Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.4.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Junior Center of Art and Science coming soon... East Bay Creative Lab ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://juniorcenter.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [STEAM FAIR - A Free Family Day](https://juniorcenter.org/steam-fair/) - Saturday, April 18th 11 AM - 2 PM A Hands-On Family Celebration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math 🔬⚙️🎨 Join us for a day of curiosity, creativity, and discovery at the Junior Center of Art and Science / East Bay Creative Lab! This hands-on community event invites children ages 5–13 and their families to - [Feathered Field Sketch](https://juniorcenter.org/feather-field-sketch/) - Saturday, April 11th from 10:30 AM - 12 PM Get to know your wild neighbors — the winged ones! In this hands-on class, we’ll explore the fascinating birds of Lake Merritt and Oakland, from elegant egrets to bold black cormorants and busy little songbirds. A local naturalist will introduce us to who’s who in our - [Scrappy Birds Collage](https://juniorcenter.org/scrappy-birds-collage/) - Saturday, March 14th from 10am-12pm OPEN Studio: Scrappy Birds and Recycled Collage Creatures! Ideal for ages 6+ Come visit us for our monthly open studio! Turn cardboard, paper scraps, and recycled treasures into bold, beautiful birds. In this imaginative mixed-media class, young artists will design and build their own one-of-a-kind birds using recycled materials. We’ll - [Clothing Swap & Block Printing](https://juniorcenter.org/clothing-swap-print/) - Saturday, March 14th from 1-4pm Teens & Adult clothing only please Join us for a creative, community-centered clothing swap and upcycling workshop. Bring gently used clothing to trade, then transform your "new" finds into one-of-a-kind pieces at our block printing station. Why We Swap The fashion industry is responsible for roughly 8–10% of global carbon - [CREATE & PROTEST](https://juniorcenter.org/create-protest/) - Saturday, April 25th 12:00 - 3:00 PM Join us for Create & Protest, a FREE hands-on workshop where art meets activism. This all-ages gathering is a chance to raise your voice, stand up for immigrant rights and free speech, and connect with others through the power of art. We’re protesting mass deportations and standing in - [STEAM Night at Franklin Elementary](https://juniorcenter.org/steam-night-at-franklin-elementary/) - Join us for STEAM Night 2024 at Franklin Elementary in Oakland, CA. STEAM is an educational approach that combines Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. STEAM is an evolution of STEM education that adds the arts to the mix. It's designed to help students develop critical thinking, creativity, and innovation skills. Here at the Junior - [What We Sow—A Trash Falcon Exhibition](https://juniorcenter.org/what-we-sow/) - One person's trash isn't just treasure—it’s a masterpiece. What We Sow invites viewers into a reimagined landscape composed of the forgotten remnants of Adams Point, Lakeside Park, and Lake Merritt. Through a lens of radical optimism, the Trash Falcons transform the discarded debris of urban life into works that are at once whimsical, provocative, and - [Opening Reception - What We Sow](https://juniorcenter.org/opening-reception-what-we-sow/) - Friday, Feb 13th from 6:30-8:30pm Opening reception of What We Sow—in collaboration with Lake Merritt's very own Trash Falcons! One person's trash isn't just treasure—it’s a masterpiece. What We Sow invites viewers into a reimagined landscape composed of the forgotten remnants of Adams Point, Lakeside Park, and Lake Merritt. Through a lens of radical optimism, the Trash Falcons transform - [Karma Cinema at The New Parkway](https://juniorcenter.org/karma-cinema-at-the-new-parkway/) - We are very excited to be chosen as The New Parkway Theater's Karma Cinema partner for the month of January! Every Wednesday in January, 20% of all movie ticket sales at the The New Parkway Theater (474 24th St, Oakland) will be donated to the Junior Center of Art and Science! Folks can chose the - [Winter Break Camp 2025](https://juniorcenter.org/winter-break-camp-2025/) - Looking for a fun and enriching way for your young creative to spend the day while you finish your holiday preparations? Join us on Monday and Tuesday, December 22 & 23 for our Winter Camp! Our 2 day camp is packed with hands-on activities that celebrate the season. Campers will explore printmaking, digital illustration, and - [Mark(her) - Artist Talk with Gericault De La Rose](https://juniorcenter.org/markher-artist-talk-with-gericault-de-la-rose/) - Friday, Jan 9th from 7-8pm In this artist talk, Gericault De la Rose delves into her ongoing CTRL + F series, a body of work that transforms the bureaucratic tools of identity into intimate, large-scale meditations on survival. Created during a moment when trans people in America cannot update the gender markers on their passports, - [The Holy T](https://juniorcenter.org/holy-t/) - The Holy T is an exhibition about transgenderism through the lens of painting and tapestry, featuring artists Gericault De La Rose and Angel Anjos. De La Rose and Anjos' artwork depicts the presence, growth, and empowerment of trans bodies, trans identity, and trans people. On view Nov 10 - Jan 23 Opening Reception Nov 14 - [Sip & Draw: Pastel