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Paint on a rooftop above a chimpanzee habitat at Project Chimps in Morganton, Georgia. This two-hour, instructor-led class combines hands-on painting, volunteer-led interpretation, and live views of retired research chimpanzees—no art experience required.
Paint on a rooftop above a chimpanzee habitat at Project Chimps in Morganton, Georgia. This two-hour, instructor-led class combines hands-on painting, volunteer-led interpretation, and live views of retired research chimpanzees—no art experience required.
Book with Project Chimps
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Operated by Project Chimps · Morganton, Georgia
Perched above a living habitat at Project Chimps in Morganton, Georgia, Painting with Primates is an outdoor art workshop that pairs a step‑by‑step painting lesson with live chimpanzee viewing. For roughly two hours on a Saturday afternoon, an instructor guides up to a dozen participants across an easy volunteer-led walk to a rooftop classroom where canvases, paints, brushes and bottled water are supplied. The classroom overlooks the sanctuary’s enclosure, so while you mix color and practice brushwork you may catch chimpanzees moving through forested enclosures, using platforms, and interacting with caregivers.
The scene is quietly unusual for north Georgia: a hands-on creative experience that takes place directly beside a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to retired research chimpanzees. Key features include the rooftop painting area, observation platforms and paths that allow close but respectful viewing, and the surrounding mixed hardwood woodland that frames the enclosures. Volunteers and staff share conservation context and practical care details during the short walk, offering a grounded understanding of the animals’ rescues and daily lives.
Beginners and experienced painters both find this relaxed format rewarding; the instructor adapts projects to skill levels and provides guided steps so no prior art experience is required. The session meets at 1:00 PM on Saturdays, lasts about two hours, and is capped at 12 people—book early. Children age 10 and older may attend with a registered adult. The rooftop is accessed by elevator to the first level, then a climb of about twelve steps to reach the open-air classroom; if you have mobility concerns contact the sanctuary before booking.
Practical details matter: classes run rain or shine and will shift indoors if rooftop conditions don’t permit outdoor painting, and Project Chimps may cancel if minimum participation isn’t met. All proceeds help support the sanctuary’s care programs; your registration contributes directly to retired chimpanzees’ welfare. Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera if you want to capture the scene, but follow staff guidance about flash and disturbance.
Painting with Primates is a rare fusion of hands-on art, wildlife observation and environmental education. It’s a thoughtful way to spend an afternoon in Morganton—one that supports sanctuary work, creates tangible takeaways you can frame, and leaves you with a clearer sense of the lives of chimpanzees who now live in care rather than research. Whether you come for the painting or the view, the experience feels rooted in place and purpose.
Reserve early during peak seasons and arrive 10–15 minutes before check-in to complete any waivers. Finished paintings dry quickly but take a small portfolio or tube to protect your work on the drive home. Expect friendly volunteers, clear safety guidance, and the chance to ask questions about chimp care and daily routines.
easy.
2 hours.
Light activity; participants should be able to walk a short distance and climb a flight of stairs.
Children age 10 and older may register and must be accompanied by a registered adult.
The workshop runs approximately two hours and includes a short volunteer-led walk to the rooftop and the painting session.
Yes—canvases, paints, brushes and bottled water are provided as part of the experience.
Classes are held rain or shine; if rooftop conditions are unsafe the session will move indoors but will still include opportunities to view the chimpanzees.
An elevator services the first level, but participants must climb about 12 stairs to reach the rooftop classroom; contact the sanctuary to discuss accommodations if needed.
Project Chimps may cancel classes if minimum participation isn’t met; guests can reschedule if they must change plans, and a full refund is issued only if Project Chimps cancels the class.
Project Chimps operates a sanctuary for retired research chimpanzees in Morganton, providing lifetime care and enrichment for animals transitioned from research settings.
Registration fees support daily care and habitat maintenance; visitors are asked to follow sanctuary rules to minimize disturbance and support long-term welfare.
Project Chimps in Troutdale, Virginia operates a sanctuary and education site where visitors meet and observe rescued chimpanzees. The organization offers a range of guided experiences designed for families, schools, homeschool groups, scouts, and supporters. Tour options include short youth group tours, curriculum-based and homeschool programs aligned with STEM learning, scout badge workshops, and longer service projects for scout troops. Supporter tours and private visits provide opportunities to watch chimpanzees roam, play, and rest in outdoor habitats. Discovery Days bring families to the Blue Ridge Mountains for guided hikes, a visit to the Discovery Zone, and a picnic by the koi pond. The Banana Bus Tour adds door-to-door transport and a snack at The Nest for a convenient group outing. School field trips and curriculum-based tours emphasize inquiry-based lessons that meet educational standards and take place during prime morning viewing hours. Homeschool programs offer three to four hour visits with tailored STEM activities and flexible customization for teachers and students. Scout programs include two hour badge workshops and four to seven hour service projects that combine tours, hands-on activities, and habitat or garden work. Every visit supports the ongoing care of the chimpanzees through small donations and participation. Booking options include private supporter tours, supporter tours with a lunch launch, and group-focused experiences that accommodate educational goals. Visitors can expect guided walking tours through outdoor habitats and multiple program lengths to fit schedules. Advance reservations are recommended to secure preferred dates and times for school groups, scouts, families, supporters, and community attendees.
Book with Project Chimps