For more than 18 years, Art Rocks Teens (A.R.T.) has provided FREE art and music classes for 13-18 year-olds three days a week, after school and all summer long. The program even includes a FREE Rock & Roll Camp that brings indie musicians from some of the Northwest’s most notable bands to work with teens to create their own music and perform it on Main Street.
We work hard to provide a safe and creative space for teens to spend their time – and enjoy some snacks! The Teen Art Council is a dedicated group of volunteers ages 13- 18 who brainstorm, plan classes, and sometimes even teach.
While we offer A.R.T. classes and Rock & Roll Camp free of charge, it’s an expensive program that depends on your support. There are many ways to help: Give your time by volunteering during an event, give your gently used musical instruments to the cause, or give a monetary donation to help leverage the funds we ask businesses and foundations for. Our teen programs are made possible through the support of the Oregon Arts Commission, the Roundhouse Foundation, PGE Foundation, Union Pacific Foundation, and our members.
Download the permission form here:
A.R.T. Parent Permission Form ENGLISH
A.R.T. Parent Permission Form ESPAÑOL
Did you Know? Pendleton Center for the Art’s has an active TEEN ADVISORY COUNCIL! It gives our teens an outlet to mingle and give important feedback on classes & programs here at the PCA. This council is also great on resumes, job applications, trade-school and college applications! Check out the schedule below.
Prefer a calendar format instead of a list? View it HERE.
Current Schedule – FREE for teens 13-18!
If you’re 16-18, check the Adult Class Schedule – you may take any of those offerings FREE as well! Just print the parent permission form to submit at PCA and use the code ARTROCKS when checking out.
CREATION STATION – a FREE independent study opportunity
TUE-FRI, 10:30-3:30 PM, SATURDAY 12:30-3:30 PM
(NOTE: on rare occasions there are private events that preclude use of the Creation Station. If you’re traveling to PCA, call us to check, 541-278-9201)
We’ve put together a buffet of cool art materials that you can choose from. Grab a table, follow an online tutorial or just experiment and see where your curiosity takes you. From weaving kits, to needle felting, to embroidery, to painting and collage, and more – there’s sure to be something to spark your interest. No need to sign up, no tuition, just come on by!
TEEN ARTS COUNCIL
with PCA Staff
3rd FRIDAY of each month, with potential for addition days
The ART ROCKS TEENS (A.R.T.) Advisory Council provides teens an opportunity to add their voice to programming here at the P.C.A. The group meets in a variety of settings from restaurants, local attractions, and community outreach sites. Activities range from talk sessions to leading classing to trying new creative experiences. The program is totally free, all treats, meals and admissions are covered by the PCA. Bring your ideas and skill you are ready to share! Everyone is welcome, no experience required.
TEEN MUG RUGS – Sewing Workshop
with Erica Edwards
THURSDAY| 4:00–5:30 PM
May 7th, May 14th, May 21st, May 28th 2026 (four sessions)
Learn the basics of quilting and sewing in this beginner-friendly workshop! Participants will practice hand and machine sewing techniques while piecing together a quilted mug rug, including sewing the quilt top and binding. Open to beginners. Free for teens
MINIATURE PAINTINGS
with Peter Bryan
SATURDAY, 1:00 – 3:00 PM
May 23rd and 30th 2026
*same class different date, choose which one works for you
Support one of our favorite teaching artists by joining Peter Bryan as he guides you through the process of painting on mini-canvases using a variety of mediums. Peter uses bursts of colors and textures to explore the many possibilities of his style of art. Each student will be provided with four mini-canvases to create the perfect set of personal paintings. This class is being offered free of charge- all levels are welcome.
GLOW IN THE DARK ART
with Peter Bryan
SATURDAY, 1:00 – 3:00 PM
July 25th, August 1st 2026 (Two Session)
Explore the unexpected in this hands-on workshop with Peter Bryan. Experiment with glow-in-the-dark paints and printmaking techniques to create bold, luminous designs that play with light, texture, and composition. Push your creativity, take risks, and discover new ways to make images come alive. Wear mess-friendly clothes and bring your curiosity and adventurous spirit—all materials are provided.
