This semester, nine student artists began an endeavor to enhance the aesthetic atmosphere at BSM by demanding more of their artistic talent and founding a chapter of the National Art Honor Society. In promotion of artistic expression within the school, NAHS serves as a home to those with outstanding ability and interest in art, while inspiring young artists to expand their potential.

NAHS, led by art teacher Ms. Theresa Puffer and Langford, provides an avenue for recognition of artistic talent, while assisting students in attaining their highest potential in all forms of art. “Our art department needed to expand beyond what we were doing currently. By forming this group, we hope to get more students interested and involved in art,” said Langford.

The nine founding students— sophomores Maggie Langford, Claire Anderson, Megan Beh, Krista Marshall, Frank Torvik, Conrad Schmidt, Mackenzie Matthews, Dana Buckhorn, and Lindsay Effertz—aspire to surface a more extensive awareness of art while instilling in students a deep-rooted appreciation for it. “Not a lot of people at [BSM] really understand or value the importance of art,” said sophomore secretary Beh. “Art can really make a difference in people’s lives.”

Although new to the BSM community, NAHS was established in 1978 by the National Art Education Association with the intent of recognizing and inspiring students—grades nine through twelve—who have displayed exceptional ability in art. Thirty-three years later, the legacy is carried out through BSM’s new chapter of the society. “We’re really excited to be a part of such an honorable and large-scale thing,” said Langford. “I don’t know why we didn’t start this earlier.”

Through their moderately exclusive nature, the group hopes to keep allegiance and enthusiasm prioritized. Students wishing to join must have taken a minimum of two visual art classes in which they received a B average, while also maintaining an B- average in their overall academics. Recommendations from two teachers—one art teacher and one other—are required alongside a sample piece of artwork for the application. “We want every member of the group to be devoted to [NAHS’s] cause so we had to create an extensive application process,” said Langford.

The work of NAHS will extend to life outside of school as they plan to host events such as trips to local art exhibits, movie nights, and themed months for artwork. “We really want the students to see art as something fun that can be incorporated into everyday life instead of just a class that the school forces you to take,” said Mrs. Puffer.

The impassioned students give back to the community through volunteering and contributing to art supplies drives. “NAHS is about more than just being recognized for your art, it’s about using what you have to give back to the community,” said Langford.