Reconnect with your creativity through Summer Camp at the Stevie, a five-part workshop series that invites adults (age 16+) to experience art making through the senses. Set in the Wende Museum’s Stevie Artist Residence garden oasis, each Sunday workshop explores one of the five senses through a different creative practice, from watercolor painting and basket weaving to ceramics, botanical incense making, and traditional food preservation.

Inspired by the spirit of summer camp, the series encourages participants to slow down, notice the world around them, and engage with natural materials in meaningful ways. Together, we’ll observe the colors of the landscape, listen through handmade instruments, weave with plant fibers, create fragrances from botanicals, and preserve seasonal ingredients, discovering how creativity can deepen our relationship to the environment and one another.

Designed for artists and beginners alike, Summer Camp at the Stevie celebrates making by hand as a pathway to mindfulness, curiosity, and community. Whether you attend a single workshop or join us for the full series, you’ll leave with new skills, meaningful connections, and a renewed appreciation for the beauty found in the natural world.

What is the Stevie?

Tucked away on the southwestern side of the Wende Museum’s Community Center, the Stevie is a “tiny house” turned creative outpost. Surrounded by palms and desert landscaping, it serves as both an artist residency space and an intimate venue for programs, gatherings, and experimental events on its expansive outdoor deck. The Stevie was made possible by a transformative contribution from Steve and Jadwiga Markoff.

Workshop Description: SOUND | Ocarina Handbuilding Workshop with Peyton Ellis

Have you ever wanted to make your own instrument? In this workshop, you will be able to customize and handcraft your own personalized ocarina-flute. Participants will use air-dry clay to sculpt and form their instruments into whatever shape they desire while exploring the resonance and airflow of their pieces. While crafting these ocarinas, you will be encouraged to channel your childlike wonder and invite playfulness while practicing the art of sound sculptures. All materials will be provided.

Artist Bio

Peyton Ellis (They/Them) studied music, ceramics, and performance art at California Institute of the Arts and graduated with a BFA in Experimental Pop Music. With 8+ years of experience in music and ceramics, Peyton specializes in wheel throwing, handbuilding, installations, and the physics of sound. Peyton’s interdisciplinary talents in physical and auditory art have supported their practice of experimenting with sound sculptures through performance and recording.