The Arts at TFS has always been a treasured part of school life and academics. We offer music, drama, and visual arts while utilizing our media center. Starting in 2005, the school began hosting an art show in the fellowship hall.
What began as a traditional gallery opening with student artwork and a small reception has evolved over the last 20 years. While it has remained an annual event showcasing art from all students and often centered around specific themes, it has continued to strengthen.
Due to the pandemic in 2020, the entire show was moved online. In 2021, it was too difficult to host a show because the students were in cohorts. But the following year, the show was back on. By 2024, the school decided to elevate the experience by celebrating all the arts at TFS and turning it into a fun and engaging community event. Thus, the Celebration of the Arts was born as a new tradition at TFS.
Beginning last year, the event, in collaboration with the media center, includes visual art, drama, music, and storytelling. To make the event even more enjoyable and accessible, we added food trucks so families could spend time immersed in creativity.
“Celebration of the Arts fosters creativity, self-expression, and a sense of community,” shares art teacher Elana Harriss. “By showcasing student talent in music, visual arts, theater, and storytelling, we create a space where everyone can appreciate the diverse ways people communicate and create.” Ms. Harriss and our Fine Arts teachers and administrators pour their heart and energy into the event, enriching our school culture and making it a more vibrant, inclusive, and inspiring learning place.
One of the unique aspects of this event is the collaboration across different disciplines. It brings together students from all grades to celebrate the power of imagination.
Principal Dawn Smith says the event is essential to who we are at TFS: “The Celebration of the Arts nurtures creativity, expression, and a deeper understanding of the world. We honor each child's gifts through music, visual arts, and performance, fostering confidence, joy, and a well-rounded education that speaks to the mind, heart, and soul.”
This year, the Celebration of the Arts will be held on Thursday, May 1, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. We hope you will join us as we support our students and celebrate the beauty of art in our school community!
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