AP Art & Design work

In the AP Art and Design course, Grade 12 students dive deep into self-expression, culture, and identity through an ambitious project: creating a portfolio of pieces all centered around a personal "inquiry question." Taught by Chris Bateman, Head of Visual Art, this course challenges students to explore their passions, refine their skills, and push the boundaries of their creativity.

Whether focusing on 2D design, 3D design, or drawing, the program demands dedication and self-motivation. It’s not just about producing art—it’s about weaving a narrative, questioning the world, and finding answers through creative exploration.

The Stories Behind the Art

Each student’s portfolio offers a glimpse into their unique perspective, using mediums as diverse as digital art, mixed media, and traditional painting. Here’s a closer look at some of the projects:

AP Art & Design Cindy Huang

Cindy Huang: Elegance Forged in Iron
Cindy combines Rococo-inspired designs with elements of armour to explore the tension between fragility and resilience in femininity. “Each piece symbolizes the coexistence of elegance and strength,” she explained. Using pencil and ink, she crafts ornate dresses that merge seamlessly with metallic forms, reflecting modern empowerment through historical aesthetics.

AP Art & Design Beatrice Sharpe

Beatrice Sharpe: Values of Nature
Growing up here on Canada’s West Coast, Beatrice found inspiration in the natural world. Her acrylic and pencil works feature animals like albatrosses, wolves, and raccoons, each symbolizing important life values. “Nature has always been a guide for what I find important,” she shared. Her pieces invite viewers to reflect on connection, resilience, and the lessons we can learn from the wild.

AP Art & Design Angel Guan

Angel Guan: Illuminare
Angel’s white pastel drawings explore how light affects the perception of human features, depth, and form. “I wanted to examine how light from different angles alters texture and luminosity,” she said. Her works play with softness and shadow, inviting viewers to see familiar faces in a new, glowing light.

AP Art & Design Sophia Huang

Sophia Huang: Unpacking Home
Sophia’s mixed media pieces explore her identity as a Chinese Canadian. “Much of my artwork advocates for an authentic representation of my culture,” she explained. “I aim to celebrate its beauty and depth while challenging stereotypical portrayals.” Through vibrant textures and layered imagery, Sophia merges her Canadian upbringing with her Chinese heritage, unpacking what home truly means.

A Glimpse Into the Process

 

AP Art & Design Caitlyn Mullens
Caitlyn Mullens

Beyond the individual inquiry questions, the AP Art and Design course pushes students to think critically about their work and its impact. From Gothic-inspired designs to reflections on identity through mirrors, each portfolio tells a deeply personal story.

These students are learning to think like artists, not just in terms of technique but in understanding how to communicate ideas and emotions effectively. 

AP Art & Design Jonathan Ooi
Jonathan Ooi

Caitlyn Mullen, for example, tackled the inquiry question: Knowing what it means to be seen and the difference between how people perceive you and how you perceive yourself. Her portfolio uses expressive imagery to bridge the gap between perception and reality.

Similarly, Jonathan Ooi explored identity through the metaphor of mirrors in Reflections of Identity. “Each piece conveys different perceptions of self—insecurity, pain, passion, and even ego,” Jonathan explained. His digital media works highlight the complexity of self-reflection and personal growth.

These portfolios are more than just a collection of art—they’re windows into the minds and hearts of the next generation of creatives. 


An Invitation to Explore More Art

The art featured in this article offers a glimpse into the incredible creativity of SMUS students, but there’s even more to discover. Editors Angel Guan and Jonathan Ooi have curated the latest issue of SMart Magazine, the online art journal showcasing the talents of SMUS students across grades.

Take a moment to explore this beautiful collection, featuring not only the works of Grade 12 AP Art & Design students but also contributions from other budding artists in the Senior School.

Check out SMart Magazine to celebrate their inspiring artistry. Special thanks to Ms. Jones, Ms. Rusnak, Mr. Cargill, Mr. Wong, Angel, Jonathan, and all the students who made this issue possible. More works will be featured in upcoming editions—stay tuned!


Experience Student Art in Person!

Don’t just admire the creativity online—come see it live! Mark your calendars for two exciting upcoming art shows featuring our talented students:

  • February 27–March 1: A showcase in the MacPherson Playhouse galleries.
  • April 14–17: A major exhibition in Brown Hall during the Celebration of the Arts week.

Both events promise to highlight the incredible talent and hard work of our student artists.