CHAOS PAINTINGS
With Jack Hess
THURSDAYS, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
July 2nd– July 16th, 2026 (3 sessions)
Explore mediums beyond the canvas in this experimental painting class. Jack will lead students through mixing uncommon media together to create a “chaos painting” or a fusion of uncommon materials and processes. Jack will encourage students to focus on their process and having fun, rather than seeking perfection. Come with an open mind and an excitement for creating a little bit of chaos.
SCULPTURE CAMP
With Hadley Marshall
TUESDAY- FRIDAY 3:00- 4:30
June 23rd-June 26th 2026 (4 sessions)
This class is designed for teens who want to deeply explore sculpture creation. Hadley will guide students through the foundations of sculpture-making and show how everyday materials can be turned into something exciting. The focus is on creativity, interpretation, and playful experimentation rather than technical perfection. The camp will culminate with an exhibition of students’ work, along with an opening reception.
TEEN OPEN STUDIO- a FREE drop-in class!
with PCA Staff
TUESDAY, 3:00 – 5:00 PM
June 2nd- August 4th 2026 (9 sessions)
*(no class on June 23rd)
Teens ages 13 – 18 now have full access to the PCA’s art materials and studio space! Inspire and explore art independently through open-ended drawing, painting, collage, or anything else your imagination comes up with! The emphasis is on creative learning and peer connection through art making.
SCULPTURE STORIES
With Hadley Marshall
WEDNESDAYS, 4:00pm – 5:30pm
July 1- 29, 2026 (5 Sessions)
Explore a melding of mediums in Sculpture Stories, a creative class for adults and teens ages 16+ that brings words off the page and into three-dimensional form. Students will explore how short stories can be translated into physical form through, texture, shape, and color. This class is process-driven, encouraging students to explore and create without pressure. Sculpture Stories is taught by Hadley Marshall, an artist and writer with English and Art degrees, who enjoys helping students connect visual art and language in exciting ways.
WELCOME TO THE 90s Camp
With Erica Edwards
Tuesday–Friday, 10:30 AM–12:00 PM
August 18th–21st, 2026 (4 sessions)
Harken back to the golden age of the 90s—summer camp style! In this fun, hands-on class, students will dive into four totally rad projects inspired by classic 90s crafts. We’ll make plastic lanyards (boondoggles), create colorful pony bead keychains, melt Perler beads into unique art, and of course, tie-dye something awesome to take home.
PAINT A PLATE
With Melissa Weston
WEDNESDAY, 6:00-7:30PM
June 17th, 2026 (1 session)
In this creative teen workshop, participants will design and paint their own decorative plate using ceramic-safe paints and guided techniques. Students will explore color, pattern, and personal expression while creating a functional piece of art to take home. This class encourages creativity and experimentation in a relaxed, supportive environment. No prior experience is needed—just a willingness to have fun and try something new.
BEGINNING UKULELE (ages 13-18)
with Cary Wasem-Varela
THURSDAYS, 5:00pm-6:00pm
July 9th–30th, 2026 (4 Sessions)
Ready to make music this summer? Join this fun and engaging beginner ukulele class designed just for teens! Students will learn the basics of ukulele playing, including simple chords, strumming patterns, and easy songs in a supportive, relaxed environment. No prior musical experience is needed—just bring your enthusiasm! By the end of the session, participants will be able to play a few songs and have a solid foundation to keep practicing on their own.
BEGINNING GUITAR WITH CHARLIE (ages 16+)
with Charlie Herrington
WEDNESDAYS, 6:30 – 7:30 PM
June 10th- July 29th (eight sessions)
Learn basic guitar skills and build a foundation for playing all kinds of music, from country to blues to rock and roll. You’ll start with the glory of G-C-D and simple scales and basic rhythms. Eventually you’ll work your way up to playing some simple solos. No guitar experience necessary. Please bring a guitar – visit Pendleton Music Co. for affordable instrument rentals. FREE! Register online!
