ART JAM

A Teen Led Artists' Collective

Ages 11 and UP

A Fun and Creative Time

Students are free to explore and create art daily!

Summer 2025 10am to 1pm 

Fall 3:30pm to 6:30pm

Important Details

  • Class Schedule: Monday to Friday, 10 AM – 1:00 PM FALL 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM
  • Start Date: July 7  
  • Age Group: Tweens to teens 11 and up
  • Class Size: 15 -18

Nurturing Young Artists is What We Do

How It Works

Teen-Curated Curriculum

  1. Teens vote on 5–6 proposed themes (e.g. digital illustration, mixed-media collage, street art lettering, zine-making, upcycled sculpture). Top votes become the weekly projects.Then there’s “Teacher’s Choice”: An instructor-led deep dive into a special technique (e.g. screen printing or enamel painting) to expand horizons.
  2. Session Format (3 Hours Each):Welcome & Demo (30 min): Instructor or teen mentor introduces materials and concept.Hands-On Creation (2 hours): Teens work in small groups or individually, with mentors rotating to assist.Share & Reflect (30 min): Quick gallery walk of that week’s work and peer feedback.
  3. Safety & Supervision: Check-in/out with designated care provider at start and end.Studio staff plus teen mentors maintain a high adult-to-teen ratio.
  4. Culminating Showcase: Final session transforms the studio into a pop-up gallery. Teens invite family and friends to view and purchase works.

Pricing

  • Drop-In: $40 per session (subject to space)
  • 5-Day Pass: $150 total (saves $50; includes all materials and Showcase Night invite)
  • 10-Day Pass: $300 total (saves $100; includes all materials and Showcase Night invite)
  • Sibling Discount: 10% off per additional sibling pass
  • Volunteer Credit: Teens who volunteer four hours may earn a $20 credit toward their pass

Our Instructors

Cheryl Vargas, flanked by Studio 928's first wedding clients Hector and Patricia.

Julie Goolsby is a multifaceted creative based in the Oak Park/Berwyn area, known for her hands-on approach to arts education and event planning. With a background in community engagement and a passion for accessible, joyful art experiences, Julie brings warmth and originality to every project she touches.

At Studio 928, Julie supports program development and community outreach — from coordinating youth and family events to co-leading decor-driven experiences that blend nostalgia and creativity. Whether she’s organizing a Dungeons & Dragons party or helping guests craft 2D and 3D dolls, Julie brings a thoughtful, playful energy to everything she does.

Founder & Creative Creative in Chief, Studio 928

Cheryl Vargas is the founder and heart behind Studio 928.  A graduate of Concordia University Chicago she earned BA in Graphic Arts  and has many years of experience collaborating with Fortune 500 clients like Disney, Netflix, and LinkedIn. Cheryl combines professional expertise with a passion for mentorship.

As a former President of NAWBO Chicago and a lifelong advocate for accessible art education, Cheryl believes every artist—regardless of age—deserves the tools and opportunities to thrive.

Cheryl’s vision is simple: dispel the “starving artist” myth by teaching practical business skills alongside artistic techniques, ensuring that Studio 928 members of all ages can turn their passion into a sustainable path.

When she’s not in the studio, Cheryl is busy leading Girl Scout projects, organizing corporate team-building, or finding inspiration in her three sons and four grandchildren.

Chery Vargas, with by Studio 928 Decor Specialist, Mandy Korst Berg (L) and Julie Goolsby (R).

Some Photos of our Studio

Questions? Complete the form below or give us a call 312-371-9526. OR Register Now