Visual Arts

Lower School Visual Arts Philosophy

The purpose of the program is to help each boy to develop his own creative style while at the same time introducing basic art techniques and teaching the proper use of art equipment and materials. Teachers draw on subject matter close to the student’s world: his own experiences, seasons and holidays, family, and the environment. Much of the work is interdisciplinary and connected with classroom curriculum. Drawing, painting, clay work and sculpture, printing, crafts, and general design work are approached in each successive grade at a slightly more advanced level. Field trips to various museums extend the classroom experience. Black Rock Forest is used to provide students with art experiences in the beauty of the forest.

Middle School Visual Arts Philosophy

Browning has long sought to provide its students with a balanced and culturally enriched educational experience, and the arts have played a major role in that endeavor. Academic courses which assure a certain level of competence in the history and critical analysis of art and music are a required part of the curriculum. However, it is equally important to foster a deeper appreciation for the arts. To this end, students set their hands to drawing, painting, sculpture, and related media, and display their works in school exhibits and publications. Browning choirs sing at various assemblies and concerts, and individual student musicians are encouraged to perform. Larger groups receive instruction on Orff instruments. Theatrical performances by all age groups are mounted for assemblies and evening productions, and often the energies and talents of school artists, musicians, and thespians are pulled together into one, unifying effort.

Upper School Visual Arts Philosophy

Browning has long sought to provide its students a balanced and culturally enriched educational experience, and the arts have played a major role in that endeavor. Academic courses which assure a certain level of competence in the history and critical analysis of art and music are a required part of the curriculum. However, it is equally important to foster a deeper appreciation for the arts which may not be found in the confines of the traditional classroom. To this end, students working in the art studios set their hands to drawing, painting, sculpture, and related media, and display their work in school exhibits and publications. Browning choirs and instrumental groups perform at various assemblies and concerts, and individual student musicians are encouraged to perform. Theatrical performances by all age groups are mounted for assemblies and evening productions, and often the energies and talents of school artists, musicians, and thespians are pulled together into one, unifying effort. In addition, professionals are invited to Browning to share their experiences in the arts. These guest lecturers are often talented alumni who return to share their expertise and nurture a new generation of Browning students.