Visual Arts
The award-winning visual arts program is committed to developing visual skills and creative expression in Early Childhood through grade 12.
Students in the Lower and Elementary Schools are exposed to the visual arts through the fine arts curriculum that emphasizes media exploration, skill development, and creative interpretation. Younger students are exposed to two- and three-dimensional visual arts in their classrooms with a variety of materials. Formal studio art instruction begins in Kindergarten/Montessori Kindergarten and includes the study of art from different cultures and eras.
Middle School students have numerous opportunities to participate in the visual arts through formal instruction or after school programs. Middle School classes emphasize skill foundations, art appreciation, studio applications, and the development of a creative “voice.” In addition to traditional studio classes, students in grades 6 and 7 have the opportunity to take an art/technology class called CyberArts.
Upper School visual art students compete successfully in local, regional, and national exhibitions. Students excel in arts competitions, work side-by-side with artists in residence, host internationally recognized visiting artists, and participate in projects committed to social awareness. Some recent projects and awards have included the following:
- EXPOSURE Photography Grant, 2006-2009
- Ohio Arts Council Artist in Residency Grant, 2006-2008
- Scholastic Arts and Writing Regional Competition, Gold and Silver Keys, 2004-2008
- Regional and State Governor’s Awards, 2004-2006
- Scholastics Arts National Gold Key, 2006
- National Foundation for the Advancement of the Arts (NFAA) scholarship, 2005
- Photo Imaging Educators Association (PIEA) 1st, 2nd, honorable mention, 2004
Students are also exposed to the arts through an interdisciplinary course in Humanities, a year-long program that closely integrates studio art skills with 9th grade history and English courses. As they progress through their visual arts experience, students experience course offerings such as Art I, II, III; Clay; Photography I, II, III; and Honors/AP Portfolio in Two-Dimensional Design and Drawing.
