In our eleven stories, the world of art silently thrives. Its presence is seemingly in the background of student’s bustling everyday lives. Artists’ unique pieces decorate the halls, each telling complex stories. Here, emotions come to life, not in words, but in each stroke, shape, and colorway.
Throughout the year, various art pieces are publicly displayed. This artwork results from rigorous activities students complete based on teachers’ curriculums. So, how do artists channel their creativity through grueling classwork? Well, with each art piece, students are encouraged to differentialize their work. Senior and AP Art student Mary Elle Palma uses this as an opportunity to let off steam. “Using my emotions in my work acts as a form of therapy for me, pushing me through the last 90 minutes of the school day,” Palma said.
Such creative expression from students wouldn’t be possible without the amalgamation of beautiful minds that lead the future of artistry. Ms. Shepard, Ms. Whigtmen, and Mr. Padilla fuel students’ creative capabilities. Step into any art classroom, and you’ll find students creating art in an easy-going environment. Senior and ceramics student Joseph Perez praises this aspect of his learning experience, “Since Ms. Whigtmen always allows us to take our assignments into our own directions, many pieces I’ve worked on deal with the grief I’ve faced throughout high school,” Perez said.
Toward the end of the spring semester, students’ most exceptional pieces from the year are displayed in an exhibit in the atrium. Last semester, senior Kira Watkins had a comparative study assignment for her IB art class displayed in the spring exhibit. Watkins’ multi-media piece ‘Decay’ was inspired by Frida Kahlo’s works and was featured in the Dogwood Art Festival earlier this year. “Decay is my representation of female emotion and its vital connection to the physical world,” she said.
The unspoken power of art sculpts the hearts and minds of students who find solace, therapy, and unbridled creativity in its embrace. At NAHS, educators empower the next generation of artists to tell their stories. As the year continues, the world beholds the artistry within. We witness the profound impact of these dedicated educators and passionate students, reminding us of artistic expression’s power.
