In late September, students could be seen in the arts studios and outside on the patio, painting on huge swaths of canvas and constructing them into sculpture. They were working with visiting artist Maggie Nowinski, whose work currently appears in the gallery.

In addition to field trips, working alongside artists in residence is a valuable way the school enriches student artists’ experiences.

Often, artists’ visits align with exhibitions of their work in the Tremaine Gallery. Ms. Terri Moore, director of the Tremaine Art Gallery and instructor in Art, said, “As we build curriculum and this idea of student driven learning from experience, what I think is really exciting is finding a great artist and teacher who can come and integrate with our students in a deep way.”

This year, the school will host two artists each semester. In September, the Gallery welcomed visual artist Ms. Maggie Nowinski, who worked with Lower Mid studio arts students to create dynamic line paintings on canvas sheets. The collaborative artwork is currently installed in the Lower Rotunda outside the Dance Studio.

Studio arts student Pahal Bhasin ’26 said, “Ms. Nowinski’s residency inspired me to step out of my comfort zone. This project expanded my thinking, and I experienced more creative freedom. I learned the importance of focusing on the art-making process and not just simply on the final product.”

The photo, film, and related media program has also enhanced its curriculum with visiting artists. In October, photographer Lisa Elmaleh will visit campus to share her award-winning photography from the U.S.-Mexico border.

Her expertise in the wet plate collodion process will dovetail with the Lower Mid curriculum, and upper-level photo students will gain first-hand experience with this alternative photography process as well. Artists in residence encourage creativity and teamwork, allowing students to actively learn from professional artists. By welcoming artists for extended stays on campus, the art programs create more enriching curriculum.

Ms. Moore pointed out the long-lasting impact of meeting and working with visiting artists. She said, “Whether a [student] artist is brand new to making art or really experienced, having that kind of sustained experience and exposure changes a person.”

Phoenix Feng '25

Phoenix Feng is a contributing writer for The Record.

October 12, 2023

Artists in Residence Enrich Curriculum

Phoenix Feng '25

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