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The Arts

The Arts

Art class

Through the arts, we OPEN new understandings and disrupt conventionality with creativity.

Seizing all that New York City has to offer, Calhoun’s arts program empowers students to uncover new understandings of the world around them. Because we recognize that the artistic process fosters unique skills in our students – discovery, problem-solving, creative risk-taking – we integrate the arts across divisions and subjects. Our experiential approach to art education makes the learning process more engaging, and demonstrates the interconnectedness of knowledge across disciplines.

By connecting art to oneself, one’s community and the world, Calhoun students not only share their creations with their school and city. They pave – and paint – new pathways and possibilities.


Next Performance

Calhoun students can choose from a wide variety of music classes, and work in small groups with professional music faculty.

Calhoun’s theater program celebrates each student’s talent and creates a rich learning experience that fosters creativity, communication and collaboration.

In visual arts classes, students develop problem-solving skills, learn to work collaboratively, and discover the art of diverse cultures across history.

Electives and Extracurricular Opportunities

  • Jazz, orchestral and chamber music programs
  • Acting, directing, playwriting, tech design
  • Pottery
  • Sculpture
  • Painting
  • Printmaking
  • Graphic design
  • Filmmaking
  • Photography
  • Woodshop

81st Street Art Studios

Calhoun’s visual arts programming takes place in our art studios, wood shops and dark room. Classes include painting, pottery, sculpture, printmaking, graphic design, photography and more.

81st Street Performing Arts Theater

Calhoun's Mary Lea Johnson Performing Arts Center has multiple floors dedicated to the performing arts. We have two theaters, and dedicated rehearsal spaces for our student musicians and actors.