Visual & Performing Arts
Be it on stage or behind the easel, the arts dare our imaginations to soar. Asheville School’s fine arts program uncovers a student’s inner artist and sharpens their understanding of theory and technique. From poetry to pottery to piano, instruction is never confined to the classroom or campus. Students immerse themselves in the Asheville community, a beloved enclave for creatives that will inspire a lifetime of artistic exploration.
Built on Art
Asheville has grown into one of the Southeast’s most vibrant destinations. Our Arts in the Community program embeds students in museums, concert halls, and studios, where they gain unprecedented exposure to local artists and begin to understand what’s possible with a passion for creativity.
We currently partner with The Asheville Art Museum, the Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center, and other local arts organizations to provide students a wide array of experiences both on and off campus.
Asheville School regularly hosts professional artists and guest instructors who infuse the arts curriculum with their expertise and experience.
At Asheville School, we believe in the power of the arts to build connections, serve our community, and celebrate the diverse perspectives that enrich our lives. Through dynamic partnerships with local organizations, our students engage in meaningful projects that not only hone their artistic skills but also contribute positively to the broader community. Whether it’s through collaborative public art installations, performances, or service-based projects, our commitment to using the arts as a vehicle for community service is unwavering.
Our arts programs are further enriched by the involvement of professional guest artists, who bring their expertise directly into our classrooms and studios. These artists lead workshops, participate in exhibitions, and perform on our campus, providing our students with unique opportunities to learn from and interact with professionals at the top of their fields. These experiences deepen students’ artistic practice and open their eyes to the vast possibilities within the arts.
Asheville School’s Dance Program is dedicated to creative expression and the development of a strong body, mind, and spirit through the joy of movement.
Dancers build their curiosity, self-confidence, and respect for diverse perspectives through collaboration and dedication. Whether trying dance for the first time or expanding skills, students build their technique and artistry through exposure to various styles of dance, creative practices, work with guest artists, and performance opportunities.
All students are invited to:
- Join elective dance courses
- Audition for the Winter Musical or the Asheville School Dance Ensemble
- Sign up for the Spring Dance Production
- Participate in guest artist workshops and classes
- Get involved in dance projects through the Arts in Service & Internship class
- Participate in special event programming, for example the Day of Peace Performance
The Dramatic Society is one of the longest running programs at Asheville School. Students have the opportunity to be part of a dramatic production that competes with other high schools across North Carolina, along with a yearly musical performance. Beyond the afternoon activity options for performance, there are also opportunities for smaller class performances and student created work.
In addition to performance, students assume leadership positions to design, build and work backstage. This includes everything from set construction, costumes, props, and painting, as well as programming and running lights and sound. This provides a practical application for STEAM skills, problem solving and collaborative creation in an ever-changing arts environment.
From script to screen, the Asheville School Department of Film is a series of elective courses that focuses on the visual storytelling of film. From screenwriting and storyboards; foley effects and photography; filming and editing; the Film program at Asheville School works to inspire young filmmakers to conceive and create new worlds, tales, and narratives.
The music program welcomes students of all skill levels to discover, expand, and excel through engaging in our music courses, ensembles, afternoon activity program, and community performances.
- Instrumental Ensemble
- Chorus
- Handbell Ensemble
- Winter Musical
Off-Campus Opportunities:
- Asheville Symphony Youth Orchestra
- State-wide honors ensembles
- Fall music retreat
- Community service and performances
The Visual Arts program encourages exploration and creativity.
In the visual arts, students learn to think critically, problem-solve, and flourish. They are encouraged to share their own powerful and innovative perspectives, while being exposed to historical and contemporary art ideas. In the community, students meet local artists and interact with artwork that speaks to a variety of concepts. In the studio, students are always safe and supported whether they are stepping out of their comfort zones to explore media or hone their studio techniques.
