For more than 18 years, Art Rocks Teens (A.R.T.) has provided FREE art and music classes for 13-18 year-olds three days a week, after school and all summer long. The program even includes a FREE Rock & Roll Camp that brings indie musicians from some of the Northwest’s most notable bands to work with teens to create their own music and perform it on Main Street.
We work hard to provide a safe and creative space for teens to spend their time – and enjoy some snacks! The Teen Art Council is a dedicated group of volunteers ages 13- 18 who brainstorm, plan classes, and sometimes even teach.
While we offer A.R.T. classes and Rock & Roll Camp free of charge, it’s an expensive program that depends on your support. There are many ways to help: Give your time by volunteering during an event, give your gently used musical instruments to the cause, or give a monetary donation to help leverage the funds we ask businesses and foundations for. Our teen programs are made possible through the support of the Oregon Arts Commission, the Roundhouse Foundation, PGE Foundation, Union Pacific Foundation, and our members.
Download the permission form here:
A.R.T. Parent Permission Form ENGLISH
A.R.T. Parent Permission Form ESPAÑOL
Did you Know? Pendleton Center for the Art’s has an active TEEN ADVISORY COUNCIL! It gives our teens an outlet to mingle and give important feedback on classes & programs here at the PCA. This council is also great on resumes, job applications, trade-school and college applications! Check out the schedule below.
Prefer a calendar format instead of a list? View it HERE.
Current Schedule – FREE for teens 13-18!
If you’re 16-18, check the Adult Class Schedule – you may take any of those offerings FREE as well! Just print the parent permission form to submit at PCA and use the code ARTROCKS when checking out.
CREATION STATION – a FREE independent study opportunity
TUE-FRI, 10:30-3:30 PM, SATURDAY 12:30-3:30 PM
(NOTE: on rare occasions there are private events that preclude use of the Creation Station. If you’re traveling to PCA, call us to check, 541-278-9201)
We’ve put together a buffet of cool art materials that you can choose from. Grab a table, follow an online tutorial or just experiment and see where your curiosity takes you. From weaving kits, to needle felting, to embroidery, to painting and collage, and more – there’s sure to be something to spark your interest. No need to sign up, no tuition, just come on by!
TEEN ARTS COUNCIL
with PCA Staff
3rd FRIDAY of each month, with potential for addition days
The ART ROCKS TEENS (A.R.T.) Advisory Council provides teens an opportunity to add their voice to programming here at the P.C.A. The group meets in a variety of settings from restaurants, local attractions, and community outreach sites. Activities range from talk sessions to leading classing to trying new creative experiences. The program is totally free, all treats, meals and admissions are covered by the PCA. Bring your ideas and skill you are ready to share! Everyone is welcome, no experience required.
TEEN CLAY
with Brian Purnell
TUESDAYS, 4:00 – 5:30 PM
September 22nd- November 24th 2026 (ten sessions)
Do you have an interest in working with clay? If so, join Brian on Tuesday afternoons and learn to make both useful and artistic pottery. No experience is required. Whether or not you have a specific project in mind, already have experience, or just want to learn the basics of making hand built objects, this class is for you. Come each week and you will soon be working independently alongside your teacher. Regular weekly attendance will help you build skills and get the most from this fun class.
TEEN WHEEL POTTERY
with Hadley Marshall
THURSDAYS, 4:00 – 5:45 PM
September 24th – December 17th, 2026 (10 sessions)
no class October 1st, November 5th or November 26th
Get creative in Teen Wheel Pottery! Designed for ages 13–18 and open to all experience levels, students will learn and build skills in wheel throwing while creating mugs, bowls, cups, and more. Regular attendance is encouraged to get the most from the class.
TEEN CHARACTER DESIGN
with Jack Hess
TUESDAY, 4:00-5:30
October 6th- November 3rd (5 sessions)
Bring your imagination to life in Teen Character Design! In this creative class, teens will learn the basics of designing memorable characters, from developing personalities and expressions to exploring poses, outfits, and unique visual styles. Whether you love drawing or are just getting started, this class is a fun place to experiment, build skills, and create characters of your own.
TEEN STAMP MAKING WORKSHOP
with Jack Hess
SATURDAY, 1:00 – 2:30 PM
October 3rd, 2026
Get creative and make your own custom stamps! In this hands-on workshop, teens will learn the basics of stamp making and create unique designs they can use to decorate cards, artwork, journals, and more. No Experience Required.
TEEN OPEN STUDIO- a FREE drop-in class!
with PCA Staff
WEDNESDAYS, 4:00 – 5:00 PM
September 30th- December 2nd 2026 (ten sessions)
Teens ages 13 – 18 now have full access to the PCA’s art materials and studio space! Inspire and explore art independently through open-ended drawing, painting, collage, or anything else your imagination comes up with! The emphasis is on creative learning and peer connection through art making.
