Art classes stretch students to explore the visual and invisible aspects of our world. Students are taught techniques that allow them discover and understand the elements of art and principles of design. From there, the students are able to critically approach bigger ideas, such as identity, power, belief, and fantasy. Students are then asked to produce works that express their personal connections to these larger concepts. Looking at both traditional and contemporary works, students are engaged in defining and practicing what art will be for their generation.

Student Testimonials:

Art class demands that you explore yourself because everything you compose says something about who you are and what you believe in. It is not just learning technical details and facts… We can tackle issues about the world and ourselves just by painting. That is the power of art.
Arthur, Class 2007

Art can be used as a personal quest to the darkest or richest corners of your existence. Each day the pen hits the paper, lines of flesh and blood are painted.
Matt, Class 2007

I am now able to look deeper into myself and express the story of my life, my experiences, and who I am through my art without being afraid- which brings me to my next point. I’m not as afraid as before about what others say about my work because art is always open to interpretation. I can now see other people’s self expression through their art…and critique the work. Art class is different because it enables a student to look deeper into himself and other people, and to express it through art.
Jonathon, Class 2007

I’ve never really spent time to find out more about who I am. I usually just do what I have to do... By doing these kinds of art, I found out more about my personality and the way I see myself. [I explored my] point of view toward different issues by making connections between myself and other things in the world.
Clarence, Class 2007

In my culture we have a long history. It is important to know it and pass it down to my kids… They can read about it, ask about it. Another way is by showing your history through art. Everybody knows the same language if we make art.
Albert, Class 2009