A variety of vibrant projects, paintings and sculptures adorn the hallways and walls of the Unified Arts building. The work of art students around the school is proudly displayed.
The high school offers a mix of art classes for all different levels and grades. Students typically take some of these classes as a part of their curriculum requirement. Art classes might only count as elective credit, but they are a significant step toward attaining a well-rounded education, which allows students to follow their passions and future endeavors.
Art students can use their knowledge to provide themselves with an extra skill set which can be useful for work opportunities after high school.
Visual Arts teacher Sabine Strauch said that there are foundation classes for students to get involved with art as beginners or to just improve their skills.
“Students at BHS have the opportunity to take a wide variety of art classes that span across a multitude of art disciplines, many of which are multi-level,” Strauch said. “Many students feel intimidated stepping into a high school art class for the first time, but remember that foundation classes are designed for students of any level and grade.”
Visual Arts Curriculum Coordinator Donna Sartanowicz said that art classes contribute to a complete education and create a new perspective for students.
“Working artistically allows you to take all of your knowledge and experience from other classes and from your life outside of school and use that to inspire your work,” Sartanowicz said.
According to Strauch, students who are trying to pursue art after high school can face challenges in their career journey.
“If you aren’t majoring or minoring in Fine Art in college or if you have a time-consuming job, it can be hard to find time for art making. Many students also find themselves struggling to decide whether to pursue art as their career because it is largely viewed as a non-lucrative path,” Strauch said.
Sartanowicz said that despite the struggles, art students with art experience can still find opportunities to use their skills.
“Perhaps the biggest challenge for art students is the public perception that there is no specific job you can apply for called “artist.” However, many jobs you can apply for utilize the creative thinking skills, communication skills and making skills that you will develop in an art class,” Sartanowicz said.
Digital photography teacher Lori Lynn said that following an art career is about the passion and love for it.
“Students can feel unsure about studying art after high school, but one thing I always say is that if you look around you, you will see art and design everywhere in our world. It is a misconception that being an artist is not a good career,” Lynn said. “You choose art because you love it. If that’s your passion and that’s what you want to do, I don’t see any reason to not pursue it.”
