Over the years, school districts have had to make the hard choice of cutting art programs such as drama, music, and visual arts due to budget constraints and the focus on state and national academic priorities that focus on math and English achievement. Schools with access to private resources, such as independent and private institutions, have been able to withstand these budget cuts by raising private funds, and these cuts have mainly happened to low-performing and low-income schools. However, the arts offer many benefits to students, including enhancing student achievement, critical thinking, self-expression, confidence, and self-esteem.
This project aims to create an environment where students can express themselves while learning about the professional world of the arts, preparing them to transition smoothly into the professional industry. Using precedent studies of art academies around the United States of America helps form the foundation of the fine arts academy. Also using literature reviews to understand the construction and things needed for schools, and art academies that will make it practical. This project was designed to accommodate 500–800 middle and high school students, offering six major areas: writing, dance, music, theater, visual arts, and business. The major design strategies are acoustic considerations, creativity-enhancing features, space planning considering wayfinding, and attention to safety, security, mental health, and ergonomic functions. The layout includes specialized spaces and classrooms for each major, alongside core classrooms for general studies. Private and group study rooms, practice spaces, collaboration rooms, and staff and student break areas are also incorporated. The main theater is designed to replicate a professional stage, providing students with real-world experiences and lessons. In conclusion, implementing these design solutions in an arts academy will create a learning environment that helps students learn and pursue the arts, ultimately preparing them for success in their careers.
Providing a Creative Environment for Students Pursuing the Arts
Category
Student Abstract Submission