Gaia Kaye

For over a decade, I have worked with art students while they are developing their AP Studio Art portfolios. I find the most critical aspect is guiding students in creating artwork and writing that reflects their unique, personal vision. I strive to help students throughout the year to create work that is personal and meaningful to them. We initially plan and brainstorm a wide range of concepts before they select a Topic of Inquiry that truly resonates with them individually. Having worked for years with students who are exceptional artists, I find that many have difficulty in articulating their artistic choices. I employ multiple means of expression, putting students at ease to informally refine their writing and thinking processes. Primarily, I break writing tasks into smaller prompts, provide written feedback from peers and myself following class critiques, and take notes during individual conferences.

While producing work, I work with students to hone their completed work and refine their concept to center upon the most succinct vision for their work. Individual conferences and critiques provide students with feedback about the meaning others derive from their art. Often, students will revise subsequent pieces based on feedback from critiques. As we approach the College Board submission deadline, I encourage students to rework 1-2 pieces made earlier in the year. Based on the skills and mental winnowing that occurs when producing multiple pieces for their sustained investigation, most students experiment with composition, mark making, or media selection on their final pieces and are happier with the finished product.

The Buchholz Art Department has a rich tradition in our annual Spring Art Show. While students of all class levels and media have work in group displays, AP Art and Design students have a unique opportunity to display their portfolio work in a personal showcase. AP students sit alongside their work and are available to answer questions as people view their art. The Spring Art Show occurs during the school day, allowing teachers and students to visit the exhibit. Parents, school board members, and other community stakeholders come to Buchholz for the event. Judges select exemplary work in a variety of categories and prizes are awarded.

As an educator, I feel it is important to allow students to explore artwork about difficult topics and experiences, but I would never suggest or expect students to delve into topics that are painful to revisit. Choosing to create artwork that documents and reflects personal struggle should always be a student’s choice. Gaia chose to create beautiful, emotional artwork about some of the darkest and most challenging chapters in her life. Her work was consistently engaging, relatable, evocative, and mature. Gaia’s written evidence states her desire to: “Display not only obvious signs but also the hidden miniscule details.” The choice to include both overt and subtle drew curious viewers. Gaia’s classmates were always in awe of her work; beautifully rendered images sometimes hinting and other times screaming depictions of isolation, hopelessness, fear, loss of control and sense of self. It was a joy working with Gaia as she created work for her AP Art Portfolio. While she had an assured vision, she was open to suggestions and feedback. I am proud not only of the finished portfolio but the artistic endeavor, vulnerability, strength, and tenacity she sustained throughout the year in pursuit of this phenomenal portfolio. Working with Gaia undoubtedly made me a stronger teacher.

I am incredibly proud of our AP Art and Design program because it fosters a vibrant community of creativity and dedication. Our students, especially Gaia, consistently impress with their talent, originality, and willingness to push artistic boundaries, creating works that not only showcase their skills but also tell compelling stories. This success is made possible by our passionate and inspiring teacher, Mrs. Lugrin, who nurtures their growth, encourages their individuality, and challenges them to excel. Together, they have built a program that reflects the power of art to inspire, connect, and transform.

I wholeheartedly support visual arts programs at Buchholz High School because they provide students with an essential outlet for creativity, self-expression, and critical thinking. These programs cultivate unique perspectives, nurture artistic talent, and foster a sense of confidence and accomplishment in our students. Beyond the creation of art, they teach valuable life skills such as perseverance, collaboration, and problem-solving. By investing in our visual arts programs, we are empowering our students to dream big, think boldly, and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

School leaders can support an AP Art and Design program by fostering a culture that values and prioritizes the arts as an essential component of a well-rounded education. This includes providing adequate funding for quality materials, dedicated studio spaces, and professional development for teachers. Leaders can also celebrate student achievements by showcasing their work through exhibitions, competitions, and community events, emphasizing the importance of artistic endeavors. By championing the program, school leaders empower students to explore their creativity and achieve academic and personal success.