Visual & Performing Arts

Classical Models and Creative Expression

Providing scholars with a profound understanding and appreciation of the arts is an indispensable aspect of any formal classical education.  The arts program at The Washington Latin School seeks to develop in students a deep knowledge and awareness of the aesthetic quality within the classical heritage, and in turn to engender in them the confidence and ability actively to contribute to that ever-broadening tradition through their own creativity.   Arts at Latin is rooted in the belief that Beauty exists and that an essential element of the human experience is the quest both to understand how those before us have sought after it and how our students continue that process of discovery. 

Toward the accomplishment of these goals, Latin promotes an arts education curriculum that fosters in young scholars the opportunity for self-discovery and introspection that allows for meaningful creative expression.  As students develop the self-confidence that arises from positive artistic experiences in studio arts, music and drama, they discover the rich potential in collaborative arts – including orchestras, dramatic cast performances and choral groups – that will strengthen the Latin community.  Moreover, believing that art holds a mirror to society, the School also recognizes the importance of arts education in the development of ethical and responsible citizens who are able to reflect and comment on the world around them through artistic endeavors, both on an individual level and in concert with other young artists.

The School is committed not only to the development of a first-class arts education program within its four walls, but also to inviting artists-in-residence to the schoolhouse to expose scholars to the refinement and dignity of the creative process, and to introducing students to the wealth of cultural institutions in the nation’s capital.

Through music, dance, theater and the studio arts, each Latin student will be enabled to experience and express ideas that take them beyond their cognitive categories.  Through these avenues of passionate portrayal, they will learn not only to think, but to see, hear, sense and to feel deeply the drama and beauty of the world around them.  In turn, they will be equipped with the practical skills to realize these aesthetic possibilities in tangible ways.

From their earliest exposure to color, texture, sound and creative movement, Latin students will be asked to create.  As they progress from simple crafts to fine arts, the easel, the stage, the keyboard and the kiln will become natural means of expressing the inexpressible.  In poetry, drama, dance and the various studio arts, they will discover whole new languages for life’s deepest and most sacred conversations.

Collaborative Opportunities

The School's commitment to teach through the arts will become a reality as faculty members, working together, create interdisciplinary projects that enable students to approach specific and academic units through the lens of imagination and aesthetic possibility.  Those classroom experiences will be enhanced by relationships the School will forge with several of the region’s cultural institutions.  Through the School’s Visiting Artists Program, many fine artists and musicians, including some Latin parents, will be invited to share their special gifts and talents with Latin students.

Applied Arts & Technology

Modern technology, particularly computer technology, has transformed the way students look at art, and Latin will embrace the interplay of art and technology. Students’ appreciation of the aesthetic is complemented by conscious attention to the opportunities of emerging technologies to facilitate creativity.  Through instruction and tutorial in applied art – including industrial arts, graphic design, basic architecture and photography – teachers discover and nourish individual artistic gifts and give the students the tools they need to express those talents.  The School actively seeks to pair students with local performers and craftspeople who will serve as artisan-mentors.  Special emphasis is placed on artistic endeavors with a significant technological component, including computer aided design (CAD).

Creative Aptitude Profile

Each student and parent is periodically  given a structured interview during which they  answer a series of questions about the student’s artistic talents and interests.  The Creative Aptitude Profile that results from this process becomes a part of the student’s overall Student Support Plan.  Faculty and parents  then use the information from the profile in order to direct the student towards the artistic endeavor(s) best suited for him or her.

Extracurricular Arts Offerings

2009-2010 (Planned)

The Washington Latin School Choir

A Cappella Choir

Drama Club

Studio Art Club

(individual arrangements and instrumental tutorials by request)