Arts Department
Picture This …
EHS Students Create Cyanotypes at Monserrat
EHS Students Create Cyanotypes at Monserrat
Everett High School (EHS) art students took a field trip to the Montserrat College of Art in Beverly on Friday, March 3, 2024, enjoying a campus tour and a “cameraless” workshop led by Photo and Video Chair Ron DeRito.
Cameraless photos are created by manipulating light, radiation, and/or chemicals to leave an impression on photo-sensitive paper. During the workshop, Professor DeRito taught the EHS students how to create “cyanotypes” by laying an object on paper coated with a solution of iron salts, exposing it to UV light, and washing it with water to create striking white and blue images.
Following the workshop, Professor DeRito and the students critiqued the work. The day was capped with a catered lunch. The Everett Public Schools thanks Monserrat for hosting two “Studio Days” specifically for EHS students during the 2023-2024 school year.
Cameraless photos are created by manipulating light, radiation, and/or chemicals to leave an impression on photo-sensitive paper. During the workshop, Professor DeRito taught the EHS students how to create “cyanotypes” by laying an object on paper coated with a solution of iron salts, exposing it to UV light, and washing it with water to create striking white and blue images.
Following the workshop, Professor DeRito and the students critiqued the work. The day was capped with a catered lunch. The Everett Public Schools thanks Monserrat for hosting two “Studio Days” specifically for EHS students during the 2023-2024 school year.
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Community Arts Night ‘24
EPS Students Showcase a Wide Range of Talents
EPS Students Showcase a Wide Range of Talents
The Everett Public Schools (EPS) hosted its annual Community Arts Night on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, giving students and faculty the chance to showcase the breadth and depth of the district’s visual arts, theater, and dance programming.
Held inside at Everett High School because of inclement weather, the event featured a live performing arts component inside the auditorium, an art exhibit in the library, and art activities for students and guests inside the cafeteria. Highlights of the performing arts portion of the festivities included:
Held inside at Everett High School because of inclement weather, the event featured a live performing arts component inside the auditorium, an art exhibit in the library, and art activities for students and guests inside the cafeteria. Highlights of the performing arts portion of the festivities included:
- Celloist Keely Paolucci opened the show with a rendition of Vivaldi’s “Spring.”
- Under the direction of teacher Jordana Meltzer, Lafayette students presented “Stone Soup,” which extols the virtues of teamwork.
- Kristin Coffey’s Whittier School theater students staged selections from “The Wizard of Oz.”
- The Keverian School's theatre program, directed by Mr. David Raposo, performed "Right Before Your Eyes!", the opening number from “James and The Giant Peach.”
- The Parlin School's theatre program, directed by Ms. Andi Dudziak, performed stories from “Folk Tails,” a collection of global animal fables.
- The Madeline English School theatre program, directed by Ms. Hope Johnson, performed the short play, "Action News!"
- A selection from Director Lunara Devers and the EHS Dance Program.
- The EHS Theatre Company staged scenes from its upcoming production of “Chicago (Teen Edition).” “Chicago,” which is directed by Britt Mitchell (stage), Corey Crofoot (music), and Ms. Devers (dance), is set for June 5 and 6 inside the EHS Center for the Performing Arts.
For families and guests, there was watercolor painting, drawing, and sketchbook activities in the cafeteria, as well as handcrafted charcuterie selections from Ms. Carolynn Parmenter and the EHS Culinary Arts Department.
The EHS library featured hundreds of visual artworks from students, across all grade levels, showcasing the wide range of courses and programming offered by the district’s art faculty. This includes paintings, drawings, photography, sculpture, jewelry, small metals, fiber arts, hand-stitched embroidery, needle felting, and soft sculpture. In addition, students enrolled in EHS’s first-year Advanced Placement 2D Art and Design course exhibited their completed portfolios.
“These specialized additions provide a stronger, more well-rounded arts education for our students,” said Arts Coordinator Cari DiCicco. “The arts develop and strengthen 21st century skills, promote higher order thinking, and enhance social emotional well-being, connection, and self-confidence. I am so proud of our students and our wonderful faculty!”
