Art is often known as a way for humans to express themselves through emotion and creativity. Mrs. Herrick-Williams wants her students to feel like this space is a “home base” for her kids to just come in and get to work on their art projects. Mrs. Herrick-Williams teaches basic art, intro to 2d, and intro to 3d. Her more advanced classes are advanced art design, advanced 2d, and advanced 3d. Even more advanced classes, AP art and studio art, are typically for juniors and seniors who have taken multiple art classes here at Atlantic High School.
“I feel happy knowing that everyone in the class is excited to learn more about art,” freshman Grace Goodrich expressed how she feels when she enters the classroom. Herrick-Williams also wants her students to feel a calming sense while they work in the classroom. Senior Landyn Wiersma mentioned that art class sounds quieter, in fact, “a stark contrast from my other/later classes.”
Herrick-Williams’ students have been working on different varieties of projects, such as clay, printmaking, and ceramics. These have been some class favorites over her teaching career. This year, she has tried papier-mache as more “individual projects.” A project consists of toilet paper and glue, like water. Along with trying new things, some students like to paint, use clay, draw, or whatever they truly desire. The purpose of art is supposed to be for everyone.
“The process itself was fun, not the final result,” Herrick-Williams stated. You don’t have to be good at art, but you should at least have fun with it. Getting to survey new things is always a discovery. Sophomore AK Hartman described how he likes to draw “random things” so he can explore new opportunities. Mrs. Herrick-Williams also stated that “you have to suck at something to be good.” Even though the bumps in the road will be rough, you just have to find a different way to push your limits and to maximize your own personal art gallery.