Pals](https://juniorcenter.org/sip-draw-pastel-pals/) - Sept 13, 2025 • 6-9PM • 21+ • $50 – $75 sliding scale - [Animated Frights & Delights: Halloween GIFs](https://juniorcenter.org/animated-frights-delights-halloween-gifs/) - Oct 11, 2025 • 6-9PM • 21+ • $50 – $75 sliding scale - [Costume Designer's Boot Camp](https://juniorcenter.org/halloween/) - Do you love the spooky, fun, and magical spirit of Halloween? Have you ever wanted to bring a character to life, just like the amazing costume designers for your favorite movies and shows? Get ready to create your own incredible costume and be the star of the show! Join us for a spooky and spectacular - [Couture Crafting](https://juniorcenter.org/couture-crafting/) - Dec 6, 2025 • 6-9PM • 21+ • $50 – $75 sliding scale - [Costume Designer's Boot Camp](https://juniorcenter.org/costume-designers-boot-camp/) - Youth & Teen Workshop • Oct 14 & 15 • 9AM-12PM • 8-16 • $50 – $70 sliding scale - [Cabinet of Botanical Curiosities](https://juniorcenter.org/cabinet-of-botanical-curiosities/) - Adult Workshop • Nov 11 • 10AM-12:30PM • 18 & up • $40 – $60 sliding scale - [Print & Sip: Explore Gelli Printing & Mixed Media Art](https://juniorcenter.org/print-sip-explore-gelli-printing-mixed-media-art/) - Second Saturdays at the Lab • April 12 • 6-9PM • 21+ • $50 - $75 sliding scale - [Time and Place: Poetry and Bookmaking Workshop for Families](https://juniorcenter.org/time-and-place-poetry-and-bookmaking-workshop-for-families/) - Gallery Workshop • Sept 6 • 10AM-12PM • Families • $45-$70 family of 4 $60 -$90 family size more than 4 - [Home After All](https://juniorcenter.org/home-after-all/) - Gracianne Kirsch’s work in Home After All draws from their childhood spent in a rural home built by their father on a mountain top in Redwood Valley, California. The body of work meditates on an accumulation of memories of home, family, growing and changing in the rural Northern California landscape. On view July 21 - - [Why Creative Learning Works: A Parent’s Testimony from Junior Center](https://juniorcenter.org/with-your-help-71-of-families-will-receive-financial-assistance-from-junior-center/) - “My son connects with the classes and teaching artists at Junior Center in a way that he doesn’t connect with any other activity or teacher in his life.” – Leah, Dean’s mom. Maybe you can relate to Leah as a mom, or to her son Dean, and their not-so-positive experiences with traditional learning. Maybe you - [Set Ups: An Installation in Flux](https://juniorcenter.org/set-ups-an-installation-in-flux/) - As children, Luka Vergoz and their brother used to make ‘set ups’ - worlds of animals, train tracks, cars, blocks, and people. These ‘set ups’ grew quickly, sprawling across the room, on the floor, and on the furniture. They didn’t know it at the time, but this was their introduction into landscape and installation... We - [SPROUT & BLOOM](https://juniorcenter.org/sprout-bloom/) - Seeds, soil, plants, and flowers are creative materials utilized to foster healing and connectivity through the process of tending, sowing, drying, and creating. We welcome you to Sprout & Bloom, a group exhibition by Lana Williams, Sigrid Hubbell, and Alex Arzt. Join us for the opening reception on Friday, March 21st from 6:30 - 8:30pm. The - [QUEER R&R - Resistance & Resilience](https://juniorcenter.org/queer-rr-resistance-resilience/) - An art exhibition exploring the many shapes and forms of queer acts of resistance and resilience. This selection of artworks defines these acts through different mediums, concepts, and ideas. On view Saturdays 10-4 from June 9 - July 5 Opening Reception June 13th 6:30 -8:30 About the Exhibit “Queer” or queer people are not a - [Made in the East Bay: Fueling the next generation of artists, makers, and scientists](https://juniorcenter.org/madeintheeastbay/) - Rediscover the Junior Center at Made in the East Bay, an evening celebrating creativity and curiosity. This one-night fundraiser supports the Junior Center for Art and Science mission to provide a place of belonging—where creativity flourishes and every young person has the opportunity to explore, create, and experiment. Saturday, October 4, 2025, 6-9 pm at - [Winter Break Camp 2024](https://juniorcenter.org/winter-break-camp/) - Looking for a fun and enriching way for your young creative to spend the day while you finish your holiday preparations? Join us on Monday, December 23rd for our Winter Camp! Our camp is packed with hands-on activities that celebrate the season. Campers will explore printmaking, digital illustration, and 3D design, creating festive projects like - [Opening Reception: The Holy T](https://juniorcenter.org/opening-reception-the-holy-t/) - Friday, Nov 14th 6:30-8:30PM - [OUSD Winter Artist Market 2025](https://juniorcenter.org/ousd-winter-artist-market-2025/) - Friday, December 5th 2025 11am - 2pm Oakland Unified School District Visual and Performing Arts and the Junior Center for Art and Science are proud to present the fourth annual OUSD Winter Artist Market! Featuring student work from Oakland’s Arts, Entertainment, and Design high school and middle school pathways. Youth will be selling their unique - [Name our Bearded Dragon Contest!](https://juniorcenter.org/bearded-dragon-contest/) - Sept 6-Oct 4, 2025 · 10am-4pm · FREE · ALL AGES - [Celebrate Creek to Bay Day 2025 with