At New Gate School art is carefully integrated with the core curriculum taught in the classroom. Students are encouraged to use their artistic skills and individual expression to communicate what they have learned. We look at art from other cultures and countries in an effort to understand not just the art form but the cultures that create it. We make an effort to assure that students’ work is seen with several integrated art displays, classroom displays and at Arts Night for parents. We participate in Sarasota Arts Day and submit children’s work for publication. We feel it is important for the children to know that when they do work of quality it is appreciated and has value for others.

Lower Elementary
The Elementary Art Program at New Gate School is based in the discipline of traditional fine arts. Our program guides students to discover, learn to appreciate art and build confidence in their skills of artistic communication. They are taught the use of various mediums and methods of drawing, painting, and sculpture at a level appropriate to their age. As they progress through the lower elementary levels, the art projects they create give them a solid foundation of use and understanding of the basic elements and principles of art.

Upper Elementary
At the upper elementary level, with their foundation and understanding of the elements and principles of art, students are given further opportunities to use their abilities and knowledge for creating works in their own personal styles. The study of art history at this level is more in-depth and the scope becomes broader. We encourage individual creativity and work on techniques of various mediums as students arrive at their own visual solutions to the projects offered. We approach art just as we approach all learning: gathering information, analyzing it, and then expressing it.

Secondary Art Program
The New Gate Secondary Art Program is designed for students to develop a deeper appreciation for understanding the visual arts and creative process. Students are exposed to various artistic approaches and more advanced techniques. They are encouraged to create works of personal expression through interpretation and observation within the context of historical and contemporary art. By practical application, applying their skills to 2 and 3 dimensional art projects, students strengthen their knowledge and stretch their boundaries, gaining a greater ability to make educated judgments of a work’s artistic merit and its connection to their world.