DEPARTMENT OF VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS: OUR AIMS AND FOCUS
The Department of Visual and Performing Arts is committed to providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop creative and artistic expression.
OUR PROGRAMS
Our curricular and co-curricular programs provide a comprehensive arts education full of rich learning experiences for students at all levels. The ACS Athens Arts program is unique in that Middle School students explore all areas of art expression while Academy students have the option of integrating any of the arts classes into their program of studies. Both full IB Diploma candidates and American Diploma students have the option of taking any of the elective courses.
Elementary School
The Visual Arts program inspires students to explore their creativity and encourages self-expression. A variety of media are used to create original 2D and 3D work. The units focus on the Elements and Principles of Design while incorporating art history, aesthetics and art criticism into the lessons. The Art Department collaborates with classroom teachers to build cross-curricular art lessons. This is an exciting way for learning to go beyond the classroom setting, creating a meaningful learning experience.
In Music, students develop a solid foundation of musical skills through the use of instruments, movement and singing. Students come together twice a year to celebrate their musical achievements in the winter and spring concerts.
Throughout their Elementary experience students bring to life on stage what they have learned in the classroom. Grade level performances are conducted in our state of the art theater during special holidays and celebrations.
Middle School
In the Middle School students participate in an Exploratory Program, where they take Music in Grade 6, Art and Design in Grade 7 and Drama in Grade 8.
In Art and Design students explore visual thinking, design and drawing. In Grade 6 Music, students develop musicianship skills by engaging in authentic music-making opportunities. In staged performances, Middle School Drama students examine the human experience, beliefs and values of culture through role play, characterization exercises and improvisations.
Academy
The Academy provides a range of opportunities for students who are simply curious about exploring and understanding creative process and history, and for those who want to develop their skills and experience at the highest level. Grades 9-12 may enroll in Design, Drawing and Painting, Graphic Arts, Drama and Senior Band. IB Visual Arts and IB Theater Arts are offered both for full IB Diploma and certificate students.
OUR GRADUATES
Visual and Performing Arts students often go on to study in universities in Europe and the United States. Many become practicing professionals.