Creative Expression in Nature
Explore how reconnecting in nature invites a deeper level of expression for learners through art-making, creativity, and mentoring methods
Caldera Summer Program by E.N. MoralesCaldera
Within the context of nature and the warmth of community
Young learners are allowed to find themselves by embracing art head-on as they discover self-expression through photo montage craft. They are afforded the room they need for their curiosities to grow and take risks in a safe community.
Caldera Summer Program by E.N. MoralesCaldera
It’s not about the art
Mask design and crafting are the means for young students to explore self-identity and ignite their creative voice.
A display of pride and celebration of self-discovery
Through Caldera’s hosted experiences, students embrace new ways of thinking and self-expression.
They grow
In the typical Caldera student cohort cycle of eight years, we witness their discovery and immersion in various art practices. African drumming instruction can begin in middle school and remain a constant practice until they graduate from the Caldera program.
Growth with the right support
African drumming instructor Hakim Rashad Muhammad has perfected a teaching methodology that meets the needs of students. Hakim is a very familiar face in Caldera's community.
It's about fun as well
Learning in nature has its perks! Caldera's summer program offers students many structured outdoor activities, taking advantage of the direct access to Blue Lake in Sisters on the Eastern slopes of Oregon's Cascades.
Community building is a work in progress
It's impossible to overstate the chemistry that happens when a hodgepodge of youth from the two sides of Oregon come together and become lifetime friends.
And they keep coming back
In this decade-long photo documentation of students, it is common to confuse new students with returning Youth Advocates during summer camp. That's because Caldera thrives when a healthy community returns to pay it forward, as these young adults have done for decades.
Some of the familiar faces
Here's a testament to lifelong friendships. Not long ago, they took part in summer learning, and now they are Youth Advocates on their way to positively impacting their communities.
Caldera programs rely on the care of passionate people
Nutrition is an essential part of the summer program. Regardless of the heat in the outdoor kitchen, the summer staff is committed to meeting the challenge of delivering hundreds of healthy meals a day. And the food is served with a familiar smile from caldera alums.
Caldera Summer Program by E.N. MoralesCaldera
A common cause
It's all hands on deck regarding food preparation at Caldera. At this moment, community elders and staff were prepping for the next round of summer program meals.
Caldera Summer Program by E.N. MoralesCaldera
These are true guardians of the youth
They are leaders in environmental science, arts, and youth advocacy, coming together to deliver the Caldera mission year after year.
Caldera Summer Program by E.N. MoralesCaldera
It’s as simple as a magic formula
It's a little bit of everything and primarily relentless lifetime dedication to Caldera’s youth-focused mission. The proof is the endless smiles and lifelong mentorship connections.
This shared story is part of a decade-long visual chronicle in the making, documented by E.N. Morales, highlighting the fundamentals of Caldera programs.
Editor, Randal Garcia
© 2024 Caldera
