CAC launched the Youth Arts Outreach Program in 2021 in partnership with the Duneland Boys & Girls Club. In 2022, the program was expanded to additionally serve five Duneland Family YMCA elementary after-school sites providing high-quality weekly visual arts instruction during the academic year to students at the partner program sites at no cost to students or families.

Youth Arts Outreach offers students the opportunity to engage with creative learning and design thinking with a curriculum that explores art history, STEAM, cultural topics, and various art-making techniques. This initiative supports CAC’s mission of creating accessible, enriching arts programming for the local community and beyond.

“Our students have loved having the CAC join us each week, and I know your instructors will be missed! I want to extend my sincerest thanks for the incredible impact the youth arts outreach program has had on our out of school learning initiatives. The CAC’s dedication to providing enriching artistic experiences for young minds is commendable. Thank you for your commitment to fostering creativity and inspiring the next generation of artists! “

-Becca Colbert, Director of Youth and Aquatic Programs, Duneland Family YMCA

Our 2024-2025 program is generously supported by Cleveland-Cliffs Foundation.

CAC’s Teen Arts Group (TAG) is a free monthly program for passionate artists ages 13-18 interested in pursuing professional arts experiences and strengthening their own visual art practices. TAG members will learn from one another and professional artists, explore area and Chicago museums and galleries, and work on individual portfolio development. TAG will also offer access to various community engagement and exhibition opportunities.

TAG meets on the second Wednesday of the month from 4:30-6:30 PM at the Art Center.

We encourage interested students to join today! TAG is a great way to meet people with similar creative interests and become a part of the arts community.

To join, email programs@chestertonart.org + complete the TAG Questionnaire here.

Interested in supporting TAG? Learn more & donate to our Kevin Hicks TAG Memorial Fund here.

Family Art Day is a quarterly program where we encourage families and folks to visit CAC and explore the current exhibit, followed by creating art together! In line with our mission to create accessible programming, these events are totally free + all ages are welcome.

Family Art Days are generously supported by Urschel Giving, Chesterton Feed and Garden Center, and Wellsand Landscaping + Hardscapes.

Our next Family Art Day is Saturday, Aug 24 from 10 AM-2 PM.

Register here

Art Visits invite small groups of all ages to the Center to enjoy a private gallery tour with engaging grade-appropriate discussions, followed by a unique, hands-on art project inspired by the current exhibit on display.

These visits are recommended for organizations, school groups, or troops.

To book your visit, complete an Art Visit Form + email it to programs@chestertonart.org or call the Center at (219) 926-4711.

Emerging Artists Society (EAS) is a program dedicated to supporting and empowering early to mid career artists, both professional and recreational, by providing opportunities for learning, sharing and connecting with one another as well as professional and portfolio development. We hope you can join us, meetings take place on the third Thursday of each month, and potential new members are always welcome to come and check it out.

For more information, email programs@chestertonart.org

Chesterton Art Center (CAC) has worked to build strong outreach partnerships within our local community for public art projects, exhibitions, art workshops, and school visits. We’re thrilled to partner with Chesterton Parks and Recreation Department, Shirley Heinze Land Trust, Red Cup Cafe, and Porter County schools.

If your organization is interested in partnering with CAC, please contact programs@chestertonart.org.