Visual Arts

Stratford Academy's Visual Art program offers instruction utilizing a variety of mediums and methods which foster enthusiasm, bolster appreciation and promote genuine artistic exploration. Studying the visual arts at Stratford means creating art. Our faculty encourages students to exercise their personal creativity while showing them how the rigor and reflection that is part of the creative process can help them to turn a rough concept into a finished work of art. Students work in an environment where it’s more than okay to make mistakes knowing that mistakes are a crucial part of the learning process. The Parker Buzzell Gallery adjacent to the front lobby of the school houses displays of student artwork year round.

In Lower School, the emphasis of Stratford's visual arts program is to develop and enhance the skills of each child, while nurturing the special creative talent of each individual student. Creative expression is encouraged while students develop their artistic skills as they explore new techniques related to drawing, painting, comparing, and constructing.

Our Middle School art program develops a strong foundation in the visual elements and principles of art. Students in middle school art are able to become increasingly proficient in drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media. As students learn about artists, different methods and materials, they begin to discover their expressive abilities and strengths.  Middle School art is designed to foster enjoyment and appreciation of art so they can potentially move on to more advanced art classes in high school and beyond.

In Upper School, our art teachers foster a fun and safe studio environment that encourages experimentation with many types of media and the sharing of artistic inspiration. Through a variety of courses including Intro to Art, Drawing, Painting, Three-dimensional Design, Photography, Printmaking, Advanced Art and AP Art and Design , each student has the opportunity to explore, develop and nurture their creative side. Our art students learn to think creatively, use self-expression, and to evaluate, critique, and exhibit their work.

Upper School Visual Art Courses