Oftentimes, students think that they’re either born with artistic ability or lack of it. However, these art students prove that with hard work and practice some truly amazing art can be created, and those that don’t appreciate it, just have simply not found which style they enjoy yet.
“Don’t be afraid to take art classes. Myself and all of the other art teachers are here to help you guys. It’s a great way to relieve stress and have fun during a tiring school day,” art teacher Rachel Michaud said. She urges that no one should feel intimidated by art, no matter their weaknesses and strengths, and that art can be appreciated by anyone.
“I use art as a way to relax and unwind from schoolwork and stress,” senior and talented art student Zofia Maziarz said.
There is a huge variation of art classes at ELHS, from Drawing and Painting to Ceramics and Photography. With so many different styles of art, it’s hard to find what style one holds the most admiration for, but every style can be fun and calming. Senior Jayla Washington has experienced many different styles of art throughout the years, yet she has found that photography is her favorite.
“It is like capturing a moment to make it last forever,” Washington said.
Although Washington loves photography, she also enjoyed the other art classes she took.
“Ceramics was really fun. It’s not typically the type of art that I do, but it’s good to expand,” Washington said.
With Ceramics, you can build from your mistakes, but with Photography, it takes trial and error and much patience.
Meanwhile, Maziarz found that painting is her favorite art style, and loves working with acrylics and watercolor.
“There are no limitations and you can just do what you want. I have always loved painting even when I was little. I guess it stuck with me in high school which is when I really picked it up,” Maziarz said.
Art classes offered at ELHS include Illustration, 2D Art, Ceramics, Crafts, Advanced Art, and AP Studio Art. Illustrations and 2D Art include some fundamentals of art that can be expanded by taking other art classes. The classes all vary from different art styles as students can expand their artistic knowledge and learn what interests them. Many of the classes have a second class that students can take if they want to advance.
“The second level class is basically everything they have learned in the foundational class, but it’s more independent and project driven,” Ms. Michaud said.
Whether students struggle or exceed with their artistic abilities, there is always room for improvement and fun if they take any of the art classes ELHS offers.
“I have always enjoyed art, but taking art classes in high school has sparked my interest even more,” Maziarz said. Art classes can only be advantageous at ELHS and there is no reason to be afraid of something so beautiful.
