Earlier this month, over 100 HAS students visited NYC, many of them first-year students. While the trip was open to all art school students and those enrolled in HAS courses, it is organized especially for first-year students to provide an opportunity to experience some of the world’s most famous art pieces.
Students were able to visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Whitney Museum of Art, as well as galleries in Chelsea. They had an opportunity to also visit other public spaces such as the High Line, and Olmsted’s crown jewel, Central Park. The packed day culminated with the busses departing near MoMA, where some students also had an opportunity to experience before heading back to the UHart campus.
Faculty in attendance included Mark Snyder, Terry Feder, Valerie Lyons, and Kevin Hernández Rosa, who all lead the Issues and Art Making course.
This trip was especially meaningful to painting major Kaylee Naomi ’25. She says, “I had an amazing time, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to explore The Met with some of my classmates.” She left feeling stimulated, as she says “seeing centuries-old artwork that pushes creative boundaries left me feeling inspired and connected to a community of artists who expand my understanding of time and creativity.” Some of her favorite parts of the trip included seeing Dali’s collages, a Picasso painting, and the intricate carvings and pottery displays.
For Naomi, this trip “reinforced my passion and motivation in profound way.” In fact, she already has her sights on what she might do post graduation. “After completing my BFA, I’