The visual arts curriculum at Germantown Academy is designed as a continuum from pre-kindergarten through the twelfth grade building creativity, self-expression, intuitive thought and visual literacy.  Through art experiences in and out of the classroom we prepare students to understand and interpret the visual world and the scope of fine and applied arts through a diversity of cultures.  The elements and principles of art are taught through a coordinated curriculum appropriate to the child’s developmental level. Students are provided with a wide range of materials in the disciplines of drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture, small metals foundry, and ceramics making two and three-dimensional art that expresses their perceptions and experiences   In addition to developing technical skills through projects that require creative problem solving, we encourage risk-taking and experimentation empowering students and fostering critical thinking across a range of disciplines.  Constructive criticism of their work and process as well as a dialogue between students promotes the development of the language of visual arts, enhances their self -confidence, and engenders respect for others.   The visual arts curriculum at Germantown Academy is a more far-reaching program than the specific course work and technical skills imply. We are a process oriented faculty who instill in students a love for self-reflection, confidence in their voices, determination in the face of problem solving, challenging conventions, delight in asking questions, and a trust in the uniqueness and relevance of their experience.   We believe that this approach to learning is particularly suited for study of the arts. Furthermore, it prepares students to be broad-minded and critically thinking adults who understand the role that art plays in defining, sustaining, and supporting a culture required for the wholeness of our society.