Visual arts is an integral part of student life at The John Thomas Dye School. The visual arts curriculum allows students at every grade level the opportunity to explore concepts such as self-expression, personal identity, independent thinking, and creative problem solving, through an examination and application of varied media and the techniques of influential artists. A developmentally appropriate, continuous, and sequential study in the visual arts provides for a deeper understanding of cultures, community, and valuable self-reflection.
Both Lower and Upper School students visit the art room weekly. During that time, the Visual Arts Department works to present every child with the opportunity to do the following:
- Utilize current technologies in the creative process
- Develop the ability to constructively analyze, interpret, and evaluate their own artistic choices and the work of peers
- Expand upon their creative and critical thinking skills
- Participate in meaningful group discussions and self-directed learning
- Become aware of and appreciate the idea of verbal and nonverbal artistic communication
The program draws its curriculum from a variety of sources including state and national standards, NAEA guidelines, local cultural and museum offerings, and elements born out of ideals relevant and unique to JTD.
The program encompasses art history, art criticism, aesthetics, design, and production. Art concepts are reinforced and strengthened using activities based on the elements of art and principles of design. Through such outlets as drawing, painting, printmaking, textiles, sculpture, and other fundamental artistic processes, students learn to:
- Make connections between art and other disciplines such as dance, theater, music, math, science and social studies.
- Develop fine and gross motor skills
- Analyze and evaluate art using art vocabulary
- Synthesize other skills, like reading and writing, to analyze each component of their arts education as well as their own personal growth.
- Compare and contrast artwork from different historical time periods and cultures.
The ultimate mission of the JTD Visual Arts Program is to assist each child to reach his or her fullest creative potential in a non-threatening, noncompetitive, and supportive environment. The Visual Arts Department strives for each child to develop self-confidence and a sense of pride as a result of their artistic education and accomplishments.