Art Discovery is Helen Baller’s volunteer-led visual arts program, fully funded by the PTA, and designed to bring creativity, curiosity, and cultural connection into the classroom. It’s not a formal art class — it’s something better: an opportunity for students to engage with art as a tool for self-expression and exploration.

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Each month, students are introduced to a different artist through a short presentation that connects their life, techniques, and artistic style to a broader theme — like empathy, courage, or gratitude. Then, students create their own original work inspired by what they’ve learned, using a variety of materials provided by the program.

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This isn’t about getting the “right” answer or copying a famous painting; it’s about encouraging kids to observe, imagine, express, and experiment. We believe every student is already an artist, and our job is to give them time, space, and encouragement to keep creating.

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Because Art Discovery is led by trained volunteers (often parents and caregivers), it builds community alongside creativity. The adults in the room aren’t just instructors: they’re cheerleaders, helpers, and models of lifelong learning.

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By the end of the year, students will have experienced a global range of artists, created a portfolio of original works, and developed a deeper appreciation for how art helps us understand ourselves and the world around us.