How did masterpiece Begin?
Masterpiece came out of a need seen by Gordon and Sherrie Rogers and Tim and Nancy Botts. Both of these couples had some very creative kids, and when those kids were in high school, they recognized that there were church camps and sports camps but there were few arts camps. So, eventually, they came up with the idea of a summer arts camp called Masterpiece.
What programs does Masterpiece offer?
Our main program is the Masterpiece Summer Projects, which are our week-long summer camps, which are currently held during the summer months.
What role does faith play at Masterpiece Camp?
The orthodox beliefs of the Apostle’s Creed and a deep commitment to the life-transforming power of the gospel of Jesus Christ is the foundation of every aspect of Masterpiece. Our daily schedule is a reflection of our desire to honor our Creator God and to see the gifts he has given to his children to be cultivated, to flourish, and to point to his goodness, creativity, and love.
How can I volunteer to help Masterpiece?
Depending on the year we may or may not need volunteers to help at camp or on various aspects of our ministry. Please contact Jill Walser if you are interested in serving with Masterpiece.
Who is eligible to attend Masterpiece camps?
Our camp is offered to high school students who are rising 9th through 12th grades.
What are the dates for the Summer 2025 Camps?
June 15-21, 2025 at Cumberland University in Lebanon, TN
July 13-19 at Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL (not a function of Wheaton College)
Registration will remain open until we have reached capacity.
When is the registration deadline?
Early Bird Registration Rate is available through December 31, 2024! Camp fills up fast, so the earlier you register the better.
How much does the Masterpiece Ministries summer camp cost?
The cost for camp, including the $100 registration fee, is $775. (NOTE: If you register by December 31, 2024, you will receive a $50 early registration discount!)
Does Masterpiece Ministries offer financial aid for students who can’t afford camp?
Yes. We use part of our funding to help families with various levels of financial support when needed. Please contact Jill Walser with your specific need.
How big is the camp?
We enroll only 40 students per camp. Group dynamics, the size of the facility that we use, but most importantly, the quality of relationships we nurture within our camp community have influenced this decision.
What does the week at camp look like?
For a student’s perspective of a day at camp, please read the thoughts of our camper Olivia Kersey.
Our camp is a one week experience—Sunday afternoon through Saturday noon. Our camp schedule includes many activities, but the students choose one primary Studio in which they will spend approximately 15 hours during the week. With only 40 students we have chosen to offer 5 studios per camp week. Studios could be Visual Art, Songwriting, Drama/Improvisation, Creative Writing, Dance, Film or Photography. Read below for more on what studios we offer each year and how a student decides which to take. The rest of camp is filled with our wonderfully unique Collaborative Project experience; hearing from guest speakers who share on the integration of Art & Faith; afternoon workshops; community & personal worship; Open Mic opportunities; and a host of other fun opportunities with friends.
What Studios/concentrations does Masterpiece offer for summer camp?
Drama/Improvisation, Songwriting, and Visual Arts (Drawing/Painting) are our core studios. To these we add Creative Writing, Dance and additional forms of Visual Arts like Photography, Film and Film Animation – varying through the years. So each year the offerings look a bit different depending on our students and our staff.
June 15-21 | Cumberland University in Lebanon, TN
Studios Offered: Creative Writing, Drama, Film/Photography, Songwriting, Visual Art
July 13-19 | Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL*
*not a function of Wheaton College
Studios Offered: Creative Writing, Dance, Drama, Songwriting, Visual Art
How do I choose a Studio?
Students are asked their preference before camp but do not actually commit to a Studio until they meet staff and hear more about the studio content on the first night of camp.
What is the camp address?
Cumberland University, 1 Cumberland Drive, Lebanon, TN 37087
Wheaton College, 501 College Avenue, Wheaton, IL 60187
How should I travel to camp?
Some students drive to camp with their parents and some students fly to camp! If flying, our Travel Coordinator, Amy Hogan, will help families choose a flight for their student that arrives at one of the local airports. Masterpiece staff will meet students at the airport and transport them to camp. Registration begins at 2pm on Sunday, June 15, 2025 for Cumberland University, and at 2pm on Sunday, July 13, 2025 for Wheaton College.
When do I pick up my child from camp?
Camp ends on Saturday, June 21 or July 19, 2025. Family and friends are invited to arrive at camp on Saturday at 10am to participate in the final day of camp. It’s a day of celebration as families will be able to see all their student accomplished at camp in the Collaborative Project and hear a little more about their week at Masterpiece. Afterwards, a light lunch is provided for everyone. If you are unable to attend, that is ok! Your student will be taken to the airport for their flight home on Saturday afternoon or evening.
My child has food allergies. Will he or she be accommodated by the camp, or do I need to send food?
At Masterpiece Camp we always make every effort to accommodate food allergies. Please indicate your student’s specific dietary needs on the registration form or contact Amy Hogan if you have questions.
What should I pack?
Packing Lists for camp will be posted as we get closer to camp season.