“To create one’s own world takes courage.” ~Georgia O’Keeffe
Art Courses: LSWA 140
LSWA art courses are designed for students of all skill levels and are particularly suited for non-art majors. Courses vary each year and have included drawing, painting, public art, filmmaking, photography, and paper engineering. These courses help students develop technical skills, visual literacy, and a greater understanding of creative processes. Students also frequently comment on the value of making art as part of a community and the sense of accomplishment they experience.
Art in Public Spaces
The LSWA course Art in Public Spaces (LHSP 140) creates opportunities for students to make art that engages the community beyond LSWA. One such project is the breathtaking mural commissioned by Palmer Commons, on the University of Michigan campus (featured in the video).
FestiFools
LSWA Art Director, Mark Tucker, and students in his “Art in Public Spaces” courses, originated a beloved public art event that has become an annual Ann Arbor tradition—FestiFools. For 15 years, hundreds of students in this course designed and created the giant outdoor artworks for FestiFools and its sister event FoolMoon. Although Mark and his students are now busy designing new public art events, FestiFools and FoolMoon still attract thousands of participants and spectators each year in the name of “Foolishness” -- providing unique ways of bringing people together to celebrate community and creativity.
Art Clubs and Studio
LSWA students also choose between many art themed clubs to participate in every week. Current club offerings include Practically Arts, JustArt, and Photography. Previous club offerings included Art & Tech, Bullet Journaling, Comic Book Creators, and New Mediums. LSWA students also have access to the art studio 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.