Join us for an inspiring summer of creativity at Camp TOM: Summer Art Adventures at the Tom Thomson Art Gallery! Designed for young artists ages 8-12, this camp offers the perfect blend of outdoor art exploration and hands-on art making in the studio. Led by the TOM’s Education and Engagement team, each of the 7 weeks (5-day camp) features a new theme, inspired by nature, contemporary artists, and the iconic works of Tom Thomson. Campers will explore the Gallery, bring their ideas to life in the TOM studio, and enjoy the great outdoors, all while being inspired and making new friends. It’s a summer of imagination, self-expression, and artistic discovery—whether you’re sketching, painting, or playing outside, there’s something for every young artist to enjoy!
Week 1: Into the Wild – Paint like TOM
Art Focus: Watercolour & Acrylic Painting, Colour Theory, Outdoor Sketching
Dates: July 6–10, 2026
Ages: 8–12 years old
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Cost: $295.00 (HST exempt) Including Camp TOM t-shirt!
Locations: Tom Thomson Art Gallery (804 1st Avenue West) & Harrison Park (75 2nd Avenue East) Bandshell
Week 2: Cut, Glue, Snap – Mixed Media Creations
Art Focus: Mixed Media, Collage, Papercutting
Dates: July 13–17, 2026
Ages: 8–12 years old
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Cost: $295.00 (HST exempt) Including Camp TOM t-shirt!
Locations: Tom Thomson Art Gallery (804 1st Avenue West) & Harrison Park (75 2nd Avenue East) Bandshell
Week 3: Shape It, Build It – Sculpture & 3D Art
Art Focus: Sculpture, Clay, 3D Explorations
Dates: July 20–24, 2026
Ages: 8–12 years old
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Cost: $295.00 (HST exempt) Including Camp TOM t-shirt!
Locations: Tom Thomson Art Gallery (804 1st Avenue West) & Harrison Park (75 2nd Avenue East) Bandshell
Week 4: Re-Worlding Rhythms – Art, Identity & Nature
Art Focus: Art Inspired by Personal Stories, Identity, and Nature; Collaboration Opportunities
Dates: July 27–31, 2026
Ages: 8–12 years old
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Cost: $295.00 (HST exempt) Including Camp TOM t-shirt!
Locations: Tom Thomson Art Gallery (804 1st Avenue West) & Harrison Park (75 2nd Avenue East) Bandshell
Week 5: Design It Your Way – Painting & Printmaking
Art Focus: Acrylic Painting, Printmaking, Graphic Design, Personal Projects
Dates: August 10–14, 2026
Ages: 8–12 years old
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Cost: $295.00 (HST exempt) Including Camp TOM t-shirt!
Locations: Tom Thomson Art Gallery (804 1st Avenue West) & Harrison Park (75 2nd Avenue East) Bandshell
Week 6: Play with Clay – Sculpture & 3D Creations
Art Focus: Clay, Sculpture, Collaborative and Individual 3D Art
Dates: August 17–21, 2026
Ages: 8–12 years old
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Cost: $295.00 (HST exempt) Including Camp TOM t-shirt!
Locations: Tom Thomson Art Gallery (804 1st Avenue West) & Harrison Park (75 2nd Avenue East) Bandshell
Week 7: Paint Like TOM – Nature-Inspired Outdoor Painting
Art Focus: Watercolour & Acrylic Painting, Outdoor Sketching, Plein Air Techniques
Dates: August 24–28, 2026
Ages: 8–12 years old
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Cost: $295.00 (HST exempt) Including Camp TOM t-shirt!
Locations: Tom Thomson Art Gallery (804 1st Avenue West) & Harrison Park (75 2nd Avenue East) Bandshell
Weekly Themes, Activities & Highlights:
- Outdoor Art Adventures: Sketch and paint in Harrison Park, inspired by Tom Thomson’s early paintings.
- Studio Projects: Collaborate on a mural in the TOM studio and explore various art techniques.
- Gallery Inspiration: Tour the TOM’s contemporary and collection exhibitions for sources of inspiration.
- Hands-On Artmaking: Try new skills like painting, printmaking, sculpture and more.
- Final Art Show: Showcase your artwork in a special exhibition at the TOM atrium!
Why It’s Fun
- Create in Nature: Paint and draw outdoors, just like Tom Thomson did in his iconic works.
- Hands-On Discovery: Explore new art techniques, mediums, and 3D creations.
- Make Friends: Connect with other young artists who love to create.
- Inspiration Everywhere: Hikes, trails, and gallery visits spark curiosity and imagination.
- Art to Take Home: Each week, campers make projects to proudly share—including designing and tie-dyeing their own Camp TOM T-shirt.
What to Bring:
- Comfortable clothing for making art
- Running shoes
- Sunscreen, hat, and water bottle
- Snacks and lunch (nut-free please)
- A creative spirit!
- All art materials will be provided
Registration Information:
Camp TOM is packed with artmaking adventures that inspire creativity, build new skills, and celebrate the joy of making art. From painting ‘en plein air’ to printing on t-shirts, every week is a chance to create, explore, and discover your artistic voice!
If you would like to register for Camp TOM online, please click below:
REGISTRATIONS OPENING FEBRUARY 17, 2026 9am!
Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity for your young artist to explore, create, and grow! Secure your child’s spot in Camp TOM. Whether they’re a budding painter, sculptor, or designer, there’s a week tailored for every young artist. Let them discover the world of art and expression in a fun, supportive, and creative environment.
Camp TOM – Cancellation & Refund Policy
- All cancellations must be submitted by email to hmcleese@tomthomson.org.
- Cancellations received by Friday, May 30, 2026 are eligible for a 75% refund. After this date, no refunds will be issued, except for medical or emergency reasons with a doctor’s note. A $50 administrative fee applies to all approved refunds.
- The Tom Thomson Art Gallery may cancel or combine camp sessions if minimum enrollment is not met at least 14 days before the start date. A full refund will be provided if a session is cancelled by the Gallery.
Need more information?
Call Tom Thomson Art Gallery at 519-376-1932 ext. 5006 or email hmcleese@tomthomson.org for more information on Camp TOM.
