The Elementary Art Program ...

… introduces children to the world of visual arts by showing them how to “see” the world in all its natural and created beauty. Within a supportive and non-judgmental workspace, they are stimulated to act upon their creative impulses and create original works of art. Under the aesthetic and practical guidance of a professional artist, they learn that the creative process is as important as an artistic result.

Each class has two art classes each week (with one double period studio time). Techniques are introduced, such as color mixing, strip painting, stenciling, crayon resist, paper sculpture, rubbings, still-life, and more. The children work in a variety of media, including tempera, watercolors, collage, weaving, sculpture, and ceramics. Though individual work is paramount, collaborative work is also practiced when the class creates projects for the annual school auction and props for the two annual school plays.

With each project, children experience the complete artistic process, from the conception of an idea, through planning and design, to the completion of a presentable work of art. They also learn to properly care for their creations, tools, and workspace. Their finished artwork is routinely displayed throughout the school to be enjoyed by the entire community.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, a mere six blocks away, is a frequent destination for field trips, as are The Guggenheim Museum, The China Institute, The Cloisters, The Botanical Gardens, and others. In response to numerous museum visits, videos, slides, and posters, the children learn to recognize, value, and express with confidence their own artistic lpreferences. At the same time, they gain an appreciation of culture and history by studying the form and function of art in different times and places.