Visual Arts

The visual arts department at MRA offers an array of opportunities for students to learn the history, materials, techniques, and appreciation of the arts.

On a daily basis, Kindergarten students are exposed to artistic design elements. Our Kindergarten is led by thematic teaching. Multiple art projects are incorporated into each teaching unit to enhance our students’ fine motor skills, creativity, and the understanding of the current week’s lesson. Students are encouraged to explore their creativity, using various media, such as torn paper, pencil drawing, colored pencils, crayons, markers, colored pastels, acrylic paint, and water colors.

Elementary students attend art class once a week for fifty minutes. The students experience a sequential study of the visual arts from the first grade to the fifth grade. The program is designed to expose the students to an array of projects using various media and techniques. The program is built upon the use of the elements and principles of design, the study of artists and their techniques and styles, as well as an overview of art history.

Middle and High school students have the option of semester courses in Drawing I/II, Painting I/II, Ceramics I/II, Printmaking, Digital Photography I/II, and Graphic Design I/II. Students are encouraged to begin a focus of study in the upper-level courses for the option of submitting an AP portfolio. Classes include instruction of techniques, oral critiques, teaching constructive criticism and how to communicate about artwork. Local field trips encourage further appreciation for art in the community, as well as studies of traveling exhibits.

Visual Art Offerings

Elementary Art: 1st - 5th Grades
The students in grades one thru five will experience drawing and painting in various media, including sculpting, weaving, printmaking, glass fusing, and ceramics. The students will have access to a printing press, a glass kiln, a ceramic kiln, and various tools of the trade. Although academic based, self-expression, creativity, and problem solving are encouraged.

MS/HS: 6th—12th Grades