The Hays Public Library is proud to partner with the Hays Arts Council with more opportunities for creativity, exploration, and fun this summer!

Our 2026 programs offer something for everyone—featuring classes and workshops in both the visual and performing arts. Young artists can dive into experiences like painting, theatre & music, guitar lessons, and hands-on creative workshops designed to spark imagination and build skills.

Programs:

Art Around the World (Ages 5-13)

Explore cultural traditions, folk art, and storytelling from around the world in this creative, hands-on class! Participants will learn about traditional patterns, symbols, and stories from different cultures and use them as inspiration for their own artwork. By combining ideas and styles from various countries, participants will create colorful, original pieces while building an appreciation for global art and creativity. Register for the June 29 session here.

Exploring Nature Through Art (Ages 5-13)
Discover the beauty of the natural world through art in this exploratory, hands-on class. Participants will observe patterns, textures, colors, and forms found in nature and use them as inspiration for creative expression. From plants and landscapes to light, movement, and seasonal changes, participants will learn how artists interpret and respond to the environment around them.

Depending on the weather, students may have the opportunity to spend time outdoors, drawing inspiration directly from nature itself. This class encourages curiosity, observation, and imagination while fostering a deeper connection to the world around us. Register for the July 6 session here.

Art & Mathematics: Tessellation Designs Inspired by M.C. Escher (Ages 8-12)

Explore how art and math work together by creating tessellations—repeating shapes that fit together without gaps or overlaps. After looking at the work of M. C. Escher, students will see how simple shapes can turn into creative, interlocking designs. Using basic ideas like repeating, flipping, and rotating shapes, students will design their own tessellation pattern. This lesson builds problem-solving skills while encouraging creativity and imagination. Register for the June 8th session here.

Beads & Bangles (Two age groups: Ages 5-8, Ages 9-13)

Fun with simple jewelry projects -participants will make beaded bracelets & necklaces, create from unexpected items, make beaded key chains, & more! Registration links can be found below.
June 22nd Age 5-8
June 22nd Age 9-13
July 20th Age 5-8
July 20th Age 9-13

Summer Makers Workshop (Ages 6-11)

Participants will have fun with a variety of great summer themed arts & craft projects using wood, paper, & recycled materials. watercolor, collage, printmaking, crafts and more will provide participants with some summer fun & creativity. Registration required by the Wednesday prior for each Friday session. View the online calendar here to register.

Watercolor Basics (Ages 9-13)

Exploration of watercolor, working in traditional methods, trying some new things, all inspired by famous artists! Interchangeable themes depending on the week. Interchangeable themes depending on the week. Register for the June 15th session here. Register for the July 13th session here.