Mythical Gardens and Creatures

Explore the intersection of architecture and the natural world in this hands-on workshop designed for creative teens ages 11-14. Each week, take on a new challenge, building foundational skills in design, drawing, and model-making while developing innovative concepts for real-world rescue and observation structures. This course will provide an introduction to the field of design led by accomplished local architects Daniel Katebini of CCY Architects and Chris Beebe, a specialist in sustainable design and historic preservation. Participants will begin by visiting and analyzing a local site, learning from the local ecology through sketching and photography to develop forms and concepts for their structures. Participants will learn how to translate those observations into functional designs that address specific needs, like wildlife rescue, star observation, or avalanche safety. Dive into research and master essential techniques for drawing, collaging, and hand-building under the guidance of professional architects and artists. Over four sessions, participants create concept models, refine plans and elevations, and bring vision to life. The workshop concludes with a formal presentation and critique, where you showcase your finished project and reflect on how your work has evolved. Discover how architecture can harmonize with nature and make an impact in the wild. Site Visit Class One: Apr 1, 2025 4:30pm - 6:30pm On our first day of the workshop students will be conducting a site visit. It is strongly recommended that they are prepared with warm clothing and high quality shoes. Transportation Students traveling from Aspen High School can take Owl #4 - Horse Ranch/Snowmass Club/Owl Creek Bus. A staff member from Anderson Ranch will be waiting at the stop for Fairway 3 Apts. from 3:59pm - 4:10pm to meet the bus and walk participants to the Ranch. Please click here to register for this bus.

Embark on an extraordinary week of adventure and creativity as students dive into the vibrant world of Mayan art and culture! Each day, they explore new activities such as building towering pyramids with clay and cardboard, weaving intricate textiles on handmade looms, and crafting colorful masks with paper mâché, feathers, and beads. As we create, students uncover the fascinating stories and history of the Maya civilization. Using materials like paint, clay, and even corn husks, they bring ancient traditions to life through hands-on art projects that combine creative expression and interactive learning, connecting them to one of the world's most intriguing cultures in a fun and engaging way.

Get ready to make some noise! In this cacophonous workshop, we combine the worlds of music and art. Students create their own shakers from found and recycled materials, fashion kazoos from everyday kitchen items, and design tambourines out of plates. The fun doesn’t stop there-—we dive into ribbon dancing, play with shadow, create immersive soundscapes, and so much more. We find inspiration from jazz musicians such as Thelonius Monk and Billie Holiday and classic stories such as “Peter and the Wolf.” This workshop is a celebration of sound, movement, and imagination!