In the Lower School visual arts program, a variety of 2-D and 3-D media are presented as students explore the creative process through drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, fiber arts, etc. Primer students have two 40 minute classes each week. Grades 1-4 have one 40 minute class each week. Visiting artists present special programs during the year for each grade, where students create individual and group projects for the permanent collection. Students practice basic art skills and techniques each year while learning to apply the elements and principles of design to express their ideas, experiences, and imagination.
The PYP Units of Inquiry provide a relevant and authentic context for students to respond creatively through media to classroom topics. At each grade level, students investigate artists, artworks, and cultures. They learn about the purposes of art in the past and present. They recognize many different kinds of art and participate in making informed judgments about artworks. Fourth graders present a weekly Art Review to the school audience. They inform about the many ways to create, enjoy, and interpret artwork. 3rd and 4th grade students can participate in a weekly extracurricular program, Art Club.