Visual Arts at Stratford –
Self-Exression Soars
In the art room at Stratford, students learn to experiment, revise, and take risks. They build patience and persistence as they work through challenges and learn that mistakes are a natural part of the creative process. They also practice empathy by exploring different perspectives through storytelling and learning to give and receive feedback in a respectful way.
Whether a student goes on to become an artist or not, visual arts prepares them to think critically, advocate for their ideas, and approach the world with curiosity and confidence.
Drawing
Students use a variety of drawing mediums including graphite, white and black charcoal, marker, colored pencil, pastel, acrylic and watercolor paint, and a few non-traditional drawing mediums. Students will be introduced to a variety of drawing concepts including composition, perspective, and drawing from observation.
Painting
Acrylic painting will be the primary medium, but students will also dabble with oil pastel, soft pastel, and watercolor. Realistic, abstract, and non-objective styles of painting will be introduced. Basic color theory will be reviewed in this course, and advanced color theory will be introduced.
Ceramics
In Ceramics, students have the opportunity to learn the methods of hand-built clay construction and glazing and explore 3D design while developing both functional clay pieces and other sculptural forms. Students learn a broad history of ceramics including clay vocabulary and tools.
Photography
Photography students learn how to see and compose through a 35mm film camera, develop and print film in the darkroom, and explore photographic design and expression. Students are also introduced to digital photography and practice the exhibition of their work.
Virginia Parker Buzzell Gallery
The Virginia Parker Buzzell Gallery is right outside of the Henry Harding Tift Auditorium. Since 1992, it has showcased exceptional student art.
Virginia Parker Buzzell was a bright and shining Stratford student in the 1980s. Fellow students and teachers knew Parker for her intellectual curiosity and the genuine kindness she showed to everyone. Wise beyond her years, Parker’s brave and courageous spirit brought joy to her family and friends.