Nobody truly expects to become an artist. However, it can find you when you least expect it.

Art is one of the most underappreciated subjects here at Doherty. However, without art, this school would not have nearly as much of the power and sense of community it currently has. 

For example, look in the hallway. Paintings and sculptures are filling the display cases and inspiring students. Even the logo is a work of graphic design. Art will always be a driving force for Sparta.

Kevin Comiskey, a visual arts and Ceramics teacher, said, “I think it’s important for kids to take a break from core classes. It’s really important that students get to make projects that they get to really keep.”

Mr. Comiskey also has a history with art. He said, “I was going to college to be an elementary school teacher, and I had to take an art class for that degree. The art teacher I had for that class told me that I should be an art teacher, so I changed my major.” 

Staff and students at Sparta also have extensive reasons for choosing to do art. Ian Brodeur, a freshman in Ceramics, said, “[The reason I got into art is because I like] dragons, and my aunt got me into art.”

Passion for art is often inherited, similarly to sports and other activities. Inspiration can come from anything and is commonly generational. If Leonardo da Vinci had never made the Mona Lisa, art would not be nearly as popular as it is now. If Picasso had never begun his abstract work, surrealism, and abstract works would’ve never become mainstream.

This view is also shared with upperclassmen. Lydia Rivera, a senior in Painting 1, stated, “[I got into art] because of my great-grandfather, [and] art has been with me [for] my whole life.” When asked why she thought art was important, she said, “[It’s important because it’s good to] express yourself, and show that’s who you are, no matter what.” have the ideas and thought process needed to create.

Not everyone needs to be an artist, but it’s crucial to experiment and possibly try out an art class. There are Painting, Ceramics, Sculpture, and even more AP options. There are limitless options, with something to suit every type of person. Intro to Visual Arts is also a wonderful class for students who are new to art, and perhaps trying to find a medium that suits them. There’s something for everyone.

Even if somebody doesn’t exactly enjoy art, the most important thing is that they try something. Other forms of art also exist, such as writing or even the performing arts pathway. There are countless ways to express yourself, and if one doesn’t follow that call, their life will be much more tedious and passionless. Self-expression is a must, especially in artistic areas. Creativity is one of the most crucial parts of life. Creativity is innovation, and creativity is passion. Get out there and be weird, alright? It just might give you a chance of success someday.