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Lower School Chapel on March 25 taught students both a history of and appreciation for art in all its many forms.

Art Teacher Kristen Turrietta explained that art takes many forms and has many creators. There is no formal definition of art, just as there is no formal criteria for what makes good art. "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder," Turrietta said. 

Turrietta taught about some famous artists, including Picasso, Michaelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Van Gogh, and the much more recent Andy Warhol. But, she noted, artists can be of any age and have very different concepts.

“Everyone is an artist because we all describe ourselves in our own way," Turrietta said.

Turrietta showed photos of some famous building art: the Taj Mahal and Eifel Tower, and closer to home the Chrysler Museum, which holds art right in Norfolk. 

Art isn't just paintings, Turrietta said. Statues are all over Hampton Roads, including on Norfolk Academy's campus. Also, dance and theater are forms of art. “Art is everywhere," Turrietta said.

Sixth graders helped Turrietta lead the chapel, asking her questions. They then closed the assembly by stating what art can do and be. It adds beauty, makes people think, and is a gift, they said. “To brighten our world."