age cohort and emphasize safe studio habits. Space fills quickly after priority registration, so reserve a slot early to guarantee placement and a camp shirt. Visit the booking page via the provided referral link to see availability and session options and register.
Open to students who have completed kindergarten through eighth grade; no exceptions.
Masterpiece Mashup runs July 6–10 and July 13–17, with the exhibit on display July 30–August 8.
Yes—both half-day and full-day options are available for all camp weeks.
All instructors are certified teachers from the Calcasieu Parish School Board and experienced art professionals.
Classes are grouped by age with a maximum of 12 students per class and an overall weekly cap of 48 students.
Register online via the provided referral link; priority registration in March secures lower tuition and increases the chance of receiving a camp t-shirt.
Imperial Calcasieu Museum, located in Lake Charles, Louisiana, is a nonprofit cultural institution dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history and creative traditions of Southwest Louisiana. The museum presents rotating exhibits, community programs, and special events that highlight local heritage and visual arts. Programming ranges from family-focused experiences to seasonal public events staged under the museum’s historic Sallier Oak, a landmark setting that connects visitors with regional stories. The museum’s events include signature experiences such as Lighting of the Oak: SPIRITS, held on October 23. That evening combines storytelling by local historian Adley Cormier, immersive performances by roaming interpreters, and support for the museum’s nonprofit mission. Another public offering is the Kidz Birthday Party program, which provides a guided painting session, a curated museum tour, and free playtime, with cleanup handled by staff to simplify planning for families. These programs are designed to engage children and adults with hands-on art-making and local history. Imperial Calcasieu Museum partners with regional artists, historians, and community organizations to maintain programming that is both educational and welcoming. The museum’s nonprofit status and reliance on community support underscore a commitment to access and preservation. Visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences in Lake Charles will find museum events that prioritize storytelling, creative participation, and the unique traditions of Southwest Louisiana. As a civic resource in Lake Charles, the museum maintains regular hours, hosts community-driven exhibitions, and documents regional stories through collections, educational outreach, and event programming that reflect local identity and support cultural tourism in Southwest Louisiana.
Book with Imperial Calcasieu Museum