The Lower School art curriculum covers many of the skills necessary for meaningful self-expression. These skills include use of shapes, both geometric and free form, understanding the color wheel, and qualities of 2D and 3D design, as well as composition, using balance and spatial relationships. The Lower School curriculum also takes on an historical perspective that includes art units inspired by famous artists and varied cultures. Some examples of these artistic influences include Warhol, Chagall, Kahlo, Matisse, and Monet, as well as cultural inspirations from the Ancient Egyptians, Greco-Roman Bas Reliefs and mosaics, Native American artifacts, Peruvian weavings, and African tribal masks. Art movements are also incorporated into the curriculum units, such as: Pop Art self-portraits, Surrealist paintings, Impressionist landscapes, and Cubist compositions. Students in Lower School are encouraged to utilize artistic expression within a variety of media and techniques to extend their learning inside and outside the classroom. Media that are explored include everything from painting, drawing and collage to beading, building and sculpture. Students at RPCS can stretch their imaginations and intellects thanks to their involvement in the Visual Arts.
During the second grade year, girls are introduced to a variety of artists’ mediums and forms of expression and look in-depth at color, collage and figure in motion/gesture drawing. Artist studies include Degas, Jacob Lawrence, Mondrian, Egyptian and Bangladesh art. The girls in second grade take an annual trip to the Walters Art Gallery.