Create
Students experiment with materials, techniques, and ideas as they develop their own artistic voices.
Visual Arts is more than a class
Through drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, photography, fibers, printmaking, and digital media, students build technical skills while learning to observe, communicate, and think imaginatively. Guided by expert educators, they engage with contemporary art, art history, and design principles to understand both the creative process and the world around them.
Whether experimenting with new materials, refining a portfolio, or creating work for exhibition, students are encouraged to explore, create, and grow as artists.
A PK3–12 Journey in Visual Arts
At every stage, students engage in meaningful artistic experiences that encourage creativity, curiosity, and self-expression. As they progress through the program, they develop technical skills, artistic confidence, and an increasingly sophisticated understanding of visual communication.
express
Through contemporary art, art history, and cultural connections, students discover how artists communicate ideas across time and place.
Express
Students learn to communicate visually, transforming observations, experiences, and imagination into meaningful works of art.
Early childhood
Lower School
Middle School
upper School
Creativity on Display
Visual Arts students regularly share their work through exhibitions, showcases, collaborative projects, and public displays that celebrate creativity, artistic growth, and personal expression.
Through these experiences, students gain confidence presenting their work, engaging in artistic dialogue, and contributing to a vibrant culture of creativity within the school community.
Information Needed
- Collaborative arts events
- Annual Art Show
- Student exhibitions
- Community exhibitions
- Museum partnerships
- Public installations
Celebrating Student Achievement
MCDS visual artists are recognized for their creativity, technical skill, and artistic vision through prestigious regional and national competitions.
Scholastic Art Awards
The Scholastic Art Awards are among the nation’s most respected programs recognizing creative achievement by young artists.
Recent MCDS student accomplishments include:
- Two students earned the competition’s highest distinction, the Gold Key Award
- Award-winning works were selected for exhibition at the Rubell Museum
- Gold Key recipients advanced to the national level of competition
New York Times Photography Competition
MCDS student photographers have also earned recognition through national contests that celebrate creativity and visual storytelling.
Recent honors include:
- Honorable Mention recognition in the New York Times Photo Contest
Expanding Creative Opportunities
Learning in visual arts extends beyond the classroom through experiences that connect students with artists, creative professionals, and the broader arts community.
Students may participate in workshops, collaborative projects, community initiatives, and enrichment opportunities that deepen their artistic understanding and broaden their perspectives.
Information Needed
- National Art Honor Society
- Art Club
- Visiting artists
- Artist residencies
- Workshops and master classes
- Summer programs
- Community art projects
- Internships
Preparing Students for Creative Futures
Students interested in pursuing visual arts beyond MCDS receive guidance and support in portfolio development, artistic exploration, and college preparation.
Through advanced coursework and portfolio experiences, students build the skills necessary to pursue creative studies and artistic opportunities at the collegiate level and beyond.
Information Needed
- Art schools attended
- Creative majors pursued
- Portfolio acceptances
- Alumni creative careers
A Signature Pathway for Dedicated Artists
The Visual Arts Diploma Endorsement is an advanced Upper School pathway for students who demonstrate a strong commitment to artistic exploration and wish to pursue a deeper, more personalized creative journey.
Through sustained studio practice, portfolio development, service learning, faculty mentorship, jury review, and a culminating showcase, students have the opportunity to refine their artistic voice, develop technical and conceptual skills, and share their work with the broader community.
The endorsement encourages students to move beyond creating individual projects and toward a meaningful body of work that reflects their growth, interests, and creative vision. Through observation, experimentation, reflection, and artistic inquiry, students develop the discipline, confidence, and independence required to pursue advanced artistic study and lifelong engagement in the visual arts.
