AP Art classes teach a variety of mediums and techniques to allow young artists to flourish and develop their own personal styles. The difficulty of art is often overlooked and classes are dismissed as an “easy A;” however, many art students dedicate their time to perfect their craft while juggling academic classwork. Their ability to be creative in both the studio and classroom is truly unique.
“I feel like many people think [art students] are only passionate about art,” senior Yukio Arita said. “But…most students in art are in really hard classes—like AP [level]–and they actually take time in art classes to relax and still be creative.”
The duality of art lies in its ability to reveal all of the artist’s strengths, while also highlighting weaknesses. Art also encourages growth–even failures can refine an artist’s technique.
“I feel like I tend to go for the same options whenever I’m working [on a project],” Arita said. “So… I’m learning to take on more challenges.”
It’s nearly impossible for artists to not criticize their own work- patience is vital when it comes to creating art as it keeps artists open-minded. Being able to be constructive yet appreciative of one’s work is not an easily aquired skill.
“Most of the time I just have to [say] ‘it is what it is,’ but I’ve learned to embrace mistakes when a project isn’t to my liking,” senior Annabel Ni said.
A majority of these artists have come a long way from Art 1. Although they have developed into seasoned artists, they still rely on basic techniques and strategies. The foundation of art is based on methods such as shading, line art and proportions that help guide artists.
“I would say sketching and definitely getting your ideas out on paper definitely helps,” Ni said. “Because… even in art studio, Miss Gordon will make me sketch out my project before I even start, so [the vision] translates well when you start out.”
It’s no surprise that art is emotionally important to the maker, this has continued to be true with senior Mage Cui.
“I base a lot of my art on… memories and people… because I’m a very sentimental person,” Cui said.
Though most artists are overachievers at heart, they prize the process of creating their pieces. Financial gain has become a secondary motivation to these young artists as they seek fulfillment through their craft.
“My end goal with pursuing art in the future isn’t… to really make money, it’s more about getting to be creative,” Cui said.
Art isn’t meant for everyone; it is meant for those who do immerse themselves in it and truly love visual expression. Though some may love the idea of having a clean-cut corporate job, many artists are drawn to more flexible and sporadic careers.
“I just never envisioned a nine to five for myself-I always wanted a creative job [where I’m] surrounded by creative people,” Cui said. “And I know my dream job would be to be like an art director.”
