Design Your Dream Arts Class: Exploring Emotions through Abstract Art

          Understanding and expressing emotions are significant aspects of collaboration and personal growth. My dream arts class at Lawrenceville would focus on understanding and processing emotions through art. By exploring these emotions, individuals would not only grow closer to their classmates but also develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
         
         This class would be structured as a term-long course divided into three main phases. The first phase would include lectures, discussions on the psychological processes of emotions, and explorations of theories and models like the Expressive or Gestalt Theories, which emphasize how individuals perceive visual elements. The course would also include visits to various renowned art galleries for students to analyze how emotions are portrayed in different artworks. In the evenings, students would attend lectures, presented by guest psychologists or art therapists, to gain insights into the emotional aspects of art. The second phase of the course would include instructing students on art techniques through hands-on classes, covering abstract techniques such as modeling.  The assignments could also include experimentation with different materials like found and natural objects. Finally, the third phase includes emotion-focused projects, focusing on translating specific emotions into abstract and original art. These projects would allow students to explore, process, and translate their complex emotions into physical manifestations using everyday objects and the art around them. Examples of these projects include emotional sculptures, where students can sculpt abstract landscapes that reflect their inner feelings. Students may draw inspiration from their peers, nature, memories, dreams, or music. These assignments would not only be therapeutic for many students but also help them reflect on and document their emotional journey throughout the creative process. 

         There are countless ways to face emotions, and each individual has their own way of handling their feelings. Being able to translate these feelings into beautiful art is an amazing experience for viewers and artists alike. All in all, the class “Exploring and Processing Emotions through Abstract Art” would offer a unique opportunity to merge artistry with identity. By engaging in reflective and creative practices, participants would not only produce beautiful artwork but also deepen their empathy and awareness of the emotions of others and themselves. As such, this class seeks to foster a supportive, tight-knit environment, which would allow students to further their abstract art skills while focusing on their own mental health.