Visual Arts Engaging Students in Creativitiy

In the Visual Arts department this semester, there has been a focus on fostering thoughtful, intentional art-making practices. To support this, the integration of the Studio Habits of Mind—developed by Harvard Project Zero—which has identified eight dispositions that artists innately utilize, and is being implemented in our upper-level courses along with the Foundations of Art.  

As practicing artists themselves, Mr. Erny and Ms. Vanek find that these dispositions resonate with their own experiences in their art-making processes. The Studio Habits of Mind prompt students to implement such dispositions that reflect on and identify specific habits that will support them in developing their creative thinking as they work on their projects. For example, by employing “envisioning” or “expressing,” for instance, these dispositions help students articulate their creative thinking processes within their art and design work. It allows students to experiment with various techniques, materials, and styles, making them more connected to their creative choices. 

Additionally, this past month, five of our art students, Ephraim Erny (G10), Lance Oh (G10), Bella Ge (G10), Olivia Wang (G11), and Chloe Zhang (G9), participated in a trial art festival event at SAS Puxi. This event was aimed at attaining representation in APAC for the visual arts. During this three-day event, these art students worked alongside world-renowned graffiti and contemporary artist Kool Koor. Known for his vibrant, dynamic street art, Kool Koor emphasizes themes of identity and community. The theme of this art festival was titled “Moving together: The art of Belonging.” This experience allowed our students to deepen their understanding of contemporary art practices while further developing their creative skills under the guidance of an artist who has made significant contributions to modern and urban art.