Visual Arts

Visual Arts are a vibrant part of Rumsey Hall’s whole-child philosophy, fostering imagination, problem-solving, and self-expression from Pre-K through Grade 9. Whether experimenting with new materials in the Lower School or diving into focused studio work in the Upper School, Rumsey students discover that art is both a process and a powerful way to understand the world around them.

Our Faculty

Rumsey’s visual arts program is led by passionate, professional artists and educators who bring deep knowledge and creative energy into every classroom and studio.

Cassie Rydingsword

Fine Arts Department Chair / Upper School Art

Sarah Sullivan

Lower School Art

Upper School Visual Arts (Grade 6–9)

Curriculum & Studio Work

Rumsey’s Upper School art curriculum progresses from foundational skills to focused studio practice. Each year builds on the last, encouraging confidence, independence, and artistic risk-taking.

Grade 6 – Art IV
Students begin with a survey of the elements of art and principles of design through projects in monoprinting, collage, and textile arts. A dedicated ceramics unit introduces hand-building techniques like pinch, slab, and coil.
Grade 7 – Art V
Through nine core themes ranging from landscape and portraiture to conceptual art, students explore new techniques and connect their work to major artists and movements. The course helps students discover what personally inspires their own artistic voice.
Grade 8 – Art VI
Emphasis is placed on drawing from observation. Students use charcoal, graphite, and colored pencil to build skills in contour, value, and texture—honing both technical precision and personal expression.

Explore Visual Arts Curriculum

Grade 9 – Studio-Based Electives

Rumsey’s VIIth Form artists select from studio electives designed to support individual growth, passion, and portfolio development:

Studio Art (TAB Model): A choice-based studio environment that encourages independent projects rooted in student interests and artistic behaviors.
Ceramics: Functional and sculptural work using hand-building and pottery wheel techniques. Students study glaze chemistry, surface design, and firing processes.
Metalworking: Students learn professional jewelry-making and sculpture techniques including soldering, riveting, and texturing using copper and brass.

Explore Signature Programs Value of a 9th Grade Year

Lower School Visual Arts (Pre-K – Grade 5)

Curriculum Highlights

Art in the Lower School begins with open-ended exploration. Students build skills and confidence across a broad range of media—drawing, painting, sculpture, textile arts, graphic design, and animation—while learning to think creatively and work thoughtfully.

Lower School Curriculum

Each year deepens students' abilities as:

Inventive Idea-Makers: Bringing imagination to life through brainstorming and experimentation.
Persistent Practitioners: Refining technique through consistent practice.
Mindful Makers: Using materials safely, ethically, and intentionally.
Global Explorers: Connecting with cultural and historical traditions through art.
Collaborators & Communicators: Learning to give and receive feedback, and share work with others.

Through sketchbook reflection, class critiques, and real-time feedback, students develop the habits of confident, independent artists.

Signature Events

Winter Celebration of Song & Art
A festive evening of music and visual art, where Lower School students showcase curated work in an outdoor gallery under twinkling lights.
Lower School Musical – Art Integration
Visual arts students support the annual production by designing and creating sets, props, and costume elements.

Afternoon Enrichment Program

Creative Spaces That Inspire

Rumsey’s Visual Arts program takes full advantage of our inspiring natural setting and well-equipped studios. Facilities include:

Dedicated Upper and Lower School art studios
A ceramics studio with kilns for hand-built and wheel-thrown clay work
A metalworking and jewelry-making space
Digital art tools and creative software
Outdoor spaces for painting, drawing, and interdisciplinary projects