God made man to be creative, believes the Rev. Robin Anderson, associate pastor of University Baptist Church, in Charles Village.

That's one reason why the church organizes its annual art summer camp for children and youths from around the area. The free camp, underwritten by church members, is now in its third year and costs about $4,000 to put on, Anderson said.

"It's so they will have the ability to create in a nurturing environment," says Anderson, associate pastor for education and outreach and director of the camp, which was held July 9-13.

More than 30 youngsters learned painting, music, theater and dance. Some played recorders and handbells; others enacted a sword fight from William Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," even learning the dialogue. Still others made three-dimensional art and mobiles.

"We have a core of very talented artists in our church and we're aware there's a lack of art education in schools," especially underfunded public schools, Anderson said.

And, she added, "We were trying to think of ways to connect with children in our community."

-- Larry Perl