Art Camp 4 Grownups started when camp leadership decided to offer life drawing and photography classes to its August adult encampment in 2007. As years went by, more and varied classes were offered, in watercolor, acrylics, and other favored disciplines.  

For the 20th year, experienced and novice artists alike have the chance to enjoy a six-day exploration of art in the splendor of a lush and affordable mountain retreat. Artists come from near and far to take art classes from talented, passionate, professional artists, and enjoy the company of fellow creatives.

Although Art Camp is held in our beloved Camp de Benneville Pines, Art Camp is organized by the volunteer dean, her distinguished teachers, and outstanding staff.

Our visionary founder, Laura Janes was succeeded by Betsy Gilpin, who served for over a decade. Since 2022 our current dean has been Abbey Chamberlain.

Our Humble Beginnings

In 2007, an extraordinary artist, Laura Janes, founded Art Camp. She was the Artist in Residence for De Benneville Pines for over 8 years, creating Art Camp in the process.

Laura is a painter who has made her living as an artist for over three decades. The first half of 2025 saw her create an 8’ x 16’ mural for the Astoria Public Library. Recently she has illustrated a book, “Where does the River Start” for author Arline LaMear.

After achieving her dream of living in Astoria Oregon, she has become involved in the arts community there. She serves on the Board of the Arts Council of Clatsop County and volunteers as a gallery docent for Astoria Visual Arts.  Her watercolor paintings of sites in and around Astoria can be seen at Port Hopper in downtown Astoria.

Beginning her training at San Diego State University she went on to careers in teaching, sales and small business before finally surrendering to the need to be a full-time painter. 

She has been on the Board of Directors of the Artists Council of the Palm Springs Art Museum as well as the President of the Interior Design Society of Palm Springs and Board of Director member of the ASID Chapters in Palm Springs and Portland.

We will have a special evening dedicated to hearing Laura’s experiences and philosophy on not only creating art, but also selling art. Many things have changed in the art world in half a century.