us!](https://juniorcenter.org/creek-to-bay-day/) - Sept 20, 2025 · 10am-12pm · FREE · ALL AGES - [Wild Botanicals](https://juniorcenter.org/wild-botanicals/) - Every Saturday Sept 13 – Nov 15 • 10-11:30 AM • Ages 6-8 • $20-$30 - [After School Enrichment Fall 2025 - Class Schedule Announced!](https://juniorcenter.org/after-school-enrichment-fall-2025-class-schedule-announced/) - Fall Session 2025 Week of Sept 8 - Week of Nov 10 Create and explore with us after school! Our classes are engaging hands-on fun for young artists, makers, and inventors aged 6-13. Classes are small, student-centered experiences where youth can build skills, experiment with a variety of media, and connect with their creative selves. - [Collaboration with UC Berkeley Research Lab](https://juniorcenter.org/collaboration-with-uc-berkeley-research-lab/) - We are so excited for another fantastic year of Summer Camp. This year we have been approached by the UC Berkeley Social Origins Lab to be a partner in their research. About the Social Origins Lab (SOL) The Social Origins Lab is a developmental psychology lab at UC Berkeley led by Professor Jan Engelmann. They - [Circles & Mandalas: A Full Moon Art Workshop](https://juniorcenter.org/circles-mandalas-a-full-moon-art-workshop/) - Aug 9, 2025 • 6-9PM • 21+ • $50 – $75 sliding scale - [Time and Place: Poetry and Bookmaking Workshop for Teens](https://juniorcenter.org/time-and-place-poetry-and-bookmaking-workshop-for-teens/) - Gallery Workshop • Aug 16 • 10AM-12PM • Teens • $30-$55 sliding scale - [Artful Cards: A Digital Art Workshop](https://juniorcenter.org/artful-cards/) - July 12, 2025 • 6-9PM • 21+ • $50 – $75 sliding scale - [Express Yourself: Poster Art Workshop for Teens](https://juniorcenter.org/express-yourself-poster-art-workshop-for-teens/) - Gallery Workshop • July 12 • 10AM-12PM • Teens • FREE - [LOVELAB: Celebrating our Creative Educators](https://juniorcenter.org/lovelab-celebrating-our-creative-educators-art-exhibition/) - The Junior Center of Art and Science is celebrating our teaching artists both past and present... The Junior Center of Art and Science (JCAS) is pleased to invite you to LOVELAB, a celebration of our teaching artists both past and present for their immense contribution to our organization, student body, families, and the broader community. - [Create & Protest: Community Poster-Making Event!](https://juniorcenter.org/create-protest-community-poster-making-event/) - April 26, 2025 · 12-3pm · FREE · ALL AGES - [Tend : Share : Grow](https://juniorcenter.org/tend-share-grow/) - May 3, 2025 · 6-8PM · FREE · ALL AGES - [PROJECT UTER at the LAB](https://juniorcenter.org/project-uter-at-the-lab/) - Saturday, Feb 22, 2025 · FREE · ALL AGES - [Zen & Tonic: A Sip & Make Terrarium Workshop](https://juniorcenter.org/zen-tonic-a-sip-make-terrarium-workshop/) - May 10, 2025 • 6-9PM • 21+ • $50 - $75 sliding scale. - [Print & Sip- Linoleum Edition](https://juniorcenter.org/print-sip-linoleum-edition/) - June 14, 2025 • 6-9PM • 21+ • $50 - $75 sliding scale - [Mini Worlds: A Sip & Make Diorama Workshop](https://juniorcenter.org/second-saturdays-mini-worlds/) - Second Saturdays at the Lab • March 8 • 6-9PM • 21+ • $50 - $75 sliding scale - [Micro Bouquets: A Sprout & Bloom Workshop](https://juniorcenter.org/micro-bouquets-a-sprout-bloom-workshop/) - Gallery Workshop • April 19 • 10AM-12PM • 3 & up • $30 - $45 sliding scale - [Carpentry, Visual Arts, or Creative Technology - Register for Summer Camp today!](https://juniorcenter.org/register-for-summer-camp-today/) - CAMP JCAS 2025 1 week & 2 week full day camps from June 9 - August 15 For rising 1st-8th graders, the Junior Center of Art and Science Summer Camp (CAMP JCAS) offers full day, arts-integrated engagements for young artists, makers and thinkers. Our projects are led by professional artists and educators who inspire a - [Celebrate your birthday with us!](https://juniorcenter.org/celebrate-your-birthday-with-us/) - Book your next birthday party with Junior Center! Ideal for ages 5 - 12, our Teaching Artists lead each party through an age-appropriate project which will leave your child and their friends feeling inspired and confident in their creative abilities. Our 2 hour birthday party packages come complete with everything you need for your young - [Set It Up: A Workshop in Repurposed Materiality](https://juniorcenter.org/set-it-up-a-workshop-in-repurposed-materiality/) - Gallery Workshop • Nov 19 & Dec 7 • 10AM-2PM • All Ages • FREE Drop-in - [Afrofuturism Fashion & Art Show Fundraiser](https://juniorcenter.org/afrofuturism-fashion-art-show-fundraiser/) - Welcome to the Afrofuturism Fashion & Art Show Fundraiser! Come join us on Sat, Apr 19, 2025 at 6:00 PM at the Junior Center Of Art & Science for a night of creativity and community. REGISTER TODAY REGISTER TODAY BUY TICKETS Today Support local artists and designers while enjoying a one-of-a-kind event that celebrates diversity and imagination. Begin the night with - [In-school Residency Update - Poster Arts](https://juniorcenter.org/in-school-residency-poster-arts/) - Join JCAS Teaching Artist Zachary Sweet as he works with ARISE High schoolers on bringing their Poster Art to life! Poster Arts is a chance for students to build graphic design skills while imagining themselves working in their dream industry. Some students chose to make concert posters, while others made political