“Religion and art spring from the same root and are close kin.” – Willa Cather
For all grades, the core of the lessons and projects undertaken are the seven elements and principles of art. These inform how artwork is both created and viewed, so these are the building blocks of both our lessons and projects. In addition, a passion for creative expression is encouraged, to both assist students in their artistic journey while in school, and to prepare students for a future after education where the ability to express their own viewpoint will be an essential part of life. Students are introduced to several different materials and mediums that they will experiment with, whether in their sketchbook, in a group collaboration, or in a finished art piece. In addition, art history is integrated into class time.
All students (PreK-8) come to art once a week. Some examples of grade level projects include: 5th grade learns about the history and process of crafting medieval texts like the Book of Kells to create their own illuminated manuscript page. 6th grade uses the concept of repetition and assemblage to create intricate papercraft sculptures. 7th grade creates a handmade zine of their own design that they then copy and distribute throughout the school. 8th grade creates personal crosses using sheet copper in a carving/tooling process integrating Christian symbols and themes to show their faith journey.
Annually students can particpate in our Student Art Showcase, which showcased over 100 artworks in a variety of mediums and sizes from all grades at SJNCS. During our standardized testing week, our entire school c0mmunity particpates in an outdoor “Chalk Walk” with chalk drawings throughout our campus, culminating in the “Walk of Faith” around St. John Neumann Church.