Whether your interests lie in photography or art history, Syosset High School has the class for you. Beginning on January 27, the art department set up a mini-fair in the cafeteria (later moved to AR hall) that featured the variety of art classes Syosset provides. Panels featured works from Syosset’s 29 visual art, six theatre, and five photography classes. QR codes linked to the new Syo Arts webpage were set up at each display.
As students were planning their schedules for next year, the examples of student work gave an idea of what each class entailed. Art teacher Mr. Damon Tommolino currently teaches AP Drawing, AP Art History, Foundations in Art 1, and Painting classes. Mr. Tommolino said, “I would consider it [the art fair] to be somewhat of a ‘reachout’ program. Everyone kind of gets caught in their own little cocoon, so this is to demonstrate the breadth of classes we provide. Great program, all the different media you can imagine. Everything from soup to nuts—animation, fine art, portfolio department, and preparing students for the next step artistically.”
Syosset High School also offers nine visual art clubs, welcoming students of all artistic interests and passions. Clubs include the National Art Honor Society, Animation Club, and more. Mr. Tommolino said, “I think our program provides something for all people. Not even just advanced students. So, doing something outside of their comfort zone, something less academic driven…look at it as a way to decompress.”
Sophomore Alicia Chen has taken Studio in Art, Drawing, and Advanced Drawing. Alicia said, “I enjoy drawing and the community it gives. The teachers are also nice and helpful. Working with friends also makes the process of art more enjoyable. I would recommend Studio in Art if you’re interested in taking art or want to see if you are interested and want to continue.”
The hard work and commitment Syosset art students have put into the community has paid off in their creativity. With each year bringing in more and more innovative students, the art department looks further ahead. “You’re using your hands, trying to solve problems, you’re trying to express yourself. At the end of the day we say we try to promote students to create art that provokes thought or evokes emotion,” said Mr. Tommolino.
