Charli McInturff ’23
Art is an expression of human creative will, so why—and how—do we grade it?
“Grading art is always subjective. Grading legitimizes the academic nature of any class,” said art teacher Sydney Caretti.
“Art is definitely a hard thing to grade. Everyone is going to have a different style and process,” said Harriet Brown ’22, a past student in Caretti’s Advanced Studio Art class.
Caretti explains her own criteria for grading art: “Having a continued dialogue in and around the process of creating art – the how and why of composing the 2D picture plane, commanding and employing design elements, and intentionally manipulating the medium.”
But where do we draw the line between grading someone’s creativity and allowing the arts to be just another free period?
A grade seems to undermine the purpose of any class: to learn, but “[i]f art isn’t graded, some students may not put forward the effort necessary,” said Nate Austin ’23, a current student in the Studio Art class. So, yes, a grade needs to be attached.
“Personally, I think judging creativity can be a bit biased,” said Day Kim ’23, another student in Studio Art.
“Anyone can be a good artist if they practice, and with great art teachers, you learn a lot in class. If you put effort into your artwork and apply the skills you learn in class you will be sure to get a good grade,” said Dalilah Winter ’22, who took the course last year.
There are more important aspects of art besides creativity and whether or not it can be judged as ‘good.’ Finished artwork might be a measure of a student’s learning, but it’s not the only criterion. Consequently, there is also focus on the artistic process: how ideas are developed, problem-solving and creative decision making, and most importantly effort.
Using effort as a measuring tool for developing a letter grade is reflective of what is being retained. The process of art itself leaves no room for harsh evaluation; there is only room for feedback and support.
Caretti agrees, saying, “Even the most talented artist has room to improve and learn.”