Budding artists of all ages looking to add a splash of color to those long, hot summer days can find a creative outlet in the heart of Welches. Sign-ups are under way at K & M Creations, a new local art studio and gallery designed with beginning artists in mind, owner Kim Decker said.

“We are a local art studio that caters to beginner artists and people who want to be creative in a fun and friendly environment,” Decker said.

Decker said she was inspired to create the studio because there was a need to offer local youth something different.

“There’s really nothing to do up there,” she said. “There aren’t too many activities for kids. No classes for kids.”

She had a hard time finding local after school activities and summer camps for her daughter, Maddy, so when office space in Welches opened up, she opened an art studio where kids and adults can come together and be creative.

“There are weekly painting classes, arts and crafts classes and summer camps,” Decker said. “We want to create a safe, positive environment for anyone who wants to explore their creativity.” Decker has had her hands in art for over 20 years as a self-taught artist and teacher. She teaches how to work with everything from acrylic paint to arts and crafts, from canvases to ceramics and jewelry making.
Maddy, 14, will also help teach classes. She and her mother have been doing arts and crafts together since Maddy was able to hold a paintbrush.

“My daughter is pretty talented,” Decker said. “She loves kids and she loves to teach.”
Every week of the summer day camp, the art expresses a different theme. For example, one week focuses on a Magical Forest theme, and the next week explores an Under The Sea theme, Decker said.
Camp Courage, designed specifically for teenage girls, focuses on themes of building self-confidence and self-esteem through art.

Art Night Fridays at K & M Creations are different each week, with a special subject for each class. Decker expects that to be a popular weekly attraction for students.

K & M Creations provides young artists a space conducive to artistic expression and creativity.
The studio, which occupies an 18-by-20-foot room, has large tables to accommodate 12 students.

K & M Creations is located at 24403 E. Welches Road, Suite 102, Welches. For more information, phone at Kim decker at 503-819-5667 or email kmcreations@gmail.com.