Join us for an insightful Q&A session with Stefanie Leland, Marketing & Communications Manager, and two Tulsa-based students at the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute at Quartz Mountain. This interview explores OSAI's vibrant community, unique experiences and its transformative impact on more than 230 young artists every year.
Discover how this extraordinary summer youth program nurtures creativity and fosters artistic growth in Oklahoma's picturesque Quartz Mountain region. For more information, visit Oklahoma Arts Institute at oaiquartz.org.
Stefanie Leland - Marketing & Communications Manager
Q: How does the multidisciplinary approach of OSAI at Quartz Mountain differ from other programs and provide students with a unique experience?
A: We hear time and again the multidisciplinary aspect of our programs aids in creating artistic depth to the experience for the students and faculty alike. Everyone who attends the Summer Arts Institute participates in community lab classes, attends faculty and guest speaker presentations, student performances and extracurricular activities outside their discipline. Students leave the program with an expanded idea of their art form and an appreciation for other creative disciplines, as well.
Q: Tell us about the quality of instruction students receive at OSAI. How does the caliber of your instructors enhance their experience?
A: The Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute has sought out the highest-level of faculty both nationally and globally since inception, bringing the best instructors together for two weeks. By setting high expectations, the students elevate what they expect of themselves. Each day, students attend six hours of uninterrupted study in their discipline, allowing for exponential growth in only two short weeks.
Q: How does participating in the program for multiple years affect students' growth?
A: We have had several students attend the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute for five straight years. While some attend each year for the same discipline, other students explore multiple disciplines from one year to the next. For example, a student may attend orchestra in one year and then attend photography the next. Another may take acting and then filmmaking.
Q: What is the biggest impact OSAI has on students and faculty?
A: All students attending receive a full scholarship, creating an environment where students of all backgrounds can grow and learn not just as artists but as people. Students leave our program often feeling reassured that they are moving in the right direction in life. Often, faculty comment on how their time with the students and their exposure to all the various disciplines has left them reinvigorated with a fresh new outlook on their own artistic journey.
Q: How can interested readers support OSAI?
A: The Oklahoma Arts Institute just concluded its 48th Summer Arts Institute and runs three main programs: the Summer Arts Institute for high school students, the Fall Arts Institute for educators and private-pay individuals and Quartz Preview Days. As a nonprofit, we rely on funding from the State Department of Education, the Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, along with individual donors. Readers can show support through donations, volunteering or contributing supplies. We celebrate our community of generous art patrons and supporters, and we’d love to welcome new ones! Join us as we work to guide and develop individual talent, enrich culture and engage communities across Oklahoma.
Lillian Orr – Creative Writing & Poetry Student
A creative writer and poet at Bishop Kelley, Lillian (Lilly) Orr has honed her craft and found inspiration through the enriching environment at the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute.
Q: How did you first become aware of OSAI at Quartz Mountain?
Lilly: My choir teacher encouraged our class to audition. While choir isn’t my strong suit, I discovered the creative writing program and decided to apply because I’ve always loved writing.
Q: How did you feel when you were selected?
A: I screamed with excitement! I was ecstatic because I didn’t think I’d make it.
Q: How has this experience impacted your growth as a writer?
A: Being surrounded by diverse writers inspired me to expand my writing style. I also learned about publishers' preferences, which influenced how I approach or format my writing and poetry. The knowledge I gained at OSAI is invaluable. I learned things at OSAI that I would’ve never learned anywhere else.
Q: How has interacting with students in other disciplines influenced your experience?
A: My roommate was in the orchestra. Watching choir and orchestra performances, I was amazed at how much they accomplished in a week. It showed me that while our processes differ, we share similar challenges and creative struggles.
Q: What has been the most challenging and inspiring part of the program?
A: My insecurities were the hardest to overcome. Seeing others' work made me doubt myself, but I learned that everyone is unique. The most inspiring part was reading my poetry aloud and discussing publishing with my instructor.
Q: Why would you encourage other young artists to join OSAI?
We live in such a busy world that it’s hard to find time to dedicate to your discipline. OSAI allows you to spend two weeks on a gorgeous and inspiring campus and devote time to your passion while also making connections with new people you might’ve never otherwise met. It’s a truly life-changing experience that you can’t really find anywhere else!
Seth Collucci – Photography Student
Class of ‘24 graduate of the Tulsa School of Arts and Sciences, Seth Collucci continues to develop his artistic vision and technical skills as a photographer, benefiting immensely from the guidance and opportunities at Quartz Mountain.
Q: How did you first become aware of OSAI at Quartz Mountain?
Seth: My photography teacher, Cheyenne Butcher, introduced me to the program. She was a former OSAI student and encouraged me to apply. During this time, I was also starting to take my photography more seriously and realized this program could further my art form.
Q: How did you feel when you were selected?
A: I was thrilled and honored for this incredible opportunity to advance my art. I remember my heart beating so fast when I found out I was selected!
Q: How has this experience impacted your growth as a photographer?
A: OSAI challenged my technical knowledge and skills in the darkroom. I entered with years of experience but left feeling like my skills had doubled. The instructors pushed me to expand my capabilities.
Q: How has interacting with students in other disciplines influenced your experience?
A: I gained a newfound appreciation for dance and chorus. Seeing such talented students perform broadened my artistic perspective and made me realize our shared humanity despite our different art forms.
Q: What has been the most challenging and inspiring part of the program?
A: Accepting that there’s always room for improvement was challenging but ultimately inspiring. I love learning and improving my own skills every day. Most of all, I love the challenge, no matter what it is.
Q: Why would you encourage other young artists to join OSAI?
A: OSAI is the perfect place to develop as an artist. There’s always room for artistic growth, and this environment fosters that. With such talented instructors and a beautiful campus, this is the perfect place to grow!
Students leave our program often feeling reassured that they are moving in the right direction in life.