Special thanks to Ms. MacWilliam and our wonderful EHS Student Ambassadors who greeted, directed, assisted our guests as they arrived at the event.
“These specialized additions provide a stronger, more well-rounded arts education for our students,” said Arts Coordinator Cari DiCicco. “The arts develop and strengthen 21st century skills, promote higher order thinking, and enhance social emotional well-being, connection, and self-confidence. I am so proud of our students and our wonderful faculty!”
Special thanks to Ms. MacWilliam and our wonderful EHS Student Ambassadors who greeted, directed, assisted our guests as they arrived at the event.
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EHS Artists Showcase Work at the State House
‘Envision’ Exhibit Launches on Monday, April 8
‘Envision’ Exhibit Launches on Monday, April 8
A group of talented Everett High School (EHS) artists were featured at a special exhibition inside the Massachusetts State House. Called “Envision,” the exhibition showcased a wide range of mediums and artistic visions.
Participating artists included:
Shyann Ambersley
Participating artists included:
Shyann Ambersley
Mirelly Anjos De Lima
Yaneli Cruz
Makayla DaSilva
Emma Iarossi
Zayda Pontoriero
Litzi Rivera Euceda
Alisson Solis Deras
Nathalia Catalunia
Yaneli Cruz
Qoing Chen
Mona DeSilva
Cecia Cruz
Anne Souza
Sophia Melo
Thanks to State Senator Sal DiDomenico for extending the invitation to our students, and to art teachers Briana Pierce and Josephine Dougan for coordinating the effort at EHS. The works on display ranged from ethereal spirit animal paintings to observational still-life paintings, landscapes, crochet tapestry, imaginative paintings, three-dimensional sculptures, and hand-stitched embroidery. “Envision” launched with an Opening Reception on Monday, April 8, giving students the chance to talk about their work with Senator DiDomenico, School Committee member Marcony Almeida-Barros, State House officials, and guests. They discussed their inspiration, creative process, and the importance of art in their lives.
Yaneli Cruz
Makayla DaSilva
Emma Iarossi
Zayda Pontoriero
Litzi Rivera Euceda
Alisson Solis Deras
Nathalia Catalunia
Yaneli Cruz
Qoing Chen
Mona DeSilva
Cecia Cruz
Anne Souza
Sophia Melo
Thanks to State Senator Sal DiDomenico for extending the invitation to our students, and to art teachers Briana Pierce and Josephine Dougan for coordinating the effort at EHS. The works on display ranged from ethereal spirit animal paintings to observational still-life paintings, landscapes, crochet tapestry, imaginative paintings, three-dimensional sculptures, and hand-stitched embroidery. “Envision” launched with an Opening Reception on Monday, April 8, giving students the chance to talk about their work with Senator DiDomenico, School Committee member Marcony Almeida-Barros, State House officials, and guests. They discussed their inspiration, creative process, and the importance of art in their lives.
EHS Senior Earns a Full Scholarship to the Pratt Institute
Congratulations to Everett High School (EHS) senior Na'Tayeja Robinson for earning a full merit-based scholarship to the Pratt Institute, one of the top art colleges in the nation. Pratt has a distinguished history that dates to 1887 and offers nearly 50 graduate and undergraduate degree programs in art, design, architecture, among many others. Congratulations to Na'Tayeja, as well as her AP Art Teacher, Briana Pierce and her Studio Art II teacher, Josephine Dougan. Pictured above are selections of Na'Tayeja’s artwork.
Gabby Rivera Presentation
Author Delivers an Inspiring Presentation to EHS Students
Author and artist Gabby Rivera visited Everett High School on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, to give a special presentation to art, ELA, and EL students, which included highlights from her career journey as a writer and the story behind her debut novel, "Juliet Takes A Breath." In addition, Gabby is a writer for Marvel Comics. It was a dynamic presentation focusing on identity, inspiration, and the power of storytelling. Following the presentation, Gabby answered questions and autographed books for books for students and staff.
Thank You, Senator DiDomenico!
