Lakeview High School has introduced many new classes into its curriculum over the past year, but one that stands out for its creativity and practicality is “Art For Everyday”. Taught and led by Lakeview art teacher, Jeffrey Piper, the class offers students a chance to step away from the tests and worksheets, and explore their more artistic side while developing useful skills that can be applied beyond the classroom.
Unlike traditional art courses that focus on drawing or painting, Art For Everyday is centered around creating functional and marketable items. The class enables students to engage in arts and crafts projects that have real-world applications, either for personal use or potential business ventures. From homemade home decor to custom accessories, students learn to craft items that not only showcase their creativity but also have practical value.
Senior Jacob Pastore, a student currently enrolled in the class, shared his enthusiasm for the course, “Just in the first month of class, I’ve made a clay pinch pot and candle, a pair of clay key chains, and a set of clay acorn people. It’s been a lot of fun and I really enjoy the hands-on experience of working with the projects as it gives a change of pace from the rest of my classes.”
Another project that students are responsible for in the class is the display boards visible around Lakeview High school. These display boards are found everywhere, from the boards in the cafeteria, to the board in front of the art room, to even the display case in the Library, the students of Art For Everyday are in charge of them. The boards are made to display artwork ranging anywhere from 8th grade Art I, to pieces made by Seniors in Art III, ensuring the artwork has plenty of diversity in subject and level of skill. These displays give the students an opportunity to not only improve the look of the school, but also a chance to give their classmate’s art the recognition it deserves.
During the class, students learn and train many creative skills not taught in other courses. This includes but is not limited to sewing, using design technologies, woodworking, and clay construction among others. Through learning these techniques, students are able to channel their creativity and inner artist into each piece they make, ensuring it is something they are proud of.
Something that Piper clearly cares a lot about, as he mentions, “I strive to have all my students believe they can be creative and to have pride in the products they create in my art room. I want them to be excited about the things they experience in my room and to go home and share these things with their family. “
One of the most unique ways this class differs from others is its focus on being creative and proud of your work. The course takes a step away from all the boring tests and worksheets, focusing more on fun personalized projects. As he introduces each new project, Piper emphasizes the importance of not only making the project, but making it personal, unique. He hopes that each student will take the project idea, and run off with it. Making something truly unique and something worth taking home.
Senior Tylan Nguyen, another student currently in the course, commented on the “take-home policy” in the class. Mentioning how, “On the first day of class, Mr. Piper told the class that if he caught us throwing away our projects instead of taking them home, we would lose half credit on that assignment. ” Something Piper confirmed himself, reinforcing the idea that art should be something students take pride in.
This approach by Piper fosters a sense of accomplishment in the students, as they are not only making art, but producing something they can gift or even sell. This encourages students to see the value in their own creativity and to understand that art isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s also about functionality, craftsmanship, and personal expression.
As the school year continues, the Art For Everyday Students will keep crafting, designing, and showcasing their creativity, proving that art isn’t just just about skill, but about expression, innovation, and finding joy in everyday projects. Whether it’s a clay sculpture, a custom-made key chain, or a beautifully decorated display board, this class gives students the chance to create something meaningful and take pride in their work.
