Open Space for the Visual Arts

Open Space is a summer art immersion program provided by Hastings College and the College’s Jackson Dinsdale Art Center. It’s specifically designed for future college artists currently completing their junior year of high school.

New this year! Up to eight students participating in Open Space will be selected for the 2026 Hastings College Jackson Scholars Program! The Jackson Scholars Program provides an all expenses paid opportunity to major in art and attend Hastings College — it includes a scholarship that covers 100 percent of tuition, general fees, room and meals for four years, and also provides professional enrichment opportunities.

Students selected for Open Space who do not receive a Jackson Scholars Program offer will instead receive a top art scholarship to attend Hastings College.

Open Space Details

Open Space is a six day, five night art immersion experience.

Dates: Selected students will arrive to campus later in the afternoon of Sunday, June 15, 2025, then rotate through studios in the JDAC Monday through Friday. Then the morning of Friday, June 20, we’ll host an exhibition and reception for students to show off what they accomplished during the week. This will wrap up by noon.

To apply, follow the link below. Applications are due Wednesday April 30.

The application is open!

What will you experience?

Selected students will gain hands-on experience in a range of art mediums, plus meet Hastings College faculty and guest artists, through which they’ll discover opportunities about a career in art. The experience is held at 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
Screen Printing
Cold Wax and Oil Collage
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 in 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 current high school 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.
Optional: One or two references who can provide insight into you and/or your art, such as a teacher, supervisor from a job, etc.

Fees and Scholarships

The cost to attend Open Space is $250 per person.

This program is valued at more than $1,000. The Jackson Dinsdale Endowment at the Hastings College Foundation has generously granted each student a $750 scholarship for every student selected. No selected student will be turned away due to finances, as financial aid is available to families who qualify for the free and reduced lunch program.

“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 reach out to Dr. Annette Vargas, Vice President for Access, Enrollment & Performance, at avargas@hastings.edu or 402.461.7349.

facebook.com/hcOpenSpace