By: Eleni King Martin

McCaskey is known for having a fantastic performing arts department, and great athletic teams, including the track and field and wrestling teams. However, the lesser known art department, though just as accomplished, is another amazing part of our school. For the students who don’t wish to be limited to the required 0.5 credits of art, there is a whole world of opportunities to choose from. After taking Foundations of Art, students can take drawing and painting, digital art, and even AP and IB art classes! 

In AP 2d: Studio Art, students have the opportunity to focus their skills on drawing, painting, collage, and any other medium they prefer. Sophomore Ayah Merli says, “I love that it [art] enables me to express myself; I find I can use art to portray my thoughts better than I can use words to.” Students are able to explore more creative sides of themselves and take a break from the academic rigor of high school classes. Art classes can serve as a winding down time for students, and can even allow them to find new hobbies. 

Have you ever created something from clay? Well, our Clay 1-4 and AP 3d: Studio Art students have! In this class, students are able to explore 3d mediums, most commonly pottery/ceramics. Senior Rachelle Kwitch says, “AP 3d has given me the opportunity to explore ceramics more in depth and gives me an outlet to express my emotions.” This program is one of the more unique at McCaskey, as not many high school level classes offer access to ceramics everyday. We are so fortunate to have unique art programs like these!

Lastly, our IB art program, similar to AP, is full of talented students! IB art is a two-year course where students create a portfolio centered around a theme chosen by each student. Senior Cal Clapper says, “I love IB art because I think it’s the first time in your high school career that you get to explore mediums and themes in your work that you actually care about. You get to figure out what you want to do with your own art, instead of just sticking to an assignment.” 

Even extracurricular groups like Mural Club and Art Club give back to our community in the form of artistic expression! These clubs create amazing works of art and rarely get recognition for them. So, next time you walk the halls of JP or East, notice all the beautiful art the students have spent so much time working on. Thank you to our art department and its students!