ART ROOM RENOVATIONS

Big changes have been occurring in ASOP's art room over the past year! In the fall of 2023, students in Tony's STEAM class built a much-needed workbench with storage shelves for the room. The tall bench allows students to stand while they create.

Art teacher Joy coordinated many generous equipment donations during the 2023-2024 school year, including rolling storage racks for supplies, a commercial baking rack for drying 3-D items, a kiln and a pottery wheel.

In the spring of 2024, LED lights were installed to replace the fluorescent lights. "The difference is remarkable," related Joy. "The new lighting closely resembles daylight and has brought a whole new energy to the space. And the colors are more vibrant!"

A second renovation was completed in the fall of 2024. The former kitchen area and art supply closet (behind the kitchen) became one room when the wall between them was opened up and the kitchen removed. This new space, with the addition of a commercial, stainless steel sink, is destined to be a "wet" room where students can work with clay. Electrical and plumbing were updated to include hot water. The room will house the pottery wheel and drying shelves, while the kiln will be located off site.

In the meantime, walls have been painted, Joy is busy organizing all of her supplies, and items from the former kitchen have been moved to the building's other pod.

There are still many items left on the wish list for the art room, including pottery supplies (e.g., clay and glazes), a color printer and ink, a ceiling fan, and continued improvements to workspace, seating, lighting and storage.