Performing and Fine Arts
Like all subjects offered at High Mowing, the performing arts belong to the curriculum as a way of assisting the harmonious development of the whole student.The practice of art is an integral part of the school program, and an essential component in a complete Waldorf curriculum. Students engage in a wide range of arts in their four years at High Mowing, including music, movement, drama and the studio arts.
Each day music can be heard around the school as individuals practice their instruments, train in the chorus, or rehearse with various groups. Students are able to explore eurythmy, a form of artistic movement found only in Waldorf schools. Eurythmy is an art of movement that brings language into the realm of dance. Using gestures they have learned for the sounds of speech, students choreograph poetry, story, and drama.
Every year, each grade studies an aspect of the dramatic arts during a Block Class and mounts a class play. Sophomores perform a Greek drama, while Juniors present Shakespeare. The whole school is invited to participate in a dramatic production presented in the spring. A recent example is Les Miserables. It is not unusual for students to organize other performances as individual or group projects.
“I think the one thing that was the greatest personal challenge for me, and therefore the greatest personal accomplishment, was taking on a big role in the production of Les Miserables. That was definitely something I did not know I was capable of, and am really proud to have done.”
~High Mowing student
The halls of High Mowing are adorned with the art work of students. Inspiring teachers bring out the best in their students in painting, drawing, a range of textile arts, and photography. In the textiles studio are fourteen floor looms, yarns in every color of the rainbow, and a full range of other equipment and materials to help create almost anything from fiber that you can imagine. Some students gather in congenial circles to knit, embroider, bead, and weave beautiful and useful things. Others work 
diligently at the looms on complex patterned blankets and rugs. Lessons in bookmaking, sewing, felting, basic color theory, basketry, and a variety of other techniques are presented throughout the year. Students can pursue the path of the apprentice potter under the direction of Mrs. Karl, who has mentored five decades of potters in her well-equipped pottery. View a selection of student artwork.
“Eunice’s art class is fantastic. It allows everyone, from beginner to advanced artist, to succeed. Eunice is an amazing teacher. Everyone has improved so much after taking her class! Her class is wonderful, and I would recommend it to anyone.”
~High Mowing student
Performing arts include: Drama, Eurythmy (Basic, Dramatic, Speech & Tone), annual class performances, and music courses
Studio arts include: Drawing & Painting, Batik, Bookbinding, Clay Sculpture, Color Moods, Culinary Arts, Jewelry Making, Metal Work, Painting Styles, Photography, Portfolio Workshop, Pottery, Renaissance Limited Palette Oil Painting, Stained Glass, Stone Carving and Weaving
