PROGRAMS
Art

Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.
~ Pablo Picasso
Early art experiences may include simple open-ended cutting and gluing activities. The use of colored pencils and getting the "feel" of paints may also be explored during these exercises.
Upon entering the Elementary levels, all students are given formal art instruction through regular art classes in an atmosphere that both accepts and encourages creativity. At all levels, it is the process, not the product, that is considered to be most important.
Drawing instruction is the beginning focus for the Junior, Intermediate and Senior classes. This focus is then revisited several times throughout the school year, as it is the basis for most areas of art. Other mediums used to explore this fundamental skill may include marker, colored pencil, charcoal, different types of paint and print making. Three-dimensional art forms may also be explored through sculpture and pottery.
Whenever possible, projects coincide with lessons from other classes, thus integrating two or more courses of study. Often, it is here that art history plays a role.
One of the largest of these integrations occurs during Opera Week when students are involved in the creation of sets and props in our largest musical event of the year.
The culmination of creativity and hard work occurs during the annual Celebration of the Arts. The halls literally explode with nine months of artwork, which allows both the parents and students the opportunity to visualize the progression and the accomplishments of the school year. A large selection of work is also displayed annually at the Little Red Schoolhouse during the Monroe County Fair in August.
