VISUAL ARTS

The award-winning fine arts, ceramics and photography courses at Starkville High School are the anchor point of the district's Visual Arts program and produce yearly state, national and international honors. Centered primarily in the "White House" on campus, students enjoy a vibrant studio space under the direction of former Mississippi Teacher of the Year, Andrew Lark. With instruction in drawing, charcoal, painting, and an emphasis on black and white and color photography, students find their creative expression and also learn the basics of presenting their work and preparing artist's statements.

Exploring media in visual arts is an integral part of a Yellow Jacket's week of learning beginning in kindergarten, and formal classes begin in 6th grade, when students may choose Art for a 9-week rotation of exploratory classes. Art becomes a year-long elective class in 7th grade. Each year, students compete in the State and National Beta Competition, the Scholastic Arts Awards program, and Mississippi's Congressional Art Competition.