FAQs

Interested in learning the inside scoop about the MAA? Read on!

So what’s this Academy all about anyway?

First and foremost, it’s about you! The MAA was created in 2020 to help fill a vital need for arts education opportunities geared toward high school-aged artists throughout the midwest and beyond! From July 16-23, 50, 14-18-year-old students will descend upon the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire campus for a weeklong creative collaboration. With beautiful Eau Claire as your backdrop, you’ll work closely alongside world-renowned instructors and artists in one of five disciplines: dance, theater, music, art, or writing. Additionally, you will also experiment in various other artistic disciplines as well! By week’s end, we’ll work together to create a collaborative showcase to be performed for a live audience!

Who’s it for?

It’s for anyone who’s ever fallen in love with a song, a story, a painting, a dance, or a play. Specifically, It’s for 14-18-year-old artists who are passionate about experiencing art in all its forms—including creating it! You needn’t be “the best” artist to apply; simply someone excited to learn more! Our Academy is based on the idea that art is at its best when it’s shared. As such, we’ll be working together to collectively hone our crafts.

How much does it cost?

The cost (including seven nights dual lodging on the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire campus, meals, extracurricular activities, art supplies, course work, and instruction with our talented instructors) is $670. However, thanks to our generous sponsors, some of our participants will pay the reduced rate of $335. Priority for this scholarship will be given to students with financial need. Also, if you prefer to commute, we can accommodate that, too (cost: $570; $335 with a scholarship). Want a single room? No problem! We got you covered for an additional fee.

Can you tell me more about the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire campus and the city of Eau Claire?

We thought you’d never ask! Here’s a virtual tour of the UW-Eau Claire campus, a video on our wonderful arts-infused city. You’ll spend the majority of time on the UW-Eau Claire campus—consistently voted one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful campuses—while also exploring Eau Claire, a “top 10 best college town” according to College Gazette. Hailed as an “outdoorsy cultural mecca” by Time Magazine , Eau Claire is home to a transformative downtown, which boasts fantastic art galleries, a thriving literary scene, an impressive comedy showcase, and too many talented musicians to count. Get ready to experience it all!

How do I apply?

It couldn’t be easier! Beginning January 1, submit your online application, which asks for a bit of biographical info (name, school, contact info, etc.), a 500-word short answer, a creative sample of your art, and a recommendation form from a mentor or teacher. For more details, click here and scroll down! Deadline is February 1! Space is limited! If you have any questions, drop us a note at info@midwestartistacademy.org

How can I learn more?

Great question! For starters, check out our website and/or follow the Midwest Artist Academy on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube (and occasionally…) TikTok. Last but not least, subscribe to our occasional newsletter by typing your email address into the “Subscribe” box on our homepage.

Who teaches the courses?

Only some of the finest practicing artists and professors from across the country. Our mission is to use our collective knowledge, experience, and education to guide you toward your own creative goals during your time with the Academy and beyond. We’re also here to answer questions, navigate the great unknown, serve as a resource, and help you envision a practical and passion-fueled future in the arts. Here at the MAA, our goal is to create the conditions that allow all our participants grow outward as artists, inward as people, and to nurture fellow artists along the way. Click here to learn about our faculty.

Can I apply with a friend?

Applying with a friend is a marvelous idea! We understand that it can be a bit scary to attend a program such as this without having a trusted friend by your side. The easy fix, of course, is to encourage a trusted friend to join you! While we cannot guarantee that all friends will be accepted, we encourage all applications!

Can I commute rather than stay the full week on campus?

You bet! (And at a slightly reduced rate). When you apply, simply click the appropriate box.

Why me?

Because we believe in the power of young artists like you. Moreover, with your help, we can work together to define the culture of this program for years to come! If you’ve ever wanted to be a part of something larger, this is it! Whether you’re a future composer, Broadway dancer, or children’s book author, we want to provide you a place to hone your craft alongside your equally committed peers. Simply put, the Midwest Artist Academy hopes to provide three major components for your artistic growth: a space to be creative, a chance to be collaborative, and an opportunity to gain confidence in your craft. 

We hope this has answered a few of your burning questions! If you find yourself waking up in the middle of the night needing more answers, we’re here for you (and probably also awake)! Feel free to email us at info@midwestartistacademy.org.

For other information on the courses, application, faculty and more, visit our website.