Summer workshop to teach art, tech skills to Westmoreland high schoolers

A summer workshop will aim to broaden the STEM-related knowledge of creative high school students in Westmoreland County and parts of Fayette.

From June to August, ArtTEK will offer classes focusing on videography, 3D printing and more at 462 W. Main St. in Mt. Pleasant.

In its inaugural year, the program will be open to students entering ninth grade through those exiting 12th grade. Classes, which are limited to 15 people each, will cost between $75 and $300, though some scholarships are available.

Organizers consider the workshop an opportunity for participants to meet students from neighboring school districts, learn to work as a team and develop and understanding of how science, technology and artistry can work together.

Registration is required, and students can register up to four days before classes begin.

The following classes are open for students:

Business of Art: Students will learn about local business and “what it takes” to make it in Hollywood. Classes begin mid-July.

Videography: Students will produce footage that will be aired on local television stations. Classes begin July 12.

3D Printing: Students will build and keep their own 3D printers. Classes begin June 13.

Holography: Students will learn how to build working holograms. Classes begin July 25.

Westmoreland-based art retreat River Art Works will host the program. Jane Altman, the founder of River Art Works, said ArtTEK will prepare students for future classes and jobs.

“This is an excellent preparation for any schooling (students) want to go into,” Altman said. “…Our students are just as capable as any other students. We just need to provide them with opportunities.”

Programs such as ArtTEK aim to reverse the decline of the counties’ youth populations and bring children “up to speed” with current jobs and technologies, Altman said. Though many high schoolers are told they cannot be successful in an art-related career, Altman said more STEM-related jobs require artistic skill.

“This is the era of the artist who does well financially,” Altman said. “Everything technology is bringing in requires creative people.”

Altman said ArtTEK could become an after-school program, as well.

Those interested in the summer program can fill out an application on River Art Works’ website.