Visual Arts

The Visual Arts Department at The Wardlaw+Hartridge School believes that art is a universal language that transcends boundaries of nations, age, race, and religion. Creating art offers an avenue for self-expression, and the study of art appreciation encourages students to understand the world around them, as well as develop compassion and empathy. Our art curriculum conveys our commitment to educating the whole student and reflects our philosophy that art is an integral part of education that enriches our students.  

In the Upper School, all Visual Arts courses are elective courses. Students have the opportunity to select studio level courses such as those focused on the basic principles of art and design, and they may progress to specialized or advanced courses such as those in sculpture, art history, or advanced placement. The Visual Arts faculty are dedicated faculty masters in their craft and practicing artists themselves. We believe that a visual arts education must be student-centered and expressive in spirit.

Coursework in the Visual Arts serves the purpose of a variety of visual arts classes providing in-depth opportunities to communicate creative ideas within the structured framework of a traditional art education. Students learn about the language of visual arts, including art elements and principles, and refine their knowledge of composition. Students continue to examine various kinds of art forms from around the world through hands-on, practical work. Students experiment with a variety of media to unfold their artistic ideas.

The Visual Arts Department believes that the art is a crucial component in the education of every student. Each day in the art studio promotes creative thinking and problem-solving skills in a creative environment that reflects the unique perspectives of our diverse student body.

 The Visual Arts promotes creative thinking and problem-solving through a variety of media and an environment that reflects the unique perspectives of our diverse student body.