Concordia teams up with the YMCAs of Quebec to deliver expanded programming at annual fine arts summer day camps

The winter skies may still be grey and cloudy, but for many parents and caregivers, plans for sunnier days are already shaping up.

For those wondering how to occupy their kids on those long summer days, Concordia’s annual day camps are offering a renewed program this year. Children are invited to explore a range of mediums, including dance, drama, digital photography, and even video games.

Enriching programming for kids led by fine arts alumni

A collaboration between the Faculty of Fine Arts and the YMCAs of Quebec, the day camps are a chance for children ages 5 to 17 to be immersed in the arts. Since their inception in 2019, the faculty has provided a platform for artistic expression and creation while offering parents a refreshing option to keep their children engaged during the summer.

Last year, the initiative not only enriched the offerings to the community but also provided valuable employment opportunities to two fine arts alumni.

Due to a partnership and profit-sharing arrangement with the YMCA, programming coordinator contracts were awarded during the 2022–2023 school year to develop curriculum for the camps. Vania Djelani. BFA 20, focused on visual arts and digital arts, while Kate Markle, BFA 20, worked in the performing arts area.

 “Crafting an effective program involved envisioning goals, finding the right leaders, and ensuring the availability of materials and spaces. As an exploration-based program, we used a backward design approach focused on accessibility and co-creation practices,” says Djelani.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how the camp will continue to grow and provide children the opportunity to explore different mediums, while giving them access to spaces they might not otherwise have the chance to experience.”

The YMCA-Concordia Fine Arts camps are hosted at the Faculty of Fine Arts where children have an unparalleled opportunity to explore their creativity in state-of-the-art facilities.

Campers will be immersed in a bilingual (English and French) environment where they can indulge their passions for visual art, drama, dance, and music. Exciting additions to this year’s curriculum include electronic music composition, digital art, digital photography, and video game design.

Additionally, two specialized workshops are offered daily. Campers also have the chance to collaborate on a group project.

General registration commences February 14, with a five per cent early-bird discount available from February 14 until March 10.

For more information or to register, visit the Concordia Summer Camps page or the YMCA day camp web page.