posters. - [NEW! Early Childhood Enrichment Program](https://juniorcenter.org/new-early-childhood-enrichment-program/) - JCAS is pleased to introduce a new Early Childhood Enrichment program in collaboration with The Center for Early Childhood Connections (CECC). CECC provides relationship focused, culturally attuned, and collaborative educational, mental health and wellness supports starting from pregnancy through age eight, for young children and those who care for them. All classes take place at - [NEW! Pay It Forward Program](https://juniorcenter.org/pay-it-forward/) - JCAS is a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to offering equitable access to arts and science education. We serve more than 1,500 students every year and most of our students – more than 70% – receive financial assistance. You can now support our mission directly using our Pay It Forward Program. When registering your student for a - [Come See us on Saturdays!](https://juniorcenter.org/come-see-us-on-saturdays/) - Next time you're walking around Lake Merritt, stop by and say hi to us! We are now open on Saturdays from 10am - 3pm Drop-in activities available! From water colors, to animal encounters, there is always a surprise waiting for you at the Junior Center! Saturdays at the LAB Be sure to check out the - [OUSD Winter Artist Market](https://juniorcenter.org/ousd-winter-artist-market/) - Friday, December 6th 202411am - 2pm at the Junior Center of Art and Science558 Bellevue Ave. Oakland, CA Oakland Unified School District and the Junior Center for Art and Science are thrilled to present the third annual OUSD Winter Artist Market! This one-day-only event will showcase the incredible talent of student artists from Oakland High, - [YOU'RE INVITED From Ashes to Art: Reopening Fundraiser](https://juniorcenter.org/youre-invited-from-ashes-to-art-reopening-fundraiser/) - Saturday, Sept. 28 6pm at The Junior Center 558 Bellevue Ave The Junior Center has finally reopened after three years of extensive repairs from two fires. Join us on Saturday, September 28th at 6pm to celebrate our legacy and support our future programming. From Ashes to Art features a curated selection of art from local contemporary artists, all graciously donated and priced under - [RISING FROM THE ASHES: THE ROUGH EDGES LIVE FOR JCAS](https://juniorcenter.org/rising-from-the-ashesthe-rough-edges-live-for-jcas/) - RISING FROM THE ASHES:THE ROUGH EDGES LIVE FOR JCAS Join us for Rising From The Ashes; a benefit concert for the Junior Center of Art and Science (JCAS) Building Repair Fund. As many know, our treasured home on Lake Merritt has suffered damage from two fires. Your attendance and contributions will directly support the final - [Save the Date! Rising from the Ashes: Rough Edges Live for JCAS](https://juniorcenter.org/save-the-date-rising-from-the-ashes-rough-edges-live-for-jcas/) - Mark your calendars for December 16th! We are throwing a Benefit Concert w/ the Rough Edges at the Berkeley Art House. More info and tickets coming soon! - [News Updates](https://juniorcenter.org/news-updates/) - What's up with JCAS? Find out the latest updates, sign up to get our free online newsletter. - [After-school Enrichment with Junior Center this Spring](https://juniorcenter.org/after-school-enrichment-with-junior-center-this-spring/) - Spring Session 2025 Week of April 8 - Week of May 27 Create and explore with us after school! Our classes are engaging hands-on fun for young artists, makers, and inventors aged 6-16. Classes are small, student-centered experiences where youth can build skills, experiment with a variety of media, and connect with their creative selves. - [Intro to ProCreate](https://juniorcenter.org/intro-to-procreate-3-part-series/) - Youth Workshop • Sept 7, 21, 28 • 10AM-12PM • 9-13 • $75 – $125 sliding scale - [Edible Pigment Painting](https://juniorcenter.org/edible-pigment-painting/) - Teen & Adult Workshop • Sept 14 • 10AM-12:30PM • 14 & up • $30 – $75 sliding scale - [Drag Story Time + Crafting](https://juniorcenter.org/drag-storytime-crafting/) - All Ages Workshop • June 29 • 10AM-12PM • Free - [Drawing: Make, Create, and Repeat](https://juniorcenter.org/drawing-make-create-and-repeat-2/) - Teen Workshop • Aug 17 • 10AM-12PM • 12-17 • $10 – $25 sliding scale - [Rent our Space](https://juniorcenter.org/rent-our-space/) - Host your next event at The Junior Center of Art and Science Panoramic views of Lake Merritt Rent individual rooms or the entire building Discounts for non-profit partners Learn more about our space rentals. - [Sign up today! After-school Enrichment](https://juniorcenter.org/after-school-enrichment/) - Winter Session Week of JAN 13 - Week of MAR 10 Create and explore with us after school! Our classes are engaging hands-on fun for young artists, makers, and inventors aged 6-13. Classes are small, student-centered experiences where youth can build skills, experiment with a variety of media, and connect with their creative selves. All - [Living the Life of Gary](https://juniorcenter.org/living-the-life-of-gary/) - Gary is Oakland’s Junior Center for Arts and Science’s star attraction is now temporarily living at a home in West Oakland, in a habitat created especially for him by two scientists, where he is living his best life. - [WE'RE BACK!](https://juniorcenter.org/were-back/) - Welcome back! We're thrilled to be in our space again