If you’ve walked through the hallways of Clackamas High School you have probably noticed a vibrant mural near the health center or beautifully curated art displays. Their biggest mural demonstrates the joy of listening to music and taking care of yourself through food, meditation, and physical activity. Chances are the National Art Honor Society (NAHS) is behind these wonderful art pieces. This club is where creativity meets community, providing students with a space to express themselves and make a difference through art.
Founded in 1978 by the National Art Education Association, NAHS was created to recognize exceptional students in visual arts and promote leadership, community service, and cooperation. At our school, the NAHS chapter is active and gives students a venue to display their work, participate in service projects, and network with other artists. The essence of NAHS is how they unite the community through creativity, from painting murals that light up our school to creating colorful bookmarks to give out in the library. These members are leaving a lasting impact on our campus and community.
“I joined the National Art Honor Society to create for the community and leave an impact through art,” said Anna Mitchenkov, a high school senior and now NAHS president. “It’s given me the confidence to share my work with others and meet other artists who are as dedicated as I am.”.
In addition to their art projects, NAHS members also have access to networking and scholarship opportunities. The national conference of the society gives students the chance to attend workshops, hear professional artists, and learn about art careers. For students interested in studying art in college or as a career, this experience is priceless. This club offers many scholarship and volunteer opportunities. Naturally, none of this would ever be possible without the assistance of dedicated art teachers and advisors. “Allows students to use their passions in a way that is of service, and teaches students leadership,” stated Ms. Kayser, Clackasmas’s NAHS advisor. At a time when art education programs are most likely to be cut from budgets, organizations like NAHS are crucial in the promotion of the importance of creativity within the school system.
By encouraging students to find their artistic talents and give back to their communities, NAHS is producing the artists and leaders of the future. For art enthusiasts who wish to put their own stamp on the world, becoming a part of the National Art Honor Society is not merely being recognized—it’s splashing the world with color.