Art
Step into our Lower School art specialist class, and you'll discover more than meets the eye.
Kindergarten students might be shaping pinch pots from a ball of clay - developing their fine motor skills and discovering self expression through texture and form. First graders may be intently studying a mentor artwork, strengthening their observation skills. Fifth graders might be carefully crafting a piece of representational art, adding shadow and highlight to bring their work to life with depth and precision.
Our burgeoning artists draw, paint, sculpt, work with collage and mixed media. They have access to a wide variety of materials, including crayons, oil pastels, markers, tempera sticks, tempera and acrylic paints, clay, collage and fiber.
In the early years, students explore tools like paint brushes and mixing colors, while practicing simple compositions. By second grade, they are introduced to principles of art such as balance and movement. In fourth and fifth grade, students refine their artistic skills and explore more advanced techniques.
In addition to gaining art skills, students also explore what it means to be a beauty creator. They learn to recognize truth, goodness, and beauty in the world, and to see every person as an image bearer of God—full of honor and dignity. Through the creative process, they develop a growth mindset: learning from mistakes, valuing feedback, and improving through practice.
We teach students to be 'beauty creators' who can recognize truth, goodness, and beauty in the world. They also learn to see that each person, including themselves, is an image bearer and is created in the image of God.
Art in Action
In art class, students have access to diverse learning experiences that emphasize exploration of materials, process art over perfection and individual and collaborative work. Part of this learning includes learning about the lives of various artists and the importance of their work. Using the masterworks as inspiration, students create their own piece - modeling their work after the techniques used by the mentor artist.
Celebrating the Creative Spirit
The Masterwork: At the beginning of the year, students read the story "The Dot" by Peter H. Reynolds, a story about a girl who thinks she can't draw.
The Project: Each student then draws their own dots - both simple or complex and are reminded that they are creative and artists! Students then expand their learning into concentric circle and radial "kaleidoscope" designs by studying masterworks.
Why It Matters: This sets the stage for authentic expression throughout the year, and the value of taking risks, stepping out of their comfort zone, and building a welcoming environment for everyone.
Mentor Artist: Alma Thomas
The Masterwork: Fifth graders study teacher and artist Alma Thomas, who developed a powerful form of abstract painting. From the mid-1960s, she produced brilliantly colored and richly patterned works connected to the natural world.
The Project: After studying Thomas' work, they created their own art inspired by her iconic masterpieces.
Why It Matters: Alma Thomas' heavily patterned work is a clear example for students as they discover how this artistic element used in an abstract way, can convey powerful meaning and expression.
Mentor Artist: Faith Ringgold
The Masterwork: Second graders learn about Faith Ringgold - an American painter, author, and mixed media sculptor who was best known for her story quilts.
The Project: Inspired by her children's book "Tar Beach," young artists create their own story quilts. They complete the phrase "If I could fly, I would fly over..." and then illustrate their adventure!
Why It Matters: Ringgold's story quilts expand students' understanding of art, and how a traditional craft can be combined with storytelling to create a powerful form of self-expression.
Developing Artists
The art curriculum evolves from kindergarten to grade 5 to support student development by introducing art concepts, skills, and techniques, while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and emotional expression. All students learn to identify elements of art, and grades 2-5 are introduced to the principles of design in art.
Most importantly, students develop a love for art, when they are exposed to diverse artistic expressions and ways to celebrate creativity. The art program introduces students to the works of diverse artists and art movements, which helps them to have a greater understanding and appreciation of art.
Meet Our Art Teacher
Ready to explore elementary school at Minnehaha?
Our admission team will help you experience our classrooms, understand our approach, and determine if it's the right fit for your child.