Recently, $1,600 was raised for youth scholarships that will provide opportunities for students who may not be able to afford to attend Center Studio art classes at the South Haven Center for the Arts. The funds were raised through the successful Spring Gala Fundraiser, held in May, that brought in over $27,000 for Art Center programming and general fund.
 
In addition, $500 was awarded for scholarships through the Youth Advisory Council (YAC), $500 from the South Haven Community Foundation and another $1,500 from Wal Mart, according to the Center's Executive Director Marie Maguire. "I am very pleased that we can provide these scholarships to area students, thanks to support from art center members and the community," said Maguire.
 
40 area students have been nominated for scholarships (by their art teachers) and will be able to attend 5 one hour-long sessions, held Tuesday through Friday, beginning June 23 and ending August 7.  
 
Sarah Benson, South Haven elementary art teacher/artist, and Tina Walter, a certified Visual Arts Education K-12 instructor (and decorative muralist), will be instructing these fun, lively classes. They comprise, in part, making Polymer Clay People Magnets, Wind Puppets, Tincraft Ornaments, Funky Film Collage, Stick Sculptures and creating Mexican Yarn Painting. Every day means a new project.
 
To learn more about the youth scholarships, the Center Studio Classes and instructors, call 269-637-1041, check out our website or stop in the Art Center, located at 600 Phoenix Street. Hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., weekends, 1-4 p.m.