after completing the first week of camp. Seeing Bill, our legacy instructor, back in action guiding carpentry students and watching our young artists take flight has been emotional for all of us. The building is radiant with light, creativity, and the spirit of summer fun. - [Drawing: Make, Create, and Repeat](https://juniorcenter.org/drawing-make-create-and-repeat/) - Saturdays at the Lab continue with DRAWING: Make, Create, and Repeat Saturday 8/17 • 10am-12pm • Ages 12-17 • $10-25 sliding scale Drawing: Make, Create, and Repeat is a drawing class focused around the idea of repetition. The class uses repetition as a tool to learn drawing as well as a method of expression art-making. - [Intro to Procreate](https://juniorcenter.org/intro-to-procreate/) - Saturday classes are back at JCAS! Join us July 13th from 10am-12pm for Intro to Procreate Using iPads and physical art supplies, students will create their own short animated stories! Students will create physical characters using clay, paper, pencils and paints and then upload images of their creations to iPads. Once uploaded into Procreate, students - [JCAS Marred by Fires...Again.](https://juniorcenter.org/jcas-marred-by-fires-again/) - Unfortunately our wonderful Center at the Lake has suffered another fire. Don't worry though, we are still on track to continue with our Spring programming at Lotus Bloom Preschool and Summer Camps at the Rotary Nature Center, right next door to our Center! The past two years have definitely been difficult, but we are remaining - [2022 COVID-19 Updated Policies](https://juniorcenter.org/2022-covid-19-updated-policies/) - At the Junior Center, we are working hard to implement best practices to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff. We are following guidelines put forth by the Alameda County Public Health Department, the City of Oakland, the State of California, the Center for Disease Control, the federal government, and the World - [Cybele Gerachis taking over as Interim Executive Director](https://juniorcenter.org/cybele-gerachis-taking-over-as-interim-executive-director/) - The Junior Center’s Board of Directors is thrilled and delighted to announce that Cybele Gerachis, who has served as Program Director since 2017, is stepping into the role of Interim Executive Director. - [Volunteer Summer Camp Counselors Needed!](https://juniorcenter.org/volunteer-summer-camp-counselors-needed/) - Volunteer Counselors play a vital role in the success of Junior Center Summer Day Camp. They lead activities, help their campers with their projects, and ensure that each camper feels safe and integrated within his/her group as well as the larger camp experience. Be a positive role model Provide leadership, guidance and support to your group - [Old Oakland Celebrates Youth + Creativity](https://juniorcenter.org/old-oakland-celebrates-youth-creativity/) - On Saturday, April 16th we participated in the Old Oakland Celebrates Youth + Creativity Block Party presented by Civic Design Studio, E14 Gallery, and Good Good Eatz! We made tote bags and buttons with the community and promoted our upcoming summer camps. We also joined OUSD High Schools in the OUSD Student Art Showcase and - [Sip & Make Rescheduled! Buy Tickets Today!](https://juniorcenter.org/sip-make-rescheduled-buy-tickets-today/) - We will be gathering at 1528 Webster, a gorgeous co-working space in Oakland. While the event will take place outside on the veranda, we still strong encourage attendees to be vaccinated. Price of admission is on a sliding scale from $45 - $75 Price includes all materials and supplies, along with one glass of wine. - [Winter Camp: Drawing Lab Was a Blast!](https://juniorcenter.org/winter-camp-drawing-lab-was-a-blast/) - Here are some photos from Winter Camp 2021: Drawing Lab! - [Spring Break Camp: Wild Paint and Collage Was a Blast!](https://juniorcenter.org/spring-break-camp-wild-paint-and-collage-was-a-blast/) - Here are some photos from Spring Break Camp 2022: Wild Paint and Collage! - [Old Oakland Celebrates - The Holidays!](https://juniorcenter.org/old-oakland-celebrates-the-holidays/) - Join JCAS on Nov 27th for loads of holiday-themed fun, art making activities, and community sculpture! - [Old Oakland Celebrates!](https://juniorcenter.org/see-you-in-old-oakland/) - Visit JCAS at Fairyland for arts, crafts, and sometimes animals! Weds at 1:30-3:30PM. - [Fairyland Fun!](https://juniorcenter.org/fairyland-fun/) - Visit JCAS at Fairyland for arts, crafts, and sometimes animals! Weds at 1:30-3:30PM. ## Pages - [Junior Center of Art and Science | Kids Art & Science Center in Oakland](https://juniorcenter.org/) - The Junior Center of Art and Science (JCAS) cultivates curiosity and creative exploration for youth through the arts and sciences. Located in the heart of Oakland on the shores of Lake Merritt, the Center is dedicated to providing equitable access to our programs for all youth and their families throughout Oakland and the greater East Bay Area. We harness the power of creativity and experiential learning to inspire big ideas and illuminate the everyday connections between art and science. - [Residency](https://juniorcenter.org/programs/residency/) - JCAS SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS The Junior Center is proud to celebrate over 65 years of bringing quality arts and science programs to Bay Area schools