Arts Disciplines

The K-12 Visual Arts program at Sun Valley Community School gives students opportunities for creative self-expression and strives to develop a lifelong appreciation for art.

The goal of the Visual Arts Department is to offer opportunities for students to develop their facility with the techniques and processes of the arts as a means of expressing emotions and concepts.

The curriculum is based on observational and expressive artistic expression using a wide range of media and art forms both 2D and 3D. Students are exposed to the elements and principles of design, color theory, and art vocabulary through classroom discussions, critiques, and visual written literacy exercises. Students work towards refinement of sketchbooks, portfolios (including online digital ones), and creation of independent projects.

Concentration on Three Basic Components:

• Visual Language

To provide a resource of visual terms, concepts, artists and functions of art both past and present.

• Aesthetic Process

To develop ideas, refine perceptions, and understand visual elements.

• Productive Skills

Requires an understanding of the properties of a medium, knowledge of a variety of techniques, and a concern for craftsmanship and quality.

Throughout the year we will be working on art that is reflective of the various units taught in the curriculum of the core classrooms. We will consider how we are influenced by the natural world and past artists. We will also observe how we influence other people by our decisions, actions, and words.

Elementary School
Elementary performing arts includes two main components: dance and drama. The program begins in kindergarten and focuses on creative exploration.

Drama instruction provides opportunities for students to mature and develop tools of the actor: the voice, the body, and the imagination. Older students focus on the fundamentals of theater, such as working on a stage, basic acting techniques and theater terminology. Students learn how to improve their focus, self-confidence, and social skills.

Dance instruction focuses on creative movement and promotes individual expression, imagination, and cooperation with the group. As students explore the power of moving, they find new ways to express themselves and interact with classmates in a positive and joyful environment. Older students experience choreography using the principles of Laban: Space, Shape, Effort and Time.

Students in grades K-5 perform in at least two productions a year in Sun Valley Community School's Theatre (Theater?), and also participate in other performances throughout the year, including Grandfriends' Day, Community Meetings, and Moving Up Ceremonies.

Middle School
The Middle School embraces the, "If you want to be in it, you’re in!” philosophy. Middle School performing arts is all about fun, creativity, and trying new things! In the fall and winter, the MS Drama Program offers introductory workshops for performance and backstage skills, culminating in a student-driven 12-Hour Drama Festival. The spring season features a musical theater production where all students can play as big or small a role as they dream, from solos in the spotlight to designing costumes, sets, and lighting.