Visual Arts
MMA Students Are Visionaries!
The Visual Arts program at Merion Mercy enables our students to find their creative voice and express their dreams, stories, and view of the world through use of visual media. The study of art also enhances self-esteem, cognition, and critical thinking.
Many art processes, techniques, forms and art tools are implemented across the program. Everything from creating with pencil, charcoal, watercolor, and pastels to working with clay in sculpting, to 2D, 3D, and graphic design, printmaking, computer graphics, and more is experienced within the Art Department curriculum.
Honors Art Program
Our Honors Art Program begins in sophomore year. Honors Art graduates garner important skills that will last their entire lives; they will be able to create, produce, and present their art while making connections - both interpersonal and abstract. The prerequisite for an Honors Art student is the presentation of recent pieces of art, an essay and interview with the art department head.
The program consists of sequential advanced art courses (Honors Art 1, 2, 3), with each
level building on the knowledge and skill base from prior work/courses. Students are expected to maintain a high level of initiative and intrinsic motivation to complete work at a faster pace. Honors Art students are expected to display a high degree of personal involvement and responsibility for developing ideas and fulfilling this vision from planning through finished work. Honor courses will require students to develop techniques, and refine their skills, and their level of craftsmanship.
"Merion Mercy produces artists who can think critically, communicate clearly, and who aren't afraid to showcase their ideas." —Erin Lewis '24
Festival of the Arts
Each spring the Art Department celebrates our students’ accomplishments during the Festival of the Arts. The event begins with the official induction ceremony of the National Art Honor Society and Tri-M Music Honor Society, which recognizes students for their service contributions through the visual and performing arts. The Festival includes the Annual Fine Arts Show and the Senior Showcase.
National Art Honor Society
The National Art Honor Society is based on the principles of Art Scholarship, Character, and Service. All students are invited to NAHS with the understanding that members use their creative talents in service of others. After providing at least 15 hours of art-related service to those in need, these qualified students are registered with the National Art Education Association and are inducted each spring at Merion's official induction ceremony.
Fine Arts Scholarship
The Sister Ethel Sweeney, RSM Fine Arts Scholarship is a partial scholarship that recognizes artistic talents, originality, and potential. Recipients are required to participate in the Art Honors Program. See Affording MMA for more information.
