Digital Media Ctr | Variety Boys & Girls Club

National Association of Theater Owners of California/Nevada

DIGITAL MEDIA CENTER

The National Association of Theatre Owners of CA/NV Digital Media Center at the Variety Boys & Girls Club exposes and prepares members for a career in digital media. The Digital Media Center provides members with access to different interactive programs and activities for members of all ages. Additionally, members are introduced to guest speakers, workshops, and field trips in order to expand their knowledge of careers and majors in digital media.

Programs offered:

In this fun and creative class, 40 members (green and red group) explore the basics of animation and learn how simple drawings come to life! They discover the animation process step by step — from brainstorming ideas and sketching to creating movement through frames. By the end of the course, each student will design and complete their very own flipbook animation to take home and share!

Flip & Animate

In this class, 40 members (green and red group) dive into the world of anime while discovering the beauty of Japanese culture. Each class, members explore what makes anime different from other animation styles — from expressive characters to unique drawing techniques. Along the way, they learn about cultural traditions, stories, and art styles from Japan. By the end of the course, each student will create their own anime-inspired artwork!

Drawn to Anime

In this hands-on class, 22 members (Green Group/teens) learn fun photography techniques — from framing and lighting to capturing unique perspectives. Using Polaroid cameras, they explore the streets of Boyle Heights, applying what they’ve learned while snapping real-life photos. After each photography field trip, members reflect on their experience by journaling and documenting their favorite shots, turning their photos into personal stories.

Picture This

Each week, 40 members (Green and Red group) take on a new challenge — imagining they’ve been hired by a famous company to create or reinvent a product. From designing a new holiday soda flavor for Pepsi to giving a classic snack a fresh twist. They brainstorm, sketch, and pitch their creative ideas to the class. Additionally, they have an opportunity to taste or sample the product before designing, making this hands-on experience both creative and delicious!

Dream to Design

In this creative exploration of art history, 40 members (Green and Red Group) travel back in time — starting with the masterpieces of the Renaissance and moving forward through key art movements and iconic artists. Each week, they discover the stories behind famous artworks, learn about different styles, and create their own art inspired by what they’ve learned. It’s a fun and hands-on way to see how art has changed over time and continues to inspire us today.

Palletes of the Past

In this collaborative class of 20 members, advanced digital media students take on the role of mentors — partnering with beginners to teach them essential graphic design skills using Adobe Illustrator. Through hands-on activities and creative projects, members work together on basic tools, techniques, and design concepts. It’s a unique team-building experience where advanced members sharpen their leadership skills while beginners gain confidence and creativity in graphic design!

Graphic Explorers

In this supportive class, 40 members build public speaking skills through weekly themed show-and-tell activities. Whether sharing a favorite plushie, a meaningful song, a special souvenir, or another personal item, students practice speaking in front of a group while learning how to express their thoughts and stories clearly. It’s a fun and encouraging way to grow confidence, creativity, and communication skills!

Pieces of Me

Using the Polaroid pictures that our members captured on Tuesday’s photography field trip, members design and journal about their experiences. Every week, members are adding new photos to their portfolio showcasing their body of work.

Photo Journalism