Hear ye, hear ye! The medieval-themed Wisconsin 4-H Arts Camp 2025 was a triumphant celebration of the arts in October. Nearly 140 intrepid artist-campers in grades 6-8, counselors, and adult guides journeyed to the shores of the mighty Wisconsin River at Fort Upham Woods. During two days of immersive Expressive Arts exploration, campers danced, sang, and experimented with their artistic sparks.

Youth counselors — including 4-H Arts Ambassadors — prepared a bounty of activities to engage campers in this grand artistic quest of plundering and pillaging the depths of creativity. Drawing, painting, theater, dance, culinary arts, music, and photography broadened the young artists’ horizons.

Campers studied historical cathedrals and designed their own cathedral windows on ancient compact discs. Others told stories of their family lineages by creating collages and crests. Some campers penned and performed original plays filled with mirth, merriment, and the occasional tragedy.

At the Medieval Makerspace, brave camper-artists shared their talents in instrument-playing, friendship bracelet-making, painting, and other fine crafts.

Though the air was thick and humid as a midsummer’s eve, campers’ spirits soared. Echoes of “Arts Camp! Arts Camp! It’s the place to be!” rang through the high pines and across the wide waters. 

The campfire burned bright. Tales were told and camaraderie flourished as campers shouted loud enough to stir the ancestors — or at least startle a passing traveler on the river.

Acts of valor were many, as counselors shepherded young artists and helped them find their sparks. Some campers were even heard to cry, “We want more!” And more they shall have.

For when the long grass begins to yellow and the northern breeze returns — October 2026 — 4-H Arts Campers will meet again. They will join in more artistic expression and companionship on a new quest to discover creativity within this fellowship of 4-H arts adventurers.