and community sites. JCAS offers residencies to schools and community centers in the Bay Area in visual arts, Makerspace education, and STEAM. Our programs are designed on a foundation of arts - [Birthday](https://juniorcenter.org/birthday/) - ART PARTIES & SCIENCE CELEBRATIONS Book your next birthday party with Junior Center! Ideal for ages 5 - 12, our Teaching Artists lead each party through an age-appropriate project which will leave your child and their friends feeling inspired and confident in their creative abilities. Our 2 hour birthday party packages come complete with everything - [Donate](https://juniorcenter.org/donate/) - “My son connects with the classes and teaching artists at Junior Center in a way that he doesn’t connect with any other activity or teacher in his life.” – Leah, Dean’s mom. Why Creative Learning Works: A Parent’s Testimony from Junior Center 5,000 reasons to give to Junior Center At Junior Center of Art and - [Afterschool](https://juniorcenter.org/afterschool/) - AFTER-SCHOOL ENRICHMENT Spring Session 2026 Week of March 31 - Week of May 26 All classes take place at 558 Bellevue Ave. Oakland, CA. Create and explore with us after school! Our classes are engaging hands-on fun for young artists, makers, and inventors aged 6-13. Classes are small, student-centered experiences where youth can build skills, - [Lake Merritt Stewards Initiative](https://juniorcenter.org/lake-merritt-stewards/) - The Junior Center of Art and Science steps into exciting new role as host and convener for the Lake Merritt Stewards Initiative. For years, dozens of stewardship groups have worked on behalf of Lake Merritt - the Jewel of Oakland. If you know Lake Merritt, you know that she is as beautiful as she is only because several hundreds of - [Gallery](https://juniorcenter.org/gallery/) - The JCAS Gallery is an exhibition space dedicated to the vibrant talent of Bay Area artists, with a special focus on the intersection of art and science. We provide a platform for local creators to inspire the next generation of thinkers and makers. From immersive exhibitions to inclusive public programming, we are dedicated to keeping - [Hands-on Workshops](https://juniorcenter.org/workshops/) - HANDS-ON WORKSHOPS & FIELD TRIPS Connect to art and science in new ways with a hands-on workshop from the Junior Center, either hosted in your classroom or at our beautiful center! Each engagement includes inquiry-led group discussion and a hands on making activity led by a Junior Center instructor. All of our offerings support CA - [Saturdays the LAB](https://juniorcenter.org/saturday/) - SATURDAYS at the LAB Join us on Saturdays from 10am-4pm for free, drop-in programming at our beautiful center. Start your visit by exploring our latest gallery exhibit or enjoying sensory play and coloring in the Bellevue Room. Don’t miss our weekly highlight: a live reptile feeding every Saturday at noon! In addition to these mainstay - [Summer Camp](https://juniorcenter.org/summercamp/) - CAMP JCAS 2026 1 week & 2 week full day camps from June 8 - August 7 The Junior Center of Art and Science Summer Camp offers full day, arts-integrated engagements for young artists, makers and thinkers. Our projects are led by professional artists and educators who inspire a safe, open, and creative environment where - [Board, Staff & Faculty](https://juniorcenter.org/board-staff-faculty/) - Board, Staff & Faculty Get to Know the Junior Center Team STAFF Cybele Gerachis Executive Director Cybele has been an arts administrator, educator, and artist in the Bay Area for over 20 years. She is an Oakland based mixed media artist whose work blends abstraction and storytelling. Her creative inspiration comes from deep observation of - [New Design Template](https://juniorcenter.org/3-template-summer-camp/) - Heading H2 Heading H2 Heading H2 Heading H4 Heading H4 Heading H4 1 week & 2 week full day camps from June 5 - August 4 For rising 1st-8th graders, the Junior Center of Art and Science Summer Camp offers full day, arts-integrated engagements for young artists, makers and thinkers. Our projects are led by professional - [Impact](https://juniorcenter.org/rising-from-the-ashes/) - OUR IMPACT At the heart of our mission is the belief that creativity is a combination of courage, imagination, compassion, and curiosity. Through our programs, we have seen how arts and science education builds resilience and empathy and supports the expression of complex ideas and robust collaboration. IMPACT BEYOND MEASURE “One of my favorite moments - [Who We Are](https://juniorcenter.org/about-us/) - MISSION The Junior Center of Art and Science (JCAS) cultivates curiosity and creative exploration for youth through the arts and sciences. Located in the heart of Oakland on the shores of Lake Merritt, the Center is dedicated to providing equitable access to our programs for all youth and their families throughout Oakland and the greater - [Accessibility at the Center](https://juniorcenter.org/accessibility-at-the-center/) - ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT At the Junior Center of Art and Science, we believe creativity and exploration should be accessible to everyone. We are committed to providing inclusive and welcoming experiences—both online and in person—for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. DIGITAL ACCESSIBILITY We are actively working to