Inspiring the Young Artist
By: Addison Gainey, Senior Staff Writer
Have you ever been in an art class at St. Joe and wondered, “Why does this have to be a required class?” Some students may not see the importance of having an art class; certainly, learning about art is not nearly as important as, say, math or science. However, the value of art class lies not just in its content but in the impact it has on a young person's life.
It is common for students to believe they cannot make meaningful art because they are a “bad artist.” However, this is not true. Many people believe that the ability to make art is something you are born with, a talent you either have or do not. What many people don’t realize is that art is a skill that can be developed, just like playing a sport or learning to play a musical instrument. Everything from creativity to brush control can be developed with enough time and dedication.
The art department at St. Joseph's Academy is for everyone, from aspiring artists to students who don’t enjoy creating art. The goal of art classes is to develop the skills of the young artist. Ms. Nasser, a teacher in the fine arts department at St. Joe, shares how she has seen art impact her students.
“Some students don’t realize that it is a skill you can improve at rather than a talent. I love seeing it bring people joy and finding out they enjoy it and that it is something they can learn,” Ms. Nasser said.
Not only do art classes help to develop artistic skills, but the arts can also have a profound impact on a student's life. It can be a way for students to express themselves creatively in a way not otherwise possible. Art encourages students to view the world through a new lens, allowing them to find beauty in everyday things. According to the official St. Joe website: “The Fine Arts Department endeavors to make art a dynamic influence in the life of the school so that students and faculty can become more aware of the beauty surrounding them. The department emphasizes the long-lasting effect of fine arts and its impact on students’ lives.”
Ava Swan, a senior at St. Joe, shares something impactful that she learned through her art classes at the academy.
“I tend to be really hard on myself because I do art projects outside of school, so I'm always trying to push myself to be better. I realized that not everything has to be bigger and better. If I’m proud of it, I can just be happy with my work instead of pushing myself to create this like a Leonardo da Vinci piece. I am learning to be happy with my work.”
The art department has a long history at the academy. Since the school’s founding in 1840, the arts have been interconnected with the long-standing traditions and values of St. Joe. It sits at the cornerstone of the academy's mission to educate the total young woman.
The importance of art can be traced all the way back to the early foundations of the academy. The original sisters of St. Joseph used the art form of lacemaking, which involves using a needle and thread to make lace, to support themselves and the ministry. This income allowed them to serve the dear neighbour at the beginning of the ministry. They also taught poor women and children the art of lacemaking, which helped them support their own livelihoods as well. Lacemaking was an important aspect of the sisters’ lives and ministry: “As an integral part of their lives and time together, lace began to weave its way into the tradition and spirituality of the Sisters of St. Joseph.”
Lace is just one of the many ways art has helped form the mission of the academy. Art classes have been taught since the founding of the academy, showing just how integral it is for students. Today, there are a multitude of classes students can take to develop their artistic passion, such as painting, ceramics, acting, drawing, and more. There is something for everyone, whether they are interested in the fine arts, the performing arts, or the graphic arts.
Not only does the academy provide art classes as part of the curriculum, but there are also a plethora of other resources provided for students who want to take their skills to the next level. Clubs, such as the art club, allow students to create art in a fun, low-stakes environment after school. Students interested in performing can take part in the school productions, which happen three times a year in the fall, winter, and spring. The national art honors society is another way for juniors and seniors to improve their skills at a higher level.
Events are another way for students to express themselves and foster an appreciation for the arts. For example, the art show in the spring showcases works made by students to celebrate their hard work and effort. Similarly, the Christmas with the Angels concert is a performance that showcases the amazing talent of the Frontenac voices and the gorgeous music from the instrumental ensemble.
Overall, the art department at St. Joe is a wonderful aspect of the school that strives to develop the young artist. The arts are essential to the school and allow it to be what it is today. Art is a way for students to develop their skills and express themselves creatively. The art department is just one of the many things that make St. Joseph's Academy a balanced and innovative institution.
