Art is everywhere, even in us as human beings. Art can either be a big part of someone’s life, or someone may hate it entirely. People all have their own opinions about art especially at South High School.  

South is known to have one of the best art pathways and the largest ceramics program in the state, but what do students and teachers think about the art program and classes offered? 

Junior Juan Bahena, also known as Eli, said that to him, art is a way to fully express himself through several different media. “Art really opens doors of creativity like no other,” he said. 

So, what does Bahena think about South’s art pathway? Bahena said the art pathway can really help students find what they are good at.  

Bahena said that even though not everyone has an eye for art, everyone still has his or her own way of displaying their creativity. “Art has zero limitations,” he said. “If you can think it, you can draw it.” 

 And while he can’t really think of other directions the pathway could expand, he did add that “spray paint would be fun.”  

 To junior Irving Galindo, there are many different types of art with his favorite being abstract because in just one art piece, a person can interpret and make meaning in their own way.  

When asked if South offers a good selection of art classes, Galindo said it does. “Art isn’t only painting and drawing, and for that reason, everything is considered art,” he said. 

As for whether or not South should add other art-related courses, Galindo suggested blade smithing would be great though for safety reasons would most likely not be allowed in schools. Blade smithing is the making of swords, blades or knives by using an anvil, forge and other smithing tools. “Blade smithing requires a lot of technique, patience and creativity plus learning how to be safe,” he said. 

To art instructor Joanna Gurney, “Art is a creative and intentional form of expression, experience or making meaning,” and she believes most students who take art classes enjoy them.  

Sometimes students can take time to warm up to the subject if they were automatically put into an art class for an elective, Gurney said.  

She added that she would love to see the art program at South grow. There are always more students who sign up for an art class than there is room, and expanding would give more students opportunities to have that experience.   

Art is everywhere and can be anything. If you’re interested in trying your hand at art, then take a class. You might just end up on the fifth floor.