THE Grand Opera House, in York, is running an art camp for ages six to 16 during half term week, led by Greg McGee, co-director of the According to McGee gallery, from October 29 to November 1.

The camps will take place at the Melbourne Centre on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, and at the Opera House on Thursday from 10am to 3.30pm.

Young artists will learn how to draw and paint a wide number of subject matters in a wide variety of mediums: charcoal, Indian ink, brusho ink, acrylic, pastels, and more,” says artist and award-winning teacher Greg.

“At the end of the sessions, delivered with energy in a relaxed environment, is a sketchbook, a portfolio, a canvas masterpiece and an Arts Award at Discover or Explore levels.

“These achievements will look great on a CV and are nationally recognised qualifications, perfect introductions to Bronze Awards, which equate to a percentage of a GCSE.”

The art camp will focus on painting and photography, as well as children having the chance to design Manga Monsters on Thursday at the Opera House.

“An art camp collaboration with the Grand Opera House makes perfect sense, especially at Hallowe’en,” says Greg. “Young artists have very vivid imaginations, and there’s something about Hallowe’en that makes beautiful buildings like the Opera House and snappy creativity in our art camp such a fertile mix.”

The art camp costs £80 for the week or £20 a day and places can be booked by phoning Greg McGee on 07973 653702. He can provide more information on that number too.

“In November, there’ll be a citycentre exhibition when friends and family will be able to view the work,” he says. Watch this space.

The art camp forms part of the Grand Opera House’s celebration of the Family Arts Festival, the first nationwide festival of theatre, dance, music and visual arts events designed to increase family participation in the arts.