Art Programs at SAS

“I believe art is a perfect means for developing higher level thinking skills as well as being a vehicle for excellence in non-competitive achievement. While providing personal development and expression and increased self-esteem, Art classes also give a sense of community and group accomplishment. My goal is to provide classroom structure and instruction in technique without compromising excitement and personal discovery. Art must be a part of life outside the classroom. I relate to and enjoy the presence of Art in all aspects of modern life, but I am also intensely interested in Art from a historical and cultural perspective. I love to prowl in galleries and museums and carry that interest back to the classroom.”

—Margery Johnson,
High School Art Teacher,
Shanghai American School

Margery Johnson’s comments are typical of the enthusiasm and passion in the Art Department of Shanghai American School. SAS offers art classes to all students at the Elementary, Middle and High School levels that encourage visual thinking and the development of technique, skills and creativity.

Courses are structured to develop competence in visual and tactile forms and provide the students with in-depth studies of aesthetic principles as well as art history. SAS students are given hands-on studio experiences in drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, video and mixed media.

Every art room is a unique creative space, well-equipped, often with excellent natural lighting. While the two campuses may vary in terms of time allowances, courses and facilities, in any given classroom you might find easels, pottery wheels, kilns, sink, storage, computers with Internet access—it’s all there for the students’ use. And when a student has completed an art project, ample space is provided to display his or her art work.
In recognition of the unique qualities and perceptual development of each individual, students are guided to discover their own artistic style and means of expression.