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Visual Arts

Enhancing Self-Expression with Art

As early as K4, Thomas Heyward Academy students become regular fixtures in the art studio. Here, imaginations are nurtured, creativity is cultivated and encouraged, and self-expression is realized.Beginning as early as PreK, visual art students begin developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while cultivating their self-expression by using various art media and techniques, such as drawing, painting, fiber arts, and sculpture.

Artists build the confidence to create intentional, meaningful choices in their art through collaboration, community-centered projects, and discussions of art criticism, aesthetics, art history, and storytelling. These hands-on opportunities are intended to teach student artists at all levels about the creative process and to also help them develop skills in a wide variety of diverse techniques.

With skilled and caring instruction, students in the Lower School are first introduced to the elements and principles of design through different media. As students progress, their visual art education expands to include the use of space on a two-dimensional surface; linear perspective; the exploration of different drawing media; and advanced color theory. 

In the Middle School, art students create projects based on the elements of art and the principles of design through a variety of media that include painting, drawing, printmaking, , sculpture, textile design, and papermaking.  Art history is brought into the program through exploration and contextualization of artists and art movements with each project. Through hands-on experience, development of technique, and application of concepts, students gain confidence in their skills and hopefully find joy in creating.
 
Upper School students have the opportunity to select art electives that appeal to their specific interests. 

THA Art at a Glance