EHS Artist Featured on Beacon Hill
EHS Artist Featured on Beacon Hill
Thanks to State Senator Sal DiDomenico for inviting Everett High senior Joao Pedro Santos, digital art teacher Trice Megginson, and Art Coordinator Cari DiCicco to the State House on Wednesday, January 31st. Senator DiDomenico submitted the winning bid for a digital photo Joao envisioned and created as part of his program of study in Mr. Megginson's Advanced Digital Media course. The image now hangs in the Senator’s office.
Senator DiDomenico took the EPS contingent on an informative tour of the State House, where Joa received compliments on his work from a variety of Beacon Hill professionals.
Thanks, also, to School Committee member Marcony Barros for helping celebrate the occasion with Joao and our educators.
Senator DiDomenico took the EPS contingent on an informative tour of the State House, where Joa received compliments on his work from a variety of Beacon Hill professionals.
Thanks, also, to School Committee member Marcony Barros for helping celebrate the occasion with Joao and our educators.
From left: Chloe Chick from Senator DiDomenico's office, EPS Arts Coordinator Cari DiCicco, School Committee member Marcony Barros, Joao Pedro Santos, EHS teacher Trice Megginson, Senator DiDomenico, and Eli Fenechel from Senator DiDomenico's office.
Artist Rixy (right) and K-12 Arts Coordinator Cari DiCicco
Art All Over
Rixy Makes an Appearance at Everett High
Interdisciplinary street artist Rixy delivered a presentation to Everett High School (EHS) students on Friday, December 8, 2023, as part of the EHS Fine and Performing Arts Department Guest Artist Series.
Rixy, the daughter of EHS Administrative Assistant Rixy Reyes Cardillo, talked about the public works of art she has completed in Greater Boston and around the world. She delved into what inspires her artwork, and discussed how she creates murals using both house and spray paints. She also reviewed the public-art proposal process, inspiring students to pursue their own opportunities.
EHS students and teachers have viewed and admired Rixy’s murals around Greater Boston, which made this presentation even more meaningful.
Rixy, the daughter of EHS Administrative Assistant Rixy Reyes Cardillo, talked about the public works of art she has completed in Greater Boston and around the world. She delved into what inspires her artwork, and discussed how she creates murals using both house and spray paints. She also reviewed the public-art proposal process, inspiring students to pursue their own opportunities.
EHS students and teachers have viewed and admired Rixy’s murals around Greater Boston, which made this presentation even more meaningful.
All The News That’s Fit to Print
EHS Students Visit the Massachusetts College of Art and Design
Everett High School art students took a field trip to the Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) on Wednesday, November 29, 2023. Mr. Fred. H. C. Liang, Chairperson of the Printmaking Department, led a presentation on lithography, silkscreen, monoprint, etching and more. Students studied examples of these art forms and Mr. Liang led a discussion focusing on the evolution of print throughout art history. He guided students through their own lithographs using Pronto plates, giving students the chance to see their designs come to fruition directly on the printing press at MassArt.
Lesley Professor and Noted Artist Visits Everett High
Click HERE for more photos of Ms. Lougee’s presentation 
EHS Students Immerse Themselves in Outdoor Art Exhibit
Jewish Arts Collaborative (JArts) Executive Director Laura Mandel led Everett High School students on a lively tour of the outdoor art exhibit, Be The Change, on Friday, November 17, 2023.
JARTS brought the exhibit to Everett’s Glendale Park through a grant award to Art Lab Everett. Ms. Mandel guided EHS students through the exhibit and helped them analyze and interpret the meanings of the sculptures, which included: "Free To Learn" by Ruth Kathryn Henry, "In Other Eyes" by Wen Hao Tien, "The Power of the Vote" by Dana Woolf, "Wishing Well" by Cicily Carew, and "Transcending Borders" by Julia Czeko. (Many students noted that "Transcending Borders" was their favorite piece.) Along the way, Ms. Mandel led a meaningful academic discourse with the students, who shared their emotions and the memories the sculptures elicit. It made for a thought-provoking discussion on what was a picturesque fall afternoon.
JArts is a Boston-based organization devoted to connecting people through the power of arts and culture, while Ms. Mandel is an artist, social entrepreneur, and public art advocate. Thanks to JArts and the Everett Art Lab for creating this engaging opportunity for our students.
