Tuesday-Thursday camp from 12:30 – 4:30 pm
Students will explore iconic imagery and cultural traditions while experimenting with a wide range of materials and techniques. Projects include a one-point perspective drawing of the Kremlin, a vibrant 3D model of St. Basil’s Cathedral using cardboard and paint, and colorful oil pastel circles inspired by Wassily Kandinsky. Campers will also paint wooden nesting doll peg people, create floral folk art on canvas, experiment with Kandinsky-style geometric watercolor techniques, and design whimsical watercolor cats. Each project offers a fun and educational way to dive into Russian culture while developing foundational art skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, and design!
About the Instructor:
Brooks Billings brings creativity, care, and a deep passion for arts education to her role as an art teacher in the Northeastern Oklahoma Public School System. Since joining the school’s art program in 2021, Brooks has built an inspiring classroom environment where students are encouraged to explore different mediums, embrace the creative process, and express themselves fearlessly.
A longtime Joplin resident, Brooks comes from a family of educators, artists, and musicians. Her approach to teaching is hands-on and heart-forward—if the room isn’t a little messy, she says, they probably aren’t creating! One of her proudest moments as an full time art educator was curating a student art show that felt like a professional gallery exhibition, highlighting the talent and voice of each young artist.
Outside the classroom, Brooks is a proud wife, mom, and “Omi” to twin grandbabies. Her commitment to nurturing creativity in others—both in the classroom and beyond—makes her a natural fit within the Spiva teaching community.
