Art Studio and Art History

Students have Art Studio once a week for 1 1/2 hours. Art History is integrated into Art Studio time. Art history projects and discussions are designed to reinforce a student's knowledge of a particular art period or artist. Over a period of three years, art of the ancient world is reviewed. Individual artists are also explored starting with the Renaissance period and ending with contemporary artists.

As young artists, students explore the elements of art, line, shape, color, form and texture.  We use different media to create 2- and 3-dimensional work. These include drawing and painting materials, clay, paper mache, printmaking, plaster and fibers.   One month in the school year is dedicated to intensive clay work, with work brought to completion using our on-site kiln. Although most work is done individually, students also have opportunities to work collaboratively. Each student's book-style portfolio is used to store work and provides an opportunity to review past work and rework if a student feels the need. Students are encouraged to evaluate their art and write about it in their portfolios.

Each year, students enjoy either a presentation from a visiting artist or an art-related field trip or both. Often student art work is employed in "all school" projects such as creating backdrops for school plays. At times, art studio work coincides with classroom themes. For example, as students learn about the middle ages, they explore tapestry and weaving in the art studio.

In May, we celebrate all our hard work by turning the whole school into a gallery and inviting families to attend a "Celebration of Art!" event.

Music and Drama

Students have one hour of music class per week. Along with rhythm and music theory, students are provided with various performance experiences during a three-year period. Drama is also explored in many ways. For example, students may adapt a book into a play, or write and perform their own play.

Music history is discussed and reinforced by listening to music from different time periods or listening to a visiting musician(s).   Students have the opportunity to view and try out many different instruments and to perform with other musical artists. A Spring Concert is held at the end of each school year.

Yoga

Yoga is the ancient Eastern practice of deep stretching, meditation and relaxation which works to unite body, mind and spirit. Children are naturally attracted to the movement and challenge of the Yoga postures. Each Yoga class at Bridgeview consists of greeting, breathing, warm-ups, postures and deep relaxation. We use songs and games to enjoy the lightheartedness and joy of movement. Breathing is at the core of Yoga, and children become still and peaceful as they focus on their breath. The Yoga postures help improve balance, flexibility and strength in all muscles of the body.