Morris Museum Exhibits Student Art from The Peck School

Peck’s unique studio arts program incorporates the study of various artists and their work into student projects. The basic elements of design are introduced in kindergarten and are reinforced and expanded upon throughout the grades. The rudimentary language of art and its applications to the creative process eventually leads to more in depth looks at various artists and their impact on society. Weaving and masks celebrate the tradition of Native Americans.

 

Joint projects such as art and woodworking often relate to specific classroom study and help to foster skills of observation and creative expression. All students learn the basics of drawing, painting, sculpture and ceramics. Whenever possible, art projects are designed to support and enrich the instruction in Math, Language Arts and Science. 

 

Upper School students gain a rich visual art experience that challenges their ability to think creatively, strengthens their eye for observation, enhances their artistic skills, and marries an understanding of both historic and contemporary art. Students explore a breadth of experiences that range from traditional mediums such as clay sculpture, ink brushwork, and canvas painting, to the cutting-edge technology experiences of digital drawing, laser cutting, and stop motion animation. Students gain a deeper understanding of art and one’s self as they investigate the role of the artist in our world, examine the power of art to foster change, and develop individual artistic identity.

 

Lower School Art Teacher, Karen Dispenziere says, “Through their work, students are encouraged to problem solve, consider multiple perspectives, and experiment as they innovate new concepts and designs that enliven their connections to the overall learning experience. Art is a global conversation where everyone has a voice, and, at Peck, students use theirs to speak volumes.”

 

Children's education has been an intrinsic part of the Morris Museum since its founding in 1913. The museum has actively worked to enhance programs for children and to establish a link between museum offerings and the curriculum of area schools. The most well known student exhibition is the annual Fresh Perspectives exhibit. Now in its 29th year, this exhibit provides artistically accomplished New Jersey high school students a professionally organized museum exhibition and recognizes the art teachers for their encouragement and teaching. The museum also works with local colleges, universities and grade schools to showcase the talents of local emerging artists. 

 

The National Art Education Association had also designated March as Youth Art Month, with thousands of American schools participating, often with the involvement of local art museums and civic organizations. For more information on the Morris Museum, visit morrismuseum.org. For more information on The Peck School’s arts, athletics, and academics programs, visit peckschool.org