The fourth annual Summer Arts Program continues its focus on creative capacity building and participatory community arts through hands-on workshops.

There was plenty to look at on the tables at Dyment Recreation Hall on Wednesday afternoon. Animal bones and skulls became the focus of a hands-on art workshop led by local Borups Corners artist Leanne Nicholson.

From 1 to 4 p.m., participants learned about the different bones and skulls before getting out the paint and creating their own pieces. Leanne shared what she knows about the materials and helped participants explore the shapes and details of the bones while developing their own designs.

The workshop was part of the fourth year of the Summer Arts Program, which uses art as a way to bring people together, build creative skills and encourage participation in community life. The program continues through October 18, with a variety of opportunities for people to learn, make and experiment together.

The Dyment Recreation Hall is also open for regular drop-in sessions every Monday and Wednesday from 1 to 4 p.m. All are welcome to stop in, whether they want to work on something, join an activity, meet other people or simply have a look around.

Some of Wednesday’s painted bones and skulls will have another outing soon. Selected pieces will be included in the upcoming Fall Arts Exhibition at the Dyment Recreation Hall, which launches September 12.

It was a good afternoon for trying something a little different. A collection of bones became the starting point for artwork, conversation and a few new ideas about what can make an interesting canvas.

We especially thank Leanne Nicholson, Art Borups Corners and the Local Services Board of Melgund for making this summer’s arts, culture and recreation programming so much fun.