The art program is one part of the school that is sometimes overlooked.  However, the art department produces creative projects by hardworking students every year, specifically the Advanced Art classes.  So far this year, the class’ focus has been on drawing with pencil, charcoal, and the techniques that go along with those mediums.

“We’ve been working a lot on the elements of art, which is the backbone of our program,” said art teacher Mrs. Concascia.  Senior Breana Robinson feels that she has improved on creating values this year; value being one of the elements of art. Breana explained, “In doing so, I’ve made my work much more realistic looking.”

Breana’s favorite art project so far this year has been the “Miniature World” assignment.  “You are working from observation,” Breana explained.  “You have to choose a minimum of five objects to blow up to fit the entire paper. You then include yourself interacting with the objects.”  This addition causes the objects to seem about ten sizes too big, while the artists are ten sizes too small: a very interesting way to view simple objects.

Mrs. Concasia hopes that her advanced art students realize that art surrounds them in their everyday life, and it is not just confined to the classroom.  She explained,  “I want them to better themselves as artists through this class and of course, have fun!”

However, the art department will soon offer more courses in the 2015-2016 school year. When asked about what is in store for the art program next school year, Mrs. Concascia replied, “Big changes! The whole curriculum will be redesigned.”  Some of the subjects that are in the works are digital art, painting, mixed media, drawing and clay. There will also possibly be an AP class for those students who are serious about art.

Mrs. Concascia believes that these changes will greatly improve the art program at WHS.  “More variety equals more interest and more fun.”  She also explained that these new classes will open up the schedule and allow more students to take art.

In the past, if a student knew they were not a strong drawer, they wouldn’t want to take an art class.  However, starting next school year, classes focusing on a variety of art skills will be available and draw new students into the program.