Senior Edition
The TigerTimes
Volume XL
Chagrin Falls, Ohio
May 31, 2017
Chagrin Falls High School Issue 8
Artist Inspires Students C BY CASSIE STURMAN
hagrin Falls High School is creating change in the art world through a resident artist program meant to enrich the studies of sculpture students. Kristen Cliffel is the current resident artist for teacher Libby Harrold. Her work is to enhance the teaching of sculpture through her unique knowledge. “I only do ceramics. I’m so deeply imbedded in the process and it’s so intimate for me. I can help the studio function better and I can facilitate the teacher’s skill set and the student’s skill set,” said Kristen Cliffel. The idea behind this program is not only to enhance the program, but enhance the experience of the students. “She pushes everyone to do their best work,” Riley Kirkpatrick said. “It’s a way for me to have professional development. Having a professional artist in the classroom working with students
and being able to see how she would respond to different questions or how she would approach certain building methods or really any sort or problem solving in ceramics,” said Harrold. By Cliffel’s influence, the art program has been able to expand their focus and work on amazing projects meant to further both the student’s sculpture skills and their knowledge of the business of art. One of the most important facets of any academic institution is to teach about job opportunities. Through this program Cliffel has offered a unique view into her field. “You can totally make a living off of something that you love,” Harrold said. Current budget cuts have threatened art programs around the country. Chagrin High is not immune to these cutbacks. Through the resident artist program, Chagrin is able to counteract these issues. The resident artist pro-
Senior Edition 2017 School (2-3) Sports (4) Community/Metro (5) Senior pages (6-11) Spill over (12)
gram also bridges the gap between the real world and art class. “[Students] always hear about artists, but to actually have them in the classroom with them is completely different,” Harrold said. Additionally, this program works to remind the community how important art programs are in schools. “[She] draws more attention toward the art program and increases interest in art,” said Kirkpatrick. Art is monumentally important to students. It allows them to destress and take a step away from academia. “For me, working on art is a great to relieve stress and relax,” said Kirkpatrick. As Chagrin’s art program continues to flourish, teachers and students alike hope they can benefit from more and more unique artists.
Photos courtesy of Libby Harrold
IN THIS ISSUE:
OABR page 2
Softball page 4
Travis Scott Concert page 5
Senior Photo Collage pages 6-7
Senior College Map pages 8-9