Emerging Creatives
When it comes to what Caldera is about, student art is a misnomer. Explore the showcase of self-development through art and in-nature learning
Student Art by E.N. MoralesCaldera
When artists, mentors, and youth come together
After thousands of experiences as diverse as the individuals involved, Caldera has created an annual showcase experience that is a testament to what can happen when a supportive space is held for these groups to come together to collaborate and craft ideas one piece at a time.
Student Art by E.N. MoralesCaldera
Creative chaos happens
The creative process is finely orchestrated. This image captures what happens hours before students prep for their end-of-summer camp showcase.
A showcase of summer programming student paintings.
In a safe space, students explore many art mediums
You can always expect something new in Caldera's workshops. At this moment, a student displays a miniature LED light lamp.
Students learn specialty art trades from the best
Caldera's diversity of workshops is only possible through community partnerships like this with LAIKA Studios. This capture displays a gallery of custom-painted masks at the end of an art intensive’s two-day session.
They can explore stop-action animation
Detail of student crafting components for a short stop-action animation class conducted by LAIKA Studios of Portland, Oregon. LAIKA is a long-term Portland-based community partner of Caldera.
Student Art by E.N. MoralesCaldera
They are introduced to the creative process
Through Caldera’s two-day art intensives, students are given tools and random inspiration and they can reinvent the world. For example, it doesn’t take much instruction for students to gain the confidence to begin to redefine fashion for themselves.
Student Art by E.N. MoralesCaldera
A student crafts not only a garment but a complete world
During this art intensive, participants explored a branded clothing line and celebrated their accomplishments with their DIY-spirited runway show.
It's a hands-on approach to learning
In this scene, Caldera’s art instructor applies a mix of introspective thinking and clay-craft as a method of building creative confidence.
It's really not about the artwork
Caldera encourages students to try something different and celebrate their creative voice, as illustrated in this showcase moment where mentors and students are immersed in the supportive discussion.
They speak their truth
Whether it's a student who stays active year-round with Caldera or a first-time participant, it's fantastic to witness their personal growth and development of self-confidence.
Student Art by E.N. MoralesCaldera
It's a constant work-in-progress
Many layers of art practices take place in Caldera: Visual arts, writing, spoken word, film, dance, theater, cinema, environmental, sound, music, and beyond. Our programming constantly evolves to meet young learners at their level, like a backstage production, continually moving.
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
