Lakeside School

Upper School Visual Arts Faculty Show

The Upper School Visual Arts Faculty Exhibition opened on March 10 in the Pigott Family Arts Center, showcasing the work of our visual arts faculty: Kyle Cook (drawing and painting), Christian Willis (photography), Damian Grava (ceramics and sculpture), and me, Jacob Foran (ceramics and sculpture). This annual show isn’t just about displaying our work — it’s a way for us to model the exhibition process for our students. From making and refining artwork to writing artist statements and installing pieces, we use this as a teaching tool to give students a real look at what goes into putting together a show. It’s especially meaningful for our seniors, who are currently working on their own exhibitions, which will happen in April and May.

Senior Art Shows: April 28-May 13, 2025

Senior visual arts shows — gallery-style exhibitions and receptions featuring the work of our graduating visual arts students — will run in the Pigott Family Arts Center from late April through mid-May. These shows are a collaborative effort, bringing together students working across photography, ceramics, sculpture, painting, and drawing.

More than just an exhibition, this is a chance for the entire community — students, parents and guardians, faculty, and staff — to engage with the work and learn more about the artists behind it. A big part of what we ask our seniors to do is develop a body of work that is deeply personal and meaningful. These exhibits are the culmination of three to four years of dedication, growth, and development in the studio. Over time, students learn to take full ownership of their creative process, pushing their skills and ideas to new levels. Often, their work becomes a reflection of who they are, revealing personal stories, identities, and perspectives. Collectively, these shows highlight a remarkable range of creativity and diversity.

Show 1: April 28-May 2; Reception Monday, April 28, 1:05-1:55 p.m.

William P. (Photography), Emani B. (Photography), Lia S. (Photography), Iris T. (Drawing & Painting), Amber P. (Drawing & Painting), Izzi K. (Drawing & Painting), Emma S. (Drawing & Painting), Kay D. (Ceramics & Sculpture), Imelda R. (Ceramics & Sculpture), Regan R. (Ceramics & Sculpture), Mac D. (Ceramics & Sculpture), Anabelle C. (Ceramics & Sculpture)

Parents and guardians are warmly invited to attend the receptions.

Show 2: May 7- May 13; Reception Friday, May 9, 1:05-1:55 p.m.

Emily P. (Photography), Yoseph K. (Photography), Daniel W. (Photography), Mya W. (Photography), Ava L. (Drawing & Painting), Ava J. (Drawing & Painting), Lily Z. (Drawing & Painting), Josie D. (Ceramics & Sculpture), Alana H. (Ceramics & Sculpture), Liza B. (Ceramics & Sculpture), Willa C (Ceramics & Sculpture), Lucy C. (Ceramics & Sculpture)

Parents and guardians are warmly invited to attend the receptions.

Save the date for Arts Fest: May 21, 5-8 p.m. 

Throughout the year, I’ve been writing about the impact and importance of the arts at Lakeside — if you missed my last article, you can check it out here. Arts Fest is a great chance for parents and guardians to experience the creative community we’re building, so mark your calendars for May 21, 5-8 p.m.

I’m excited to share that this year, we’re expanding this grand finale of arts events to showcase artwork from every visual arts student in both the Upper and Middle School! By including more students, we hope to deepen their sense of connection and belonging while creating a celebration that highlights the beauty and creativity across our entire program.

I hope you're doing well! Feel free to send me your thoughts, stories, or questions — I'd love to hear from you. Thanks, everyone!

Jacob Foran is Lakeside’s Upper School Ceramics & Sculpture teacher and 5-12 visual arts department head. You can reach him at 206-440-2897 or email him and the rest of the visual arts team at info@lakesideschool.site.