There’s something truly special about the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute at Quartz Mountain — a kind of magic that’s hard to describe but impossible to forget. Since 1977, OSAI has been weaving together young artists from across Oklahoma, threading their unique voices, visions, and talents into a vibrant, living work of art.
Each summer, for two transformative weeks, students immerse themselves in a multidisciplinary experience that stretches, challenges, and inspires them all within the breathtaking backdrop of Quartz Mountain.
But the real beauty of OSAI lies in the threads they bring and the ones they carry home. Through their stories, you’ll see how inspiration is sparked, friendships are stitched together, and artistic identities begin to take shape.
Read on to hear directly from the students of OSAI 2025 — passionate young artists in acting, chorus, creative writing, dance, drawing & painting, film & video, orchestra, and photography — as they reflect on the moments that now live as part of their own creative tapestry.
“There are some places in life that change you not just for a moment, but forever. Quartz Mountain has been that place for me. For two summers, I have studied acting at the Oklahoma Arts Institute, and each time I’ve returned home fuller-of purpose, of skill, and of wonder. To be surrounded by artists from every corner of the state, guided by professionals who see not just our talent, but our potential, is nothing short of magic. I've learned how to speak through silence, how to listen with my whole body, and how to honor stories of mine and others with care and courage. The Oklahoma Arts Institute didn't just teach me how to act. It reminded me why art matters. Thank you for continuing to invest in a space where young Oklahomans grow into brave creators.” Seidah Muhammad, Acting (Del City)
“My journey at Quartz taught me resilience, made me new friends, and contributed to my life in ways that other camps never have in the past. I loved all the parts of this summer camp and enjoyed this experience with all my heart!” -Noah Ly, Chorus (Edmond)
“OSAI was a transformative experience for me as a writer. Along with being the first formal creative writing class I've experienced, Quartz Mountain provided me with a group of peers who shared my passion for writing. My biggest regret at OSAI is easily that I have to leave it." -Van Waldron, Creative Writing (Tulsa)
“I was very scared when I first came here and had no idea what to expect, but everyone I met was so kind, and the faculty and students were all so welcoming and warm. Our teachers were so joyful and were like a ray of sun on a gloomy morning. My fellow classmates were all so dedicated to their craft, and I was so honored to be grouped with so much talent in one room. This experience has made me love dance more than I ever have, and I’m thankful to all the people responsible for getting me to this place. Thank you OSAI." -Julianne Burns, Dance (Tahlequah)
“Quartz Mountain will always stay in my mind as something beautiful. I spent the whole time between my first year and now almost impatiently waiting to come back. It is one of the few opportunities I have to make friends freely as myself, and it feels like a glimpse of what my life might be like once I graduate and go out on my own. I was able to instantly connect with my classmates, and in less than a week of getting to know each other we were doing makeup and singing karaoke like it didn't matter that we were still almost strangers. I love Quartz Mountain and especially love the people it led me to." -Ramey Wilkins, Drawing & Painting (Enid)
“I’ve learned and grown so much during my time at OSAI this year! Before I came, I didn’t know much about using a camera or editing, and I remember being so nervous about meeting people. Now I’ve met so many amazing people I love to call my friends, and feel much more confident about my art. I have made multiple unforgettable memories, and I know the minute I get home I’ll wish I was back.” -Annie Cox, Film & Video (Edmond)
“Through OSAI, I've learned that music is a gift, not just a hobby or job. It's something to share, and I didn't realize that fully until coming to Quartz my sophomore year. Playing Pines of Rome under the direction of conductor Jung-Ho Pak was the first time I had ever truly smiled while playing my instrument, and I'll never forget that. He made us comfortable in that environment, taught us how to connect with each other, enjoy the collaboration, and express our humanity. From then on, I've tried to put a little bit of myself in everything I do, and not just perform for myself or a grade, but for friends and colleagues and people who just enjoy music. Music connects communities and makes us human, and I've learned that through Quartz Mountain. I'm a better person and musician because of Quartz Mountain. Thank you for everything.” -Adrian Clements, Orchestra (Norman)
“OSAI has given me more than I could ever expect. I learned college level material while being alongside some of the most incredible people and creators I’ve ever met. These are people that are going to be in my life for a long time. I cannot say enough how much the staff does for us. They have incredible knowledge and encouragement for each student. We spend about six hours a day laughing, learning, loving, and connecting for two whole weeks. There is absolutely nothing I would have rather spent the last two weeks doing. Thank you to OAI." -Sadie Woollard, Photography (Owasso)