Monroe's art summer camp inspired by Port of Monroe's tugboat

MONROE — Art Camp with Amy took a field trip Wednesday.

All last week, local artist Amy Arnold led the youth art camp. The annual summer camp program is offered by Monroe County Opportunity Program and the Opportunity Center at the Arthur Lesow Community Center . On Wednesday, more than 20 youths and Arnold visited the Port of Monroe , Michigan’s only port on Lake Erie.

Campers painted an image of the port's tugboat, Wisconsin. Built in 1897, the tugboat was moved to the Port of Monroe in 2018, according to Monroe News archives.

"DRM Terminal Management staff were on-hand to explain the use of tugboats in their work at the port," said Stephanie Kasprzak, MCOP executive director.

Art Camp with Amy also included activities like tie-dyed shirts, garden art and drawing.

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"Amy also brought in another artist to walk the kids through the painting process," Kasprzak said. “The kids at the center just love Ms. Amy. She brings her wonderful talent to share with the kids, and their artwork is scattered throughout the center.”

"We are grateful for this partnership with Amy Arnold, DRM and the Port of Monroe," Kasprzak added. "In partnership, all things are possible. The mission of MCOP is to reduce the effects of poverty by empowering families, strengthening communities and mobilizing resources through community action."

Summer Arts Camp through MCOP and ALCC was offered for seven weeks this summer for youths ages 7-13. The camps are free. The final two sessions are: "Let's Get Digital Camp," the week of July 29, and "Young Authors Camp," the week of Aug. 5.

— Contact reporter Suzanne Nolan Wisler at swisler@monroenews.com .

This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Monroe's art summer camp inspired by Port of Monroe's tugboat