Club Spotlight: Inside the world of Art Club

By Lauren Krauklis

Editor in Chief

For some students, expression doesn’t come through essays or speeches—it comes through a paintbrush, a pencil, or a blank canvas. The art club gives students an opportunity to explore their creativity outside of the classroom. 

Art Club members show off their work. Photo courtesy of Ms. Ores.

Hosted by Ms. Ores in room E103, the Monday weekly meetings invite students to explore diverse artistic styles and mediums to create meaningful work that reflects their personal interests. Students can find art club work throughout the school, from walls painted by the students to their work being displayed at The Edge. 

For Ms. Ores, giving students the freedom to show their individuality is an important part of the club. 

“Art club helps students express their creativity by providing the tools, instructions, and opportunities to stretch and grow as artists,” Ms. Ores said.

Art club member Grace Jencko revealed how she believes the club helps students create a piece that represents them.

“It’s a lot less constricting than class, because in class you have to do actual work, assignments, and there's a guideline. There are rules about what you have to do,” Jencko said. “Rather than art club, you can do whatever you want.” 

For many students, the creative independence in what they create makes the club meaningful—art allows them to communicate ideas, emotions, and experiences that may be difficult to put into words, while also giving them the resources to share their work with others. 

Senior Khalil Hawkins said he was inspired to join because he wanted to improve his artistic skills and enjoy the supportive presence of his friends who are able to offer guidance. 

For Hawkins and other members, the club provides an opportunity to practice their artistic skills while creating alongside friends. It also offers a place for students to try something new or work on projects that interest them.

Instead of requiring students to create the same thing or follow rigid instructions that restrict one's creativity. The art club gives its members the ability to work at their own pace to explore their own ideas, whether they are an experienced artist or simply looking for a fun, calming environment and a new way to be creative. 

“I would encourage students to join the art club because it is a very welcoming environment; we get to work on fun projects, help create props for school productions, and hang out with like-minded people,” Ms. Ores said.