Open Space for the Visual Arts

Open Space is an immersive summer art program hosted by Hastings College and housed in the state-of-the-art Jackson Dinsdale Art Center. This program is specifically designed for rising seniors and juniors who plan to study art at the college level.

Open Space participants who are rising seniors have the opportunity to be selected for the 2027 Jackson Scholars Program. The Jackson Scholars Program provides an all-expenses-paid opportunity to attend Hastings College as an art major.

The scholarship covers 100% of tuition, room and board, and general fees for four years, along with professional enrichment opportunities.

Open Space participants who do not receive a Jackson Scholars offer will instead be awarded a top art scholarship to attend Hastings College.

Note that while rising juniors are encouraged to apply, a preference to attend Open Space will be given to rising seniors.

Open Space Details

Open Space is a week-long art immersion experience.

Dates: Sunday, June 14-Saturday, June 20, 2026 — Participants arrive on Sunday afternoon, then spend a day in each of the JDAC studios Monday through Friday. A student exhibition and reception are held Saturday morning to view the artwork created throughout the week and to celebrate the accomplishments of the participants. Students and families depart at its conclusion.

Applications are due Monday, March 30, 2026. To apply, click the button below.

The application will open soon!

What will you experience?

Participants will gain hands-on experience in a range of art mediums as they work closely with the Hastings College faculty to produce a range of artwork. Evening activities give participants a chance to unwind and to build lasting friendships. The experience is held within the world-class Jackson Dinsdale Art Center (JDAC) on the campus of Hastings College.

Open Space curriculum is led by renowned Hastings College art faculty and explores:

Glassblowing
Ceramics
Painting
Sculpture
Printmaking
Daily intensive studio experiences with Hastings College faculty and guest artists

Days will be filled with hands-on, applied learning, as well as individual time to create within various JDAC art studios.

Amenities included with Open Space

Lodging in Hastings College residence halls
Instruction and art supplies
Meals and entertainment

Who are we looking for?

We are in search of rising high school seniors and juniors who:

Have a high level of artistic talent and interest in studying art in college
Have a digital portfolio to submit that includes 6-8 high-resolution photos of their work. Here is a guide to help when putting your portfolio together.
Good academic standing demonstrated through GPA.
Rising seniors will also need to answer three short essay-style questions.

Fee to Attend Open Space

The cost to attend Open Space is $1,000 per person. This covers all supplies, lodging, meals, snacks, activities and entertainment.

High school seniors who are accepted to Open Space will receive a $1,000 scholarship to attend Hastings College in addition to an art scholarship.

“Creativity can grow anywhere, but having great instructors and equipment can be a spark to really advance that growth. The Jackson Dinsdale Art Center at Hastings College is the place with the instructors, equipment and technology to be that spark!” – Ree and Jun Kaneko

Questions?

Contact your admissions counselor or email admissions@hastings.edu.

facebook.com/hcOpenSpace