In the York High School Art Department, we believe that ALL students are artists and we are fully dedicated to developing the artistic talents of all students through a comprehensive visual art program.
Visual art classes provide students access to a variety of art-making media. Courses are offered in drawing and painting, digital and traditional photography, ceramics and sculpture, jewelry and metalsmithing, animation, digital design, and art history. Within our state-of-the-art facilities, students can explore their creativity and refine their skill using top-notch equipment and supplies as well as robust digital resources such as iPads, iMacs, and 3D printers.
Art classes are sequenced from beginning to advanced levels including college bound Advanced Placement programs. Incoming students can expect a nurturing, yet challenging curriculum that emphasizes technical skills, creativity, and the theoretical importance of the arts in society.
Illinois High School Art Exhibition
The Illinois High School Art Exhibition (IHSAE) is sponsored by Art ConnectED. "Art ConnectED believes the visual arts are a powerful force in culture and education, enriching the lives and endeavors of humankind. Our mission is to advance art education for young people by providing art exhibition and education opportunities that celebrate students' artistic achievement, promote mastery and ingenuity in learning, and facilitate post-secondary opportunities." Learn more at their website https://www.artconnected.org/
Each year, York Art students have the opportunity to submit their artwork for the Northern Regional Exhibition and Senior Scholarship Exhibition where they compete with students from across Illinois for the opportunity to have their artwork displayed in a professional art gallery in Chicago and are eligible for awards and scholarship offers. The presentation below highlights York student artwork that was selected for one or both exhibitions and recognizes senior art students who received scholarship offers from various colleges and universities. In 2024, York Art students received a total of $1,952,000 in scholarship offers!