John Adams Middle School Visual Art
The John Adams Middle School Visual Arts Program is a vibrant, student-centered environment that promotes creativity, critical thinking, and community engagement. Aligned with California Standards for Visual Arts and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the curriculum encourages self-expression while integrating project-based learning, STEM connections, and cross-curricular collaboration with subjects like history, science, and language arts. Led by Jennifer Joyce, the program provides hands-on experiences that inspire innovation. Each year, around 190 students engage in projects such as:
Exhibitions: Annual District Visual Art Show, Day of the Dead Visual Art Show, John Adams Visual Art Show, PTSA Reflections Art Contest Showcase
Community Arts Engagement: Collaborations with the City of Santa Monica, local galleries, museums, non-profits, colleges, and universities
Advanced Visual Art Field Trips: The Getty, LACMA, The Broad, local gallery visits for collaborations and workshops
Through these initiatives, students develop the skills and confidence to become lifelong creators and problem-solvers. The program also benefits from a close working relationship with the Santa Monica Education Foundation, which provides annual contributions that enhance students' experiences and artistic growth.
