The BVSW art program adds new students every year and has a big variety of classes that students can choose from.  The students of the art program do much more than just take a normal art class every day, with the help of the teachers the students can express themselves and learn to challenge themselves in different ways. Southwest encourages students to join the art program and get involved.

Schools across the nation are beginning to add more art classes because studies show when students use art to enhance their creativity it improves their overall academic achievement according to Americans For The Arts. For more imformation about art programs in America go to http://www.americansforthearts.org/by-topic/funding-resources.

“ When I first joined the BVSW art program I knew I had made  the right decision in order to take my art career more serious,”  sophomore and NAHS member Elizabeth Putnam said. “ I don’t know what I would do if I wasn’t able to have art in my everyday life. The teachers are a big part as to why my art classes are my favorite classes, they encourage students to have their own artistic visions and push students to try new things. I think that everyone should give art class a try because it truly is a great opportunity for everyone. ”

Students can join the art program by enrolling in a class the next semester or asking a counselor to switch into one.  The art program has more than just classes, you can also get involved by joining National Art Honors Society also known as NAHS. The NAHS has created many things students may see around BVSW. NAHS made the mascot that Southwest burned at the Homecoming game bonfire and the homecoming decorations.  Joining NAHS is another way to get involved in the art program other than taking classes. Students can join the NAHS by going to a meeting and students can become members if they have 15 hours of community service.

“I have loved drawing since I was seven years old, and the art program has helped me take my drawing career to the next level,”  sophomore and NAHS member Grant Gruenhaupt said. “The teachers have also helped me tremendously and are always finding ways to make class more fun for the students.”

Gruenhaupt believes that anyone is qualified to join the art program because he claims students are all creative in different ways. When Gruenhaupt started his art career he was not as talented as he is today but he strived for perfection. As a child Gruenahupt used to bring his sketchbook and pencils everywhere practicing and working on his drawing skills.

“Art class is my escape for the day and that I looks forward to classes every day,” sophomore Skylar Peters said. “The environment of an art class makes him feel relaxed and open to personal expression and I think that every Southwest student should enroll and try out a class.”