GJHS Art: A Culture of Excellence in the Grand Valley, GJHS Art is the premier art school in the Grand Valley, offering an unparalleled range of classes designed to inspire and cultivate the next generation of artists. Our diverse curriculum includes foundational courses like Art 1, specialized tracks such as Ceramics 1 and 2, Photography 1 and 2, Graphic Design 1, Printmaking, 3-D Design, Mixed Media, and advanced courses like Drawing and Painting 1 and 2. This comprehensive program ensures that every student, regardless of their interest or skill level, can find their artistic voice and hone their craft.
With the move to our new GJHS building, our art department has received significant upgrades in equipment and facilities, further cementing our commitment to excellence. The addition of two new kilns and two new ceramics wheels (bringing our total to 12) enhances our ceramics program. The inclusion of a pug mill and a new paper storage unit ensures that our students have access to the best resources available. We are also excited about the potential establishment of an all-Mac computer graphics lab, which will provide our students with the cutting-edge tools needed for digital art and design.
Our art program is led by two veteran high school art teachers, Sean Henry and Joe Graham, whose dedication and expertise have been instrumental in shaping our curriculum and inspiring our students. This year, we are thrilled to welcome a third member to our team, Mr. Tholl. Bringing with him years of experience as both an art teacher and a professional artist, Mr. Tholl infuses our program with new energy and fresh perspectives.
One of the most exciting features of our new facility is the outdoor courtyard. This serene and inspiring space allows students to work on their drawings, paintings, ceramics, and other art projects in a natural setting. Surrounded by plants and trees, the courtyard provides a tranquil environment that fosters creativity and well-being for both students and staff. We keep art at GJHS inclusive and fun! Art is for everybody whether you are the best student in the room or someone who is just trying to get better. A general education student, or a student with a disability… We want everybody!
Over the past 30 years we have been building Art library which is an ongoing project that we hope to continue to add to in the coming years. At GJHS Art, we are dedicated to cultivating a culture of excellence. We continuously push ourselves to be the best educators and artists we can be, always striving to provide the highest quality of education to our students. We advocate tirelessly for our students to have access to all the supplies and materials they could ever want, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed and express their creativity fully. Our program is more than just a series of classes; it is a thriving community of artists and educators committed to excellence, innovation, and the belief that every student has the potential to create extraordinary art. Join us at GJHS Art, where the future of visual arts in the Grand Valley is being shaped every day.