ensure our website is accessible to individuals with - [Rent](https://juniorcenter.org/rent/) - RENT OUR SPACE Host your next event at The Junior Center of Art and Science Panoramic views of Lake Merritt Rent individual rooms or the entire building Discounts for non-profit partners DOWNLOAD RENTAL INFORMATION DOWNLOAD RENTAL INFORMATION DOWNLOAD RENTAL INFORMATION ROOMS AVAILABLE: Night Heron Room $140 general/$100 non-profit per hour - Capacity: 45 people Access - [Employment - Science](https://juniorcenter.org/employment-science/) - START A CAREER WITH US STEAM/MAKER Instructor Position Position Overview The Junior Center’s mission is to cultivate curiosity and creative exploration through the arts and sciences. Located in the heart of Oakland on the shores of Lake Merritt, we aim to serve all youth throughout Oakland and beyond. We value the necessity of equity and - [We're Outside](https://juniorcenter.org/were-outside/) - WE'RE OUTSIDE Community Events Calendar We love partnering with organizations and our community members to put on fantastic events, festivals, and experiences. Learn more about our upcoming collaborations below. - [SPRING BREAK CAMP](https://juniorcenter.org/spring-break-camp/) - SPRING BREAK CAMP Spend Spring Break with us! Our Spring Break Camp 2025 is packed with hands-on activities that celebrate the season. Campers will explore nature, environmental science, digital illustration, and 3D design through two unique programs designed to spark creativity, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for the natural world! Whether your child is an - [Get Involved!](https://juniorcenter.org/getinvolved/) - GET INVOLVED Our volunteers help make our world go round! We are currently looking for volunteers to help out with future community events in Oakland, CA. Opportunities are flexible. Fill out form today - [EARLY CHILDHOOD](https://juniorcenter.org/early-childhood/) - EARLY CHILDHOOD ENRICHMENT JCAS is pleased to introduce a new Early Childhood Enrichment program in collaboration with The Center for Early Childhood Connections (CECC). CECC provides relationship focused, culturally attuned, and collaborative educational, mental health and wellness supports starting from pregnancy through age eight, for young children and those who care for them. All classes - [News & Events](https://juniorcenter.org/news-events/) - [Birthdays & Space Rental](https://juniorcenter.org/programs/birthdaysandspacerental/) - BIRTHDAY PARTIES The Junior Center offers several birthday party packages that include a hands-on project led by a Junior Center instructor, access to our Play Space and Animal Room, and cake and gift time. (Guests must set-up and clean up for cake and gift time). All materials and supplies for hands-on project are included, families - [z.defunct. 2020After School Classes](https://juniorcenter.org/classes-and-camps/) - "AFTER SCHOOL" CLASSESVIRTUAL CLASSES with JCAS Experiment. Play. Make new friends. All from the comfort of home! REGISTER HERE We've taken all the best parts of an after school experience and created a program that can be enjoyed from the comfort of home. What will JCAS classes look and feel like? As always, at the - [Volunteer](https://juniorcenter.org/volunteer-summer-camp-counselors-needed/) - CAMP JCAS VOLUNTEER COUNSELORS Volunteer Counselors play a vital role in the success of CAMP JCAS. They lead activities, help their campers with their projects, and ensure that each camper feels safe and integrated within his/her group as well as the larger camp experience. We are looking for students (high school or college) who are - [Employment - ART](https://juniorcenter.org/employment/) - START A CAREER WITH US Junior Center of Art and ScienceSeeking Part-Time Educators (in Art or Science) Position Overview The Junior Center’s mission is to cultivate curiosity and creative exploration through the arts and sciences. Located in the heart of Oakland on the shores of Lake Merritt, we aim to serve all youth throughout Oakland - [Pocket Size](https://juniorcenter.org/pocket-size/) - As many know, our beautiful home on Lake Merritt has suffered damage from two fires. As we plan to move back into our home, we are are excited to not only repair but also expand what we can offer at the Junior Center. Pocket Size is not only a benefit show supporting our building repair - [Student Gallery](https://juniorcenter.org/students-gallery/) - [1. TEMPLATE After-School Classes](https://juniorcenter.org/in-person-classes/) - WINTER AFTER-SCHOOL CLASSES Sept. 9 - Nov. 10 Create and explore with us after-school! Our classes are engaging hands-on fun for young artists, makers, and inventors aged 6-13. Classes are small, student-centered experiences where youth can build skills, experiment with a variety of media, and connect with their creative selves. register today Classes Offered: Carpentry - [Summer Camp Coming Soon](https://juniorcenter.org/summer-camp-coming-soon/) - SUMMER CAMP 2023 June 5th to August 4th ONE WEEK ART & SCIENCE CAMPS: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM TWO WEEK CARPENTRY CAMPS: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM AFTERCARE AVAILABLE FROM 3:00 - 4:00 PM ONE WEEK ART & SCIENCE CAMPS: $450 - $600 SLIDING SCALE TWO WEEK CARPENTRY CAMPS: $1000 - $1300 SLIDING SCALE - [2. TEMPLATE Break Camp](https://juniorcenter.org/thanksgiving-break-camp/) - Thanksgiving