Blending academics and healing
Grand Prairie School, Onarga Academy's on-campus school, is well into its first year as a private junior/senior high school and has expanded its curriculum-based fine arts program. Students now have the opportunity to express themselves in both art classes featuring drawing, painting, pottery and sculpting instruction, and in music classes featuring voice and instrumental instruction.
I love art!
Brenda Lewis, art instructor, begins class in her recently designed
art studio, by asking each student about his plans for the class period.
One student chooses the potter's wheel, while another sculpts his individual
chess game pieces.
The students participated in transforming a previous storage room into an energizing creative arts studio, by cleaning, refinishing furniture and painting. The renovation was completed in January. The inviting studio features two kilns, several potter's wheels, as well as the necessary equipment and supplies required for the young artists to complete inspiring works of art.
Art classes blend art history, theory and practice to spark each student's creativity. According to Lewis, "Art has the power to take us out of the moment, but all that we are goes back into the piece."
Some examples of projects include: tiles, plates, bowls, plaques, vases and candle holders. Each project incorporates several art forms, including drawing, sculpting and painting.
One student beams as he explains, "I love art," while another claims that working on art projects reduces stress.
Igniting creative abilities
Across campus, Music Instructor Becky Bailey begins class by playing a
musical masterpiece on her flute. When finished, she asks the class, "Who
is the composer?" With each student response, Bailey describes characteristics
of each composer's work, until the correct composer
is identified.
Music classes blend music history, theory and practice to ignite each student's creative abilities. New to the program this year is the availability of several instruments including; alto saxophone, trumpet, clarinet, viola, guitar, keyboards, and percussion (drums, and bongos). Each student has the opportunity to choose an instrument; many students play a variety of them. In addition, they are encouraged to test their vocal abilities.
Students learn how to read music, but some individuals are gifted with the ability to play by ear. For example, one versatile student plays a blues medley on the keyboards and later plays The Eagles 1977 hit Hotel California on acoustic guitar-by ear.
Personal accomplishments
Undoubtedly, the healing nature of the new fine arts program inspires
young men at Onarga Academy to appreciate a variety of art, music and
cultures, while developing a sense of personal accomplishment.