By Mandy Martin - Northumberland Today
May 28, 2009

A professional school of the arts is being launched for Northumberland County.

Photographer Cindy Taylor and husband Jim Henderson, musician and educator, have connected with professionals in the arts as part of their dream.

"The arts are fundamental part of a confident and cultured society," the Northumberland School of the Arts (NSOTA) fact sheet states.

What's envisioned is a multi-faceted art school featuring education in visual arts, digital media, music, drama, photography, textiles, crafts, cuisine, gardening and a variety of other mediums.

Plans are afoot to locate to a permanent home near the Cobourg waterfront this fall. Until then, summer camp programs primarily targeted to eight-16-year-olds are offered in weekly blocks starting July 6 through Aug. 28, with three-hour morning or afternoon sessions at a cost of $125.

The camps will run out of St. Peter's Anglican Church, just across from Victoria Park, for July and August. It's a perfect fit for the younger summer set because add-on day care is also available at the same facility.

Taylor and Henderson say they recognized a need within the county for art instruction at a professional standard. At the same time, they wanted "to contribute to their community in a way everyone would benefit and enjoy."

Students of all ages will come from all walks of life and levels of experience to participate, they predict.

"As of September 2009, NSOTA will move to their permanent location with multiple-use studios and open spaces that ensure an environment where people will want to discover, create and learn," they say.

The school concept became reality after meeting with professional artists of many mediums resident in Northumberland County. There has been enthusiastic uptake.

It could be preparing a fine meal is your desire; capturing a perfect image with camera or in paints; weaving a textile; performing a play -- the full range of the arts will be included and represented at the new arts school.

The fall program catalogue is scheduled for print in July.

Four-, six-and 12-week courses; one-, half-and two-day workshops are also planned.

"Artists and students of all levels and ages will come here for the gifted instructors and the supportive community that encourages experimentation and growth," Taylor says. "NSOTA also includes a mobile outreach program, private lessons, reference library and special event programming."

While the summer programming is geared to young people, there is one course offering for adults: electric guitar, open to ages 16 to 99 years. There's still time to tour!

For more information, visit www.northumberland-schoolofthearts.com, or call 905-377-8812.