In addition to the Museum Program, the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Education Department welcomed over 1,000 students during the 2010-2011 school year. Students sketched and observed the “candy store” of paintings, sculpture, architecture and photographs. For many students, these visits are their first exposure to any museum and their first trip outside their immediate neighborhoods. The students’ enthusiasm for learning and creating was increased by these excursions as was their confidence and willingness to explore the unfamiliar.

Students grew comfortable and confident looking at paintings and assessing various artists’ means of achieving mood, narrative, and balance. At the end of the year, they visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art to view up close those paintings that they had been discussing throughout the year. I believe that these field trips are essential to a healthy art program.
—Annie T., Art Teacher, Our Lady of Lourdes School