Break Camp art around the world 11/21-11/23, 9:00 AM-1:00 PMAges 8-10 , $150-$350 Join us for Thanksgiving break camp with Teaching Artist Rachel Anne Palacios. Art Around The World: using a variety of materials and concepts students will adventure through the rich world of art making from Otomi inspired Papel Amate Art, Repujado/Mexican Tin Art - [2. TEMPLATE Break Camp](https://juniorcenter.org/programs/winter-break-camp/) - Join us this Winter Break! winter Break Art Camp 12/19-12/23, 9:00 AM-3:00 PMAges 7-10 , $400-$600 Join us for Winter Break Camp! Throughout the week, campers will create 2D and 3D sculptural projects using a variety of media, including painting, hand-building with clay, and found objects! Projects will incorporate marbling, spin art, paper making and more! - [Become A Member](https://juniorcenter.org/membership/) - Click here to join Join the FamilyBecome A Member Today Your support through membership helps us to expand our reach through our classes, workshops, and community programs. Members receive unlimited admission all year long, member discounts, and more. INDIVIDUAL$35 One year admission for visiting hours for up to 2 people (example: one child and one - [Field Trips & Workshops](https://juniorcenter.org/programs/field-trips/) - HOST US IN YOUR CLASSROOM Connect to art, science, nature and technology in new ways with a hands-on workshop from the Junior Center. Workshops can take place as a classroom experience at your school.Our workshops are standards aligned and support CA Common Core Standards, CA Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and CA Visual and Performing - [Virtual JCAS](https://juniorcenter.org/virtual-jcas-3/) - Create and Explore with us from the comfort of your own home. We’re offering several ways to connect online – make new friends while getting creative at home. Virtual classes are led by professional teaching artists and science educators who inspire a warm, open and creative environment where youth feel encouraged to take risks, explore, - [Online Resources](https://juniorcenter.org/jcas-online-resources/) - Looking for some fun right now? Check out below for Gary's YouTube channel, fun projects with JCAS instructor Miss Tammy, and more! Gary's YouTube Channel Thanks to some friends of the Junior Center, Gary has been happily vacationing in a backyard oasis right here in Oakland, CA. If you miss visiting Gary at the center - ["After School" Virtual Classes with JCAS](https://juniorcenter.org/after-school-classes-virtual-classes-with-jcas/) - Experiment. Play. Make new friends. All from the comfort of home! We've taken all the best parts of an after school experience and created a program that can be enjoyed from the comfort of home. REGISTER What will JCAS classes look and feel like? As always, at the heart of our class experience is a - [JCAS Out-of-School Classes](https://juniorcenter.org/jcas-out-of-school-classes/) - Read below for our class offerings this Spring and click on the image to register today. Virtual JCAS classes will be held online using Zoom. Once registered - you will be sent a link and instructions to prepare for your first class.All classes take place once a week beginning the week of April 13 and - [JCAS Play Dates](https://juniorcenter.org/jcas-play-dates/) - JCAS PLAYDATES are a fun way to create and explore with us from the comfort of your own home. Designed for creative explorers of all ages - Join us via Zoom for story time, music circles, engaging art projects, check ins with our animals and more! REGISTER HERE REGISTER FOR PLAYDATE HERE - [Our Programs](https://juniorcenter.org/programs/) - CLASSES AT THE CENTER FIELD TRIPS & WORKSHOPS SCHOOL & COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP BIRTHDAYS & SPACE RENTALS OUR PROGRAMS The Junior Center offers a variety of hands-on art and science programs and experiences including after-school classes and workshops, school field trips to our center, and satellite programs at your school or community site. All of our programs - [Quarterly Classes and Camps](https://juniorcenter.org/programs/programs-quarterly-classes/) - CLASSES AT THE CENTER The Junior Center offers hands-on, exploratory arts and science programs for youth ages 5 - 14 years old. Learners investigate arts and science concepts through experimentation, problem-solving and hands-on making. Class Fees and our Sliding ScaleThe cost to run our programs is approximately $260 per student.The Junior Center aims to make - [Welcome to the Junior Center team...](https://juniorcenter.org/welcome-to-the-team/) ## Categories - [Community News](https://juniorcenter.org/category/community-news/) - [Events](https://juniorcenter.org/category/events/) - [News](https://juniorcenter.org/category/news/) - [Gallery](https://juniorcenter.org/category/gallery/) - [Saturdays](https://juniorcenter.org/category/saturdays/) - [Fundraising](https://juniorcenter.org/category/fundraising/) ## Tags - [Front Page](https://juniorcenter.org/tag/frontpage/) - [Exhibit](https://juniorcenter.org/tag/exhibit/) - [Gallery](https://juniorcenter.org/tag/gallery/) - [All Ages](https://juniorcenter.org/tag/allages/) - [Youth](https://juniorcenter.org/tag/youth/) - [Adult](https://juniorcenter.org/tag/adult/) - [Teen](https://juniorcenter.org/tag/teen/) - [Second Saturday](https://juniorcenter.org/tag/second-saturday/)