Trimester II Arts Block classes kicked off last week with a dynamic range of studio intensives for Upper School students. Teaching artists, Phil Knoll, Tom O’Neil, Max Spitzer, and Ben Evans bring their unique skills and philosophies to these courses that balance experimental processes with technical instruction. With the common goal of creating art-making experiences that challenge, inspire, and provoke the way in which our students express ideas, instructors are committed to crafting meaningful journeys of investigation and discovery.
In his Painting class, Mr. O’Neil encourages students to engage in an ongoing dialogue as they work and rework their individual painting surfaces. Last week, the class used a variety of dry and wet media to experiment with additive and subtractive methods of creating depth and interest.
“It’s in the details” was the theme of Mr. Knoll’s latest Drawing With Confidence class. With an individualized, hands-on approach, Mr. Knoll models techniques and concepts in a way that promotes courage, creative risk-taking, and a “just do it” attitude.
The Sculpture studio is an active, physical space where students work with traditional and non-traditional materials on a large scale. With a process-based philosophy, Mr. Spitzer challenges students to solve problems, manipulate a variety of media, and learn the vocabulary necessary to be able to articulate ideas and make informed criticisms.
Form follows function in Mr. Evans’ Functional Tableware ceramics class. Last week, students looked at and discussed wares of different styles, time periods, and cultures. Students continued to work on their own pieces as they learned about wax resist application and methods of surface decoration.
Stay tuned for more Visual Arts news from the Lower and Middle School as well as a save-the-date notice for our next Open Studios event!
Lyle came home with the most beautiful ceramic vase. We love it! Thank you.