81C is honored to announce a second consecutive year of summer art programs by 81C Arts taking place at 81C Studio located in the Camille Pissarro House. Summer art programs for 2025 are zero-cost and 100% scholarship-based thanks to working relationships with valued community partners supporting art and education in the Virgin Islands.
Expression Through The Arts by instructor Dyonna Potter will take place June 23 – July 17, followed by Artistry Unleashed by instructor Shem Matthew, July 21 – August 14.
About Expression Through The Arts:
JUNE 23 – JULY 17 / AGES 8-16
Expression through The Arts is a transformative four-week summer program that provides a safe, supportive environment for students to explore and develop their creative potential. This program empowers participants to express themselves through visual art, creative writing, improv games, and other artistic activities, fostering not only artistic growth but also crucial social-emotional skills. By engaging in creative exploration, students learn to communicate their thoughts and emotions in meaningful ways, which can have lasting positive effects on their self-confidence and resilience.
Each week, students work on unique projects that allow them to discover their individual artistic voice, leading to a deep sense of accomplishment and personal growth. These experiences not only enhance their creative skills but also prepare them for future opportunities, encouraging them to think critically, collaborate with others, and approach challenges with an open mind. The program emphasizes the value of creative expression as a tool for problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and building connections—skills that are invaluable in both academic and real-world settings.
At the end of the program, students’ artwork will be showcased in an end-of-summer exhibit, offering a meaningful opportunity for students, families, and teachers to celebrate the creativity and growth achieved. This exhibition is more than just a display of art; it’s a chance for the entire community to come together, share in the joy of the students’ creative journey, and see firsthand how nurturing artistic expression can make a positive impact on individuals and the broader community. Through this program, students not only grow as artists but also contribute to a more compassionate, creative, and connected community.
About Artistry Unleashed:
JULY 21 – AUGUST 14 / AGES 10-17
Artistry Unleashed is a dynamic four-week summer art camp designed for students aged 10–17. Limited to 12 participants, the program provides an immersive experience that blends hands-on projects, creative exploration, and collaborative learning.
Students will explore mixed media, illustration, and stage design, developing their artistic skills in a supportive and engaging environment. Each day the program runs from 8:00 AM to 3PM, featuring a balance of structured lessons, independent work, and collaborative group projects.
By the end of the camp, students will have completed a portfolio of unique creations, gained practical knowledge of artistic techniques, and developed design and storytelling skills
Admissions and Applications:
Students are welcome to apply for both programs and can find applications online at 81CVI.ORG.
Questions about admissions can be directed to 340-203-4030.
Applications will be accepted through June 13.
Statements:
“Artistry Unleashed is a hands-on summer art camp led by a veteran educator and artist with over eight years of experience teaching in the USVI. Our goal is to nurture young minds through diverse creative outlets—whether visual, musical, tactile, spoken, or written—to help them grow as confident, imaginative thinkers.” -Shem Matthew, Program Director, 81C Arts
“I don’t know where I’d be without creative outlets growing up, which is why this program means so much to me. After the success of our first year, I’m more motivated than ever to expand my program’s impact. This summer, every student slot is fully funded, allowing us to welcome a diverse group of young artists who can learn from one another and grow together. I can’t wait to see what they create!” -Dyonna Potter, Program Director and board member, 81C Arts
“IPB & ICMC are proud to support Expression Through the Arts for a second year, and the launch of Artistry Unleashed. One of our company values is empowerment and these summer art programs do just that – empower young people to explore their creative interests, nurture an outlet for expression, and develop skills for the future.” -Allison Flanders, IPB & ICMC
“As we commemorate our second year, the momentum of our initiative continues to strengthen. Thanks to our ongoing collaborations with valued community partners, We are pleased to announce that our summer programming is fully supported, enabling us to offer scholarship opportunities to every participant. This accolade is instrumental as we celebrate the diverse voices within our creative community.” -Joseph Hewes, Board President, 81C Arts
“Programs like Expression Through the Arts and Artistry Unleashed—brought to life by dedicated educators Ms. Potter and Mr. Matthew through 81C Arts—hold the potential to profoundly shape the artistic future of St. Thomas. Recognizing how essential arts access is for young people, we deeply appreciate IPB & ICMC and our community partners for identifying this need and supporting our transition toward fully scholarship-based admission models. Easing the financial burden on families has remained a core priority in making these programs truly accessible.” – Zack Zook, Executive Director, 81C Arts
More info:
Dyonna Potter
Art Educator
Dyonna Chandelle Potter is an enthusiastic art educator and a proud member of 81C’s Art and Education Advisory Board. A native of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, she began her artistic journey at The School of Visual Arts & Careers and participated in multiple productions at Pistarckle Theatre. Dyonna earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Savannah College of Art & Design and certifications in Graphic Design from Pace University and Shillington School of Graphic Design.
After working as a Technical Designer for major fashion houses in NYC, she returned to St. Thomas in 2020, where she discovered her passion for art education. In 2024, she launched the “Expression Through the Arts” program with 81C, which has since expanded year-round. Dyonna currently serves as the elementary art teacher at Antilles School.
With a deep passion for art and design, Dyonna is dedicated to helping students bring their ideas to life and aims to inspire creative self-expression in the youth of the Virgin Islands while continuing her own artistic growth.
Shem Matthew
Art Educator | Curriculum Developer
Shem Matthew is a passionate and experienced art educator with over nine years of teaching experience. He began his career teaching middle school art and is currently in his second year of teaching high school art at the Virgin Islands Department of Education.
Shem is also an Art Education Advisor for the 81C Art Gallery Foundation, contributing to creative opportunities within the community.
About 81C Arts:
81C Arts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing arts access, education, and cultural engagement in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Its flagship location on Strand Gade in historic Charlotte Amalie houses a contemporary art gallery and event space, serving as a hub for curated exhibitions and community gatherings. Just two blocks away, its sister location in the Camille Pissarro House features a classroom for educational programming and working artist studios—supporting both youth enrichment initiatives and emerging artists. Through these spaces and island-wide partnerships, 81C Arts fosters creative opportunity, visibility, and inclusion across the territory.
81CVI.ORG / 340 203-4030