BEGINNING GUITAR WITH CHARLIE (ages 16+)
with Charlie Herrington
WEDNESDAYS, 6:30 – 7:30 PM
October 7th- December 9th 2026 (ten sessions with a friends and family concert on the last day)
Learn basic guitar skills and build a foundation for playing all kinds of music, from country to blues to rock and roll. You’ll start with the glory of G-C-D and simple scales and basic rhythms. Eventually you’ll work your way up to playing some simple solos. No guitar experience necessary. Please bring a guitar – visit Pendleton Music Co. for affordable instrument rentals. FREE! Register online!
CONTINUED GUITAR WITH CHARLIE (ages 16+)
with Charlie Herrington
WEDNESDAYS, 7:30 – 8:30 PM
October 7th- December 9th 2026 (ten sessions with a friends and family concert on the last day)
If you’re already familiar with playing the guitar and are looking to further enhance your skill set, this is the class for you. Join Charlie as he continues to teach the art of all things guitar. Returning students are welcome. Please bring a guitar – visit Pendleton Music Co. for affordable instrument rentals.
JAM NIGHT- FREE DROP-IN
with Charlie Herrington
SECOND TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH
7:00 – 8:00 PMA casual and fun get together for musicians of all experience levels. Blues, rock, country, pop and more. We’ll experiment with a variety of instruments. Guitars, mandolin, bongos…bring what you have and join us for an awesome jam session.
BIRD HOUSE PAINTING
With Racheal Wilmer
FRIDAY, 3:00- 4:30
July 10th or August 28th 2026
This class will be offered twice. Choose the week that works best for you!
This all-ages class offers a relaxed, creative space for participants to paint and decorate a wooden birdhouse in their own unique style. Emphasis is placed on imagination and personal expression, with a wide variety of paints and materials available to explore. Families, friends, and individuals are welcome to create at their own pace in a fun, supportive environment. Each participant will take home a one-of-a-kind birdhouse ready to display or enjoy outdoors.
$25 per student- Free for Teens
BEGINNING CROCHET: HAT WORKSHOP
with Eleanor Stuart
SATURDAY,1:00 – 3:00 PM
September 26th 2026 (one session)
Learn the basics of crochet while creating your own beginner-friendly hat! This workshop will introduce foundational crochet skills while teaching you about yarn weights, hook sizes, and fiber types. You’ll learn essential techniques to help you feel confident continuing your crochet journey beyond the class. All materials are provided. Class size is limited to 5 participants to ensure plenty of individual instruction. No crochet experience necessary.
$45 MEMBERS/$50 NON-MEMBERS
BEGINNING CROCHET: COASTER WORKSHOP
with Eleanor Stuart
SATURDAY, 1:00 – 3:00 PM
October 17th 2026 (one session)
Learn the foundations of crochet while creating a set of handmade coasters! This beginner-friendly workshop will teach basic crochet techniques along with the essential knowledge of yarn weights, hook sizes, and fiber types. You’ll build skills and confidence while completing a fun and practical project. All materials are provided. Class size is limited to 5 participants to ensure plenty of individual instruction. No crochet experience necessary.
$45 MEMBERS/$50 NON-MEMBERS
BEGINNING CROCHET: MARKET BAG WORKSHOP
with Eleanor Stuart
SATURDAY, 1:00 – 3:00 PM
October 24th, November 7th 2026 (2 session)
Create your own reusable crochet market bag while learning the fundamentals of crochet! This beginner-friendly workshop will introduce basic stitches and techniques while helping you understand yarn weights, hook sizes, and fiber types. You’ll leave with a finished project and the foundational knowledge needed to continue exploring crochet. All materials are provided. Class size is limited to 5 participants to ensure plenty of individual instruction. No crochet experience necessary.
$50 MEMBERS/$55 NON-MEMBERS
BUILD A BIRD: ceramics workshop
With Sage Hope
SATURDAYS, 1:00-3:30
October 10th and October 24th (two sessions)
Join visiting artist Sage Hope for BUILD A BIRD, a hands-on ceramics workshop where you’ll explore the art of hand building clay bird sculptures. Over two sessions, you’ll learn Sage’s techniques for creating expressive, nature-inspired pieces, discover the beauty of local bird species, and craft your own unique clay bird or decorative wall hanging. All materials and firing are provided — just bring your curiosity and creativity!
$45 MEMBERS / $50 NON-MEMBERS / free for teens
BUILD A BEAVER: Ceramics Workshop
With Sage Hope
SATURDAYS, 1:00–3:30 PM
November 7th & November 21st (Two Sessions)
Join visiting artist Sage Hope for BUILD A BEAVER, a hands-on ceramics workshop where you’ll explore the art of handbuilding clay while creating your own charming beaver-inspired spoon rest. Across two sessions, Sage will guide you through the process of shaping, detailing, and finishing your piece, drawing inspiration from the beaver and its important connection to our local waterways and landscapes. Whether you’re an experienced ceramic artist or trying handbuilding for the first time, you’ll have the opportunity to learn new techniques and create a functional piece of art to take home. All materials provided!
$45 Members /$50 Non-Members /Free for Teens
