Nature Art Explorations

Nature Art Explorations is a 6-month nature-based art program serving 72 students in grades 1–5 at Ruch Outdoor Community School (ROCS) on Mondays. This program was born out of community need: 72% of ROCS families are economically disadvantaged, and district-wide budget cuts have left the school without a formal art program.

Each session is a full-day nature art camp where students dive into immersive, theme-based experiences that weave together formal art concepts, art history, environmental art, cultural traditions, and social-emotional learning. The day flows from morning circle through structured creation blocks, collaborative projects, and reflective discussion — giving students both creative freedom and meaningful structure.

The community's enthusiasm has been incredible. Due to high demand, Sticks and Stones Studio now offers Nature Art Explorations in 5-week sessions to welcome even more students. In our current cycle, we've already explored so much: we studied Andrew Goldsworthy's nature assemblage work and created our own Earth Art, explored textures in the natural world and translated them into clay, crafted journey sticks to carry with us on life's adventures outdoors, and drew inspiration from recycled-material artist Clare Graham.

We'd love for you to join us! Families and community members are invited to a public art showcase on April 23rd to celebrate student growth and the creativity that has flourished this season.

Our Funders:

Our Program has been supported by grant funding and fundraising efforts by the community. We would love to extend a heartfelt thank you to the donors who helped make this program possible:

  • The Carpenter Foundation

  • Jackson County Cultural Coalition

  • Oregon Cultural Trust

  • A Greater Applegate

  • The Roundhouse Foundation

  • The Bottle Drop Gives Program

  • Go Fund Me and parent donations

Program Mission

  • • Foster a connection to and stewardship of the natural environment

  • • Develop problem-solving skills and innovation through hands-on artistic exploration

  • • Create enriching opportunities for children who may have limited access to arts education

  • • Encourage self-expression and build self-confidence through art

  • “I do not want ART for a few any more than education for a few, or freedom for a few.”

    —William Morris