Shine has been a thriving mobile creative arts business in New York City since 2005, building a reputation for imaginative, child-centered programming that blends process art, social skills, and experiential learning. But it was in 2012 that founder Aaron Goldschmidt recognized an opportunity beyond the city—one that would shape the next chapter of Shine’s story.

Many of Shine’s New York City families spent their summers in the Hamptons, yet at the time, options for children’s programming were limited to just a handful of large, traditional camps. Goldschmidt saw a clear gap: Families were craving something smaller, more intimate, and deeply rooted in creativity. With a vision to create a program that celebrated the natural beauty, rich history, and close-knit community of the East End, Shine in the Hamptons was born.

Launching its first summer camp in 2014, Shine quickly resonated with families seeking a more thoughtful and engaging alternative. What began as a small, creative offering has since grown into a beloved seasonal staple. Now in its 13th summer, Shine has enjoyed continued success, a testament to both the strength of its programming and the loyal community it has cultivated over the years.

A major milestone came in 2021 with the opening of The Shine Studio, a dedicated creative arts space in the Hamptons. This expansion marked a shift from a seasonal program to a year-round presence, allowing Shine to deepen its connection with both local residents and visiting families. The studio has become a vibrant hub for creativity, offering classes, workshops, and events designed for all ages, 18 months to adult!

At the heart of Shine is the belief that the most meaningful learning happens when children are free to explore, create, and connect. Rather than dividing experiences, Shine brings together art, music, movement, cooking, nature, and imaginative play to create immersive, multi-sensory adventures. Each thoughtfully designed experience nurtures curiosity, encourages creative thinking, and supports the social, emotional, and cognitive development of the whole child—proving that the most lasting lessons are often discovered through joyful exploration.

As Shine celebrates 13 years in the Hamptons, the occasion will be marked with an Art Mitzvah on Sunday, August 16, bringing together families, friends, and the community for an afternoon of creativity, live music, food, crafts, and celebration. For more information and tickets, visit shinenyc.net.