Visual Arts senior Jery Chen and sophomore Aubrey Harry participated in summer programs designed to take their artistic skills to the next level. Jery participated in the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Pre-College Program, a highly competitive month-long course designed to challenge and elevate the artistic abilities of young students. Aubrey participated in a week-long Summer Seminar at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). The program provided a comprehensive glimpse into campus life, mimicking the daily routine of a college student with two courses each day, three meals, and various afternoon activities.
Jery Chen’s Experience at RISD Pre-College Program
Jery chose drawing as a major, a subject that is both demanding and rewarding. The drawing class met twice a week and focused on various aspects of artistic observation and technique. Students learned to see the world in terms of perspective, value, shapes, and negative space; and they honed their skills through direct observation. The coursework included still life, nude models, portraits, landscapes, and cityscapes. After each class or assignment, students engaged in a three-hour critique session where the professor discussed each student’s strengths and weaknesses. While the feedback could be intense, Jery feels that it played a crucial role in her growth as an artist.
In addition to the major, Jery took a design foundation class that introduced students to the principles of design, including balance, shape, color, pattern, and space. The projects in this class ranged from 3D plaster and clay work to logo design and still life, providing a comprehensive introduction to both two- and three-dimensional design concepts.
Jery’s schedule also included a drawing foundation class, which focused on basic drawing skills. This class helped sharpen observational abilities through figure drawing and still life, laying the groundwork for more advanced artistic exploration.
The final course, Critical Studies in Art, taught students how to write about art in a compelling and insightful manner. This class emphasized the importance of analyzing and responding to artistic ideas both verbally and in writing. As part of the course, students visited the RISD Museum to study artworks from different periods and contexts, culminating in essays that explored the artists’ intentions and backgrounds.
The RISD Pre-College Program proved to be a challenging experience for Jery, with students averaging ten drawings per week. “In this high-pressure environment, my drawing foundation and thinking have been improved a lot,” said Jery. “I was very lucky to be accepted by the RISD Pre-College Program.” This rigorous environment significantly improved Jery’s drawing foundation and critical thinking skills. Out of more than 900 applicants, only 500 students were accepted into the program this year, and Jery feels fortunate to be among such a talented and passionate group. The intense learning atmosphere at RISD, where everyone is striving to improve, is something Jery deeply appreciates.
RISD Pre-College Program
Aubrey Harry’s Experience at SCAD’s Summer Seminar
Highlights of the week included a movie night, a riverboat cruise, a silent disco, and a pool party. For the academic portion of the seminar, Aubrey chose to engage in two courses: equestrian riding in the morning and an afternoon course, Architecture: Sketching the Interior.
Each morning, participants took a bus to SCAD’s beautiful equestrian facility, where they were introduced to the daily procedures followed by team riders. The program provided some students with new horses each day. Aubrey had the pleasure of riding a particularly sweet horse named Porkchop. The lessons focused on endurance training and the skills necessary for collegiate-level riding and associations. Participants also gained insight into how SCAD’s equestrian program operates, including the tryout process and the rigorous daily schedule, which involves a significant amount of gym work.
The course entitled Architecture: Sketching the Interior was equally engaging. Participants learned basic architectural concepts, techniques, and principles, including how to create various building designs from just a few simple steps. As the week progressed, they explored the building arts center and the SCAD Museum, where they had the opportunity to sketch different areas. The course also offered a look into architectural portfolios, and the professor provided resources for continued learning beyond the classroom.
The seminar concluded with a family day on Friday, where participants showcased everything they had learned throughout the week. “Overall, it was an amazing experience where I got to learn more about campus life, the riding experience, and basic architectural skills,” said Aubrey. Looking ahead, Aubrey plans to participate in SCAD’s longer Rising Star program after junior year, which offers an extended experience and the opportunity to earn college credits. This summer seminar was an excellent introduction to the college environment and a way to start small before committing to a more extensive program.
SCAD's Summer Seminar
