Pre-College ArtLab (PCAL)
Session 1:
June 15 - June 27, 2025
Studio options are Animation, Ceramics, Illustration, Interdisciplinary*, and Painting
Session 2:
July 13 - July 25, 2025
Studio options are Animation, Illustration, Interdisciplinary*, Painting, and 2D + 3D Design
In addition to their chosen studios, all students will participate in sessions in other areas, including art history and life drawing.
*open to students graduating high school in spring 2025
Application Deadline & Cost:
PCAL Residency Cost: $2,500 - includes three college credits, housing, meals, and supplies.
Applications are due by March 1st for scholarship consideration and priority studio placement. Applications are accepted until the program is full. Please contact Admissions at (816) 472-4852 or pcal@kcai.edu with questions.
Each student who successfully completes the PCAL program and who is accepted to KCAI's BFA degree program will be eligible to receive an annual, renewable $1,000 scholarship.
Students who are graduating high school in spring 2025 and who successfully complete the Interdisciplinary studio will be eligible to receive an annual, renewable $2,000 scholarship. If a student completed a past PCAL program, this $2,000 scholarship will replace their previous PCAL scholarship.
PCAL scholarships will be in addition to the KCAI merit-based scholarship, and financial aid for which students qualify based on the FAFSA.
Animation
In this studio, students will explore the processes of motion-based narrative and storytelling. You will build an understanding of stop-motion and experimental animation processes. Through faculty lead demonstrations, self-guided exercises and faculty feedback, you will build knowledge and experience. This studio is great for anyone interested in bringing their characters and ideas to life through the art of animation. You will work in a collaborative animation studio and be inspired by your peers.
Illustration
In this studio, students will explore the processes of expression, narrative and storytelling through Illustration. You will investigate how to express your ideas through text, image and character using a variety of materials and processes. This studio is great for anyone interested in character design, concept art and the narrative with still imagery. You will work in a collaborative illustration studio with access to a variety of faculty who are all professional Illustrators.
Ceramics (June Session)
In this studio, students will learn both wheel throwing and handbuilding techniques. You will be introduced to contemporary ceramic art, and the expansive approach will result in both functional pottery and sculptural projects. Individual voices will be expanded upon through decoration techniques and self-directed conceptual interests. This studio is great for anyone who is interested in the transformative potentials of the ceramic medium, building hand skills, and working in 3D. The open, collaborative studio will emphasize sharing techniques and results between students.
Painting
In this studio, students will experience painting through a wide range of perspectives. You will learn about historical and contemporary practitioners, processes, and approaches. Through self-guided exercises and one on one feedback, you will build knowledge of tool handling, paint application and increase your visual acuity through observational studies. This studio is great for anyone interested in exploring compositional strategies, color theory, and communication through the painted image. Each student will have an individual studio space where you will work and build community with your peers.
Interdisciplinary
(open to students graduating high school in spring 2025)
In this studio designed to provide experiences, knowledge and tools for success at KCAI, students will have an immersive experience that focuses on fundamental art and design principles based on KCAI’s Foundation program. You will be led through exercises focusing on a series of images while experimenting with a variety of materials. You will explore the four main pillars of art making: 1D, drawing; 2D, color theory and painting applications; 3D, sculpture and building techniques; and 4D, documentation and moving images. This will be done through one overarching project that is broken into smaller components over the course of the two-week program. You will work in a collaborative studio with two faculty from KCAI's Foundation program.
2D + 3D Design (July Session)
This studio is built for students interested in the world of 2D and 3D design. You will practice skills related to graphic design through design drawing techniques, and will learn how to digitally draw and 3D model ideas using Rhino software. Finally, you will prototype your ideas through hands-on digital fabrication, such as 3D printing and laser cutting. This studio is great for students interested in exploring product design, graphic design, sculpture, or architecture. You will work in a design studio and be guided by a professional product designer with a rich background in both art and design.