(Chris Heermann’18/Media)
Throughout Academy’s history, the fine arts have been an essential elective for students looking to foster their creative capabilities. Some students, eager to try new things, are helped to develop their artistic skills. Other students simply like the relaxing environment these art classes provide.
Recognizing these benefits, Academy has always done its best to provide numerous opportunities for students to be involved with the arts. This year, the major renovation of Morris Hall into a dedicated arts complex has allowed the school to take the fine arts program to another level.
Previously housing several middle-school classrooms, Morris Hall seemed disconnected and out-of-place from the rest of the buildings. Now its sole dedication to the visual arts adds purpose and allows for expansion and reorganization of the art classrooms. The complex helps the school complete its goal of involving more students in the arts by providing more working spaces.
Perhaps the most striking change to the building is the modern architecture and design. The north end is made of almost entirely glass, giving the building an open feel, allowing lots of natural light to flood in.
The elaborate, two-level gallery, is furnished with modern decor, a perfect place for students to display their masterpieces. As Ms. Tursich says, “It is a great place to showcase artwork from students and professionals.”
The most significant change is the addition of new art classrooms and spaces.
The first floor is home to the ceramics room, now much closer to the other fine arts rooms from its previous location in the music lobby. Also on the first floor is the tech department office and the middle school art room.
Spacious studios take up much of the second floor, along with more space to display artwork. Included here is also a photography studio classroom.
This increased number of art classrooms and the centralized location allow for more students to become involved with art at Academy. The new setup is more easily accessible than the previous small, scattered art rooms. The extra space makes it possible for students to partake in more individual art projects.
Academy’s emphasis on the arts provides students the opportunity to have a balanced education, combining rigorous core classes with the chance to express their creative talents in a supportive environment.
Here they can discover new talents, as classes focus on elements and principles of design and composition, allowing students to develop in different areas of learning.
