Visual Arts
As early as Junior Kindergarten, Savannah Country Day School students become regular fixtures in the art studio. Here, imaginations are nurtured, creativity is cultivated and encouraged, and self-expression is realized.
With skilled and caring instruction, students in the Lower School are first introduced to the elements and principles of design through different media. They are also exposed to the lives and works of several famous artists. As students progress, their visual art education expands to include the use of space on a two-dimensional surface; linear perspective; the exploration of different drawing media; and advanced color theory. They also learn the process involved in creating a ceramic object. Knowledge of the elements and principles of design is reinforced and good composition is stressed.
In first through fifth grades, Lower School students enjoy having an art reception in the Edel Gallery at least once per year. At these receptions, parents are invited to join us as we view the artwork, enjoy a snack, and practice the art of the compliment, as students point out something they admire in each other’s work.
In the Middle School, art students create projects based on the elements of art and the principles of design through a variety of media that include painting, drawing, printmaking, hand-built pottery, sculpture, textile design, and papermaking. Art history is brought into the program through exploration and contextualization of artists and art movements with each project. Through hands-on experience, development of technique, and application of concepts, students gain confidence in their skills and hopefully find joy in creating. Middle School Visual Art students participate in two exhibitions each school year, during which the students will learn to prepare their artwork for a gallery show.
Upper School students have the opportunity to select art electives that appeal to their specific interests. After taking Art and Design 101, students may choose from a range of electives including Drawing and Painting, Ceramics, Photography, and Digital Design.
Currently, Upper School art students have one large exhibit each semester. Students submit and have work juried into local exhibits and competitions annually. They participate in the Congressional Art Exhibit, held at Georgia Southern Armstrong Campus, the Georgia Scholastic Art Awards, and the National Scholastic Art Awards. Students design programs and posters for arts and other school events, homecoming t-shirts, and provide other art-related services to the school. In addition, students serve on the Telfair Museum’s Teen Advisory Board. Every other year, advanced art students have the opportunity to travel to New York City to visit museums and galleries and to attend the theatre. Amanuensis, the Upper School literary magazine, offers creative writing and art students a printed outlet for their works and the opportunity to design, jury, edit, and lay out the publication.