Mess Arts

★★★★★ 5.07 reviewsNew Orleans, LAAges 3–11

Last checked August 2026

Mess Arts is a New Orleans nonprofit arts program that runs art camps during school breaks for ages 3 to 11, grouped as ages 3 to 6 and 7 to 11, from 9am to 3pm at the Waldorf School on Columbus Street. Campers work hands-on across a range of materials and studio practices, and the 2026 to 2027 schedule runs themed camps in October, November and December and for Mardi Gras and spring, with one fall week focused on dance and music. Each class is limited to 15 students, with a teacher and support staff at approximately a 1:8 ratio. Tuition runs on a sliding scale with scholarships, and before care, after care and transportation by request are offered.

Camps

Monster Mash Fall Break Camp | Ages 7-11Active
Oct 12 – Oct 16, 20269:00am – 3:00pmAges 7–11
Monster Mash Fall Break Camp | Ages 3-6Active
Oct 12 – Oct 16, 20269:00am – 3:00pmAges 3–6
Grateful Hearts & Messy Arts Camp | Ages 7-11Active
Nov 23 – Nov 27, 20269:00am – 3:00pmAges 7–11

The practical details

Daily hours
9:00am–3:00pm
Ages
Ages 3–11
Environment
Indoor/Outdoor
Operator
Mess Arts · Private
Before/After CareFinancial Aid AvailableDrop-In / Single DayLGBTQ+ Welcoming
Before you register

We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Mess Arts directly before you register or pay.

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★★★★★Margaret Sche

Mess Arts has been an incredible place for my son to florish and grow in his art skills. Ness is so great with the kids and really spends time getting to know each and every one of their needs as a young person and as an artist. They have become a great mentor to my child and we love this organization so much. They also offer great day camps throughout the year in all the times that we need them which is so appreciated. Cant say enough good things about this young arts organization!

★★★★★Liz Solms

Mess Arts has meant so much to our family. Our daughter has thrived there as a young artist. It is the most creative and fun atmosphere while also being rigorous!

★★★★★Colleen Haley Templeton

We love Mess Arts! It is an inclusive, supportive, exciting space for kids. The summer camp was a highlight for my child, and the Sunday arts series has sparked excitement and creativity. I highly recommend Mess Arts!

★★★★★Alex Rawls

Our family has really got a lot out of working with Ness and Mess Arts. They have helped our daughter not only improve her craft but started her thinking about art in a more sophisticated (but age-appropriate) way.

★★★★★Shannon Zeimetz

My daughter absolutely loves Mess Arts. It is a truly inclusive environment that allows children to be their creative selves in a way few other classes do. They use a wide range of mediums too, things I never got to experience as a child. They teach the children about art history and art techniques in a fun and engaging way during the lessons—my daughter teaches me something every time I pick her up! We’ve done both the art class and the ceramics class—I love having the art and beautiful pottery she makes around the house. They also do summer and holiday camps, which are fantastic. It’s rare to find a place (and people—Ness and Mahalia!) that you 100% trust will keep your child safe, make them feel seen and appreciated, and bring out the best in them. This is that place and these are those people.

From $80 per dayVisit website