CONTINUED GUITAR WITH CHARLIE (ages 16+)
with Charlie Herrington
WEDNESDAYS, 7:30 – 8:30 PM
June 10th- July 29th (eight sessions)
If you’re already familiar with playing the guitar and are looking to further enhance your skill set, this is the class for you. Join Charlie as he continues to teach the art of all things guitar. Returning students are welcome. Please bring a guitar – visit Pendleton Music Co. for affordable instrument rentals.
JAM NIGHT- FREE DROP-IN
with Charlie Herrington
SECOND TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH
7:00 – 8:00 PMA casual and fun get together for musicians of all experience levels. Blues, rock, country, pop and more. We’ll experiment with a variety of instruments. Guitars, mandolin, bongos…bring what you have and join us for an awesome jam session.
COUNTRY DANCE a FREE drop-in class!
With Janet Yarbrough
First Friday of each month. 6:00PM–10:00PM
May 8th, May 22nd,June 5th, July 3rd, August 7th ( 5 sessions)
Join Janet Yarbrough with YB Dancing and Samantha with Radiant Line Dance for our continued free country dance class. Participants will learn different line dance styles, swing dance moves, and a variety of other group and couple country dances. Come by yourself or bring a partner. Dance instruction is open to dancers of all skill sets for our dates from 6:00-8:00 with our monthly Dance Nights from 8:00-10:00 for more those who want to do some more advanced dances.
FAMILY CLASSES:
BIRD HOUSE PAINTING
With Racheal Wilmer
FRIDAY, 3:00- 4:30
June 12th or July 10th 2026
This class will be offered twice. Choose the week that works best for you!
This all-ages class offers a relaxed, creative space for participants to paint and decorate a wooden birdhouse in their own unique style. Emphasis is placed on imagination and personal expression, with a wide variety of paints and materials available to explore. Families, friends, and individuals are welcome to create at their own pace in a fun, supportive environment. Each participant will take home a one-of-a-kind birdhouse ready to display or enjoy outdoors.
$25 per student- Free for Teens
ART AT THE PARK- all ages drop in!
LAST SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH, 9:00AM- 11:00AM
June 27th, July 25th, August 29th
With Hadley and Racheal
Join us for a fun family outing at Pioneer Park! Once a month we will have different art activities for you and your family to walk up and experience. All you need to bring is yourself and a creative attitude! See you there
NOT YOUR GRANDMA’S PAINTING: family class
with Melissa Weston
FRIDAY, 6:00 – 7:30 PM
1ST Friday of each month. June 5th, July 3rd, August 7th. (3 sessions)
In this playful, family-style class, participants will transform vintage-style paintings into altered works of art. Choose to work individually or collaborate with others as you add personal flair, unexpected details, and creative twists to what may have once been a forgotten piece.
Open to teens and adults. All skill levels are welcome, making this a fun and accessible creative experience for families, friends, and individuals alike. All supplies are provided.
$45 per family (up to 3 people) +$10 per extra participant- Free for Teens
$10 BUCK TUESDAY (ALL AGES)
with Erica Edwards
TUESDAYS, 6:30 – 8:00 PM
July 7th – August 18th 2026
(No class August 11th for Rock and Roll Camp)
A low-cost, high-creativity open studio series where YOU help choose what we make each week. Each Tuesday features a different hands-on art project, ranging from printmaking and fiber arts to paper crafts and experimental techniques. Possible projects include: candle dipping, LEGO printing, origami, paper quilling, handmade paper, and macramé plant holders. Every week, we’ll post an Instagram poll where participants vote on the evening’s project—so the class you take is shaped by what the community wants to make. Come for one session or all of them. Each class stands alone and is designed to be beginner-friendly, fun, and accessible for all ages.
$10 drop in. Free for anyone under 18 with an adult participant