Students visited The Rockwell in January to see and discuss the art in the Museum’s collection. They considered how history influences artists, and that art is often created in response to current events. Students also viewed the Alley Art Project: Beyond the Walls exhibition to gain a broader understanding of public art and the impact it has on communities. Within this exhibition, students looked closely at the Diné (Navajo) weavings that inspired two murals in our community. In the galleries, students explored on their own and were prompted to examine media (materials), symbolism and the narrative that different works of art convey. They were encouraged to make inferences about what they saw to develop critical thinking skills and gain a deeper understanding of the artwork.
In their choice-based art class, students experimented with media, techniques and artistic processes to create their own artwork that expresses their personal identities connected to the community groups in which they feel they belong. The choice-based art curriculum at ASMS allows students to choose the artistic style and materials they are curious about, catering to the individual interests and needs of each student. On view are their unique, one-of-a-kind creations that are interwoven with personal and community connections.