Students in Mrs. Wrigley’s AP Art & Design class at Sachem High School East recently took their learning outdoors, practicing the timeless art of “en plein air” sketching in the school’s courtyard.

With sketchbooks and pencils, students observed the textures, movement, and natural light around them, capturing the beauty of the environment through quick studies and detailed drawings. 

The session not only inspired their work but also encouraged students to slow down, reflect, and connect with their surroundings in a meaningful way.

These projects challenge students to develop a personal, in-depth exploration of a theme or artistic question that will guide their portfolio throughout the year.

Mrs. Wrigley emphasizes the importance of experiences like these, noting how observing the natural world helps students refine their technical skills while sparking creativity for larger projects. The courtyard studio served as a reminder that art exists everywhere, waiting to be studied, interpreted, and shared.

This is part of an ongoing series featuring unique experiences our students have "inside the classroom."