UNO Drop-in Art Club

Founded in 2022, by community members, Deb Jones and Judy Turgeon, the UNO Drop-in Art Club was created as a casual, fun weekly event where local youth could drop in and have fun making friends and connections while creating a weekly art project. Art Club offers a supportive environment where young artists can experiment with various media, techniques, and styles. From painting and drawing to sculpture and mixed media, there’s something for everyone to explore. In its first year, Deb and Judy led a group of between 8 and 14 children each week in unique art projects with new themes and focuses each week. It was a huge success thanks to their passion for both the children and creativity. 

In 2025, the program evolved into a partnership with the Clark Art Institute and MASS MoCA, continuing to offer this free weekly art program throughout the summer months. Staff from all three organizations have guided kids through hands-on projects—from clay sculpture and origami to collage and self-portraiture—often inspired by ongoing exhibitions at the museums, as partners rotated facilitation of the program each week.

Now in 2026, the Clark Art Institute is expanding the popular summer program into a weekly, 50-week program thanks to a new two-year grant from the W.L.S. Spencer Foundation.

Starting Wednesday, October 7, 2026, the club reopens its doors at the UNO Community Center (157 River St., North Adams) with extended hours every week from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Now, with leadership from the Clark, this grant will allow the program to grow, not only with expanded hours and a year-round schedule, but to also support a paid intern to lead the weekly activities.

Additional benefits of the grant: The Clark will provide rides directly from the UNO Community Center so participants can attend major community events, including First Sundays Free and the annual Community Day. Youth will also take field trips to the Clark, MASS MoCA, and neighboring arts venues across the region.