JARTS brought the exhibit to Everett’s Glendale Park through a grant award to Art Lab Everett. Ms. Mandel guided EHS students through the exhibit and helped them analyze and interpret the meanings of the sculptures, which included: "Free To Learn" by Ruth Kathryn Henry, "In Other Eyes" by Wen Hao Tien, "The Power of the Vote" by Dana Woolf, "Wishing Well" by Cicily Carew, and "Transcending Borders" by Julia Czeko. (Many students noted that "Transcending Borders" was their favorite piece.) Along the way, Ms. Mandel led a meaningful academic discourse with the students, who shared their emotions and the memories the sculptures elicit. It made for a thought-provoking discussion on what was a picturesque fall afternoon.
JArts is a Boston-based organization devoted to connecting people through the power of arts and culture, while Ms. Mandel is an artist, social entrepreneur, and public art advocate. Thanks to JArts and the Everett Art Lab for creating this engaging opportunity for our students.
Famous Puppeteer Dazzles Kindergartners
Renowned puppeteer Leigh Baltzer performed for more than 70 kindergarten students at the Whittier School on Thursday, November 16, 2023. Ms. Baltzer performed imaginative and engaging renditions of "Owl Babies,” "Little Blue Truck," and "Caps For Sale,” all featuring a variety of puppets and other visuals. Afterwards, Ms. Baltzer answered questions about the stories and her puppets. She also gave every student coloring pages with images of her puppets to take home.
Ms. Dougan’s Work Featured at Lesley University
Everett High School art educator Josephine Dougan’s work is currently featured in an exhibit at the Roberts Gallery at Lesley University. The exhibition, "Then and Now,” celebrates more than 30 years of printmaking at Lesley Art + Design. The exhibition, which runs through December 17, 2023, highlights the work of 15 selected alumni, including Ms. Dougan. The pieces showcase their previous contributions to Lesley Art + Design’s annual print portfolio, as well as a selection of each artist's current work in various media.
Artist’s Journey Stops at EHS
Ray Raja Delivers an Inspirational Presentation
Ray Raja Delivers an Inspirational Presentation
Greater Boston-based artist Ray Raja recently delivered a presentation to Everett High School (EHS) art students about their inspiring personal and professional journey.
Ray immigrated to the US from Pakistan at the age of 16 and quickly discovered a passion for art. Ray discussed their work in fiber arts, animation, sculpture, performance art, and painting. Students immediately recognized Ray's fashion design work, adding to the energy and engagement of the presentation. Following the talk, Ray responded to questions and comments from students about being an artist, entrepreneur, as well as various materials and processes.
Additionally, Ray talked to the EHS students who are enrolled in the Massachusetts College of Art and Design's Saturday Studios Youth Program via scholarships available through a partnership between EHS and the college.
Pictured above (top right) are Art Coordinator Caroline DiCicco, artist Ray Raja, and EHS art teacher Josephine Dougan, who helped two students register for scholarships to the Saturday Studios program.
Fiber Optics!
Fashion Designer JMag Presents to EHS Art Students
Colombian-American Fashion Designer Nathalia JMag, led a virtual presentation and discussion with EHS art students on Tuesday, October 31st. JMag, who is originally from the Boston area, talked about her work, textiles, sewing and embroidery techniques, and her experience competing on Bravo's Project Runway. Nathalia's work focuses on sustainability and sustainable textile and design practices, such as using all scraps of fabric from previous designs, and natural fabric dyeing such as using turmeric, onion and more. Art students learned about Nathalia's journey as an artist and designer, experience in art school and her experience being a young entrepreneur running a small business. Students in Ms. Dougan's Fiber Arts course will apply inspiration and new techniques to their next works.
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Studio Day at Montserrat!
Montserrat College of Art offered a Studio Day for EHS students on Friday, October 13th. This fantastic opportunity gave our students the chance to work with Professor Mark Hoffman on creating artwork that showcased their knowledge of the rule of thirds, form, value, and narrative. In addition, EHS students toured the campus and met with current Montserrat students to learn about the college’s programs, courses, media, and campus life. Thank you to Monserrat for welcoming our students!