Salina Youth Create Clay Mural at YMCA Summer Camp; Installation Planned for Spring

Roughly 75 children in kindergarten through seventh grade participated in a week-long clay tile project during a summer camp held at the Salina YMCA, according to a staff report presented to the Arts and Humanities Commission on Aug. 19, 2026.

Artists identified as Ann and Chip led the effort, with four adult instructors working with children divided into mixed-age sessions throughout the day. Younger children cut out simple shapes from pre-designed compositions while older participants handled more detailed carving and sculpting. A staff member said the project involved 16 large blocks made up of two-by-two tile sections, along with individual four-by-four tiles that participants could personalize with their names, ages, or the year.

A Tuesday evening family workshop included fire station staff, other city staff, and their families, who worked on tiles with fire-related designs.

The clay tiles are currently drying at the artists' studio, a process expected to take four to six weeks before an initial firing and glaze firing. Staff said the final installation is anticipated in early spring, likely March or April, depending on weather. A dedication event may be held at that time.

Staff also said camera crews came in during the camp to film footage and conduct interviews for a marketing piece that will be released around the time of installation. Commissioners were invited to participate in decorating remaining border tiles at a session planned for the following month.