Teen Academy at Riffe Gallery

COLUMBUS, OH — Art Academy of Cincinnati (AAC) is proud to announce Teen Academy at Art Academy of Cincinnati, a vibrant exhibition featuring selected artwork created by fourteen Teen Academy students during Summer 2025. On view January 27 through March 18, 2026, at the Riffe Gallery (77 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215), the exhibition highlights the creative range of artists ages 13–18 as they explored new techniques, ideas, and personal artistic voices through AAC’s summer teen programs. 

The exhibition includes work produced in Teen Academy courses spanning abstract painting, ceramic installation, printmaking, fashion, drawing, darkroom photography, and more—capturing both the experimentation and ambition of young artists building their skills within a supportive studio environment. 

Teen Academy reflects Art Academy of Cincinnati’s commitment to nurturing artists across every stage of their development—from early creative exploration in childhood to focused portfolio-building in the teen years. Many students first discover AAC through community programs like Camp Art Academy, then return year after year as their skills, confidence, and artistic voice grow through hands-on studio experiences and mentorship. A featured example in the exhibition is Untitled, a photogram created by Henry H. in Summer 2025 as part of the course Multiple Exposure Film Photography. Henry began his journey with AAC community programs through Camp Art Academy in 2022, later advancing into Teen Academy. Over the years, he has expanded his practice among peers through coursework in painting, drawing, ceramics, installation, projection art, film photography, printmaking, writing, and illustration—an example of how sustained access, encouragement, and professional facilities can help young artists strengthen their studio work and envision creative futures. 

Participating Students: 

Kendall H. • Amelie N. • Malia T. • Lucia H. • Greta H. • Peyton G. • Lola F. • Henry H. • Dogwood W. • Emmett P. • Teoman D. • Alona N. • Mackenzie M. • Callie P. 

About Teen Academy 

Teen Academy is a six-week, summertime program for teens ages 13–18, offering an immersive and inclusive experience in the art college environment. Each week features a unique theme, and within each week, students select a morning course and an afternoon course. Courses are new every week, and students can choose to participate in one week, all six, or any number in between. 

Teen Academy encourages students to strengthen their portfolio, prepare for college, or simply express their creative voice in this inclusive environment each summer. By sharing their art with a vibrant community of young artists, designers, writers, and instructors, students forge connections that impact their future. Teens are welcome to explore their interests while using the AAC’s state-of-the-art facilities, with instruction available in painting, drawing, filmmaking, photography, creative writing, and much more. 

For teens who want to go even deeper, Art Academy of Cincinnati also offers Pre-College Future BFA, an immersive summer program designed for high school students ready to experience the pace, expectations, and excitement of college-level creative work. Students build portfolio-ready projects, explore potential majors, and receive mentorship from college faculty—while connecting with a community of young artists from across the country. Students who complete the program also earn three transferable college credits, giving them a head start in their pursuit of a creative career. Together, Teen Academy and Pre-College Future BFA create a meaningful pathway for students to grow their creative skills, expand their confidence, and envision futures in art, design, writing, and creative industries. 

Exhibition Details 

Teen Academy at Art Academy of Cincinnati 
On view: January 27 – March 18, 2026 
Location: Riffe Gallery 
77 S. High St. 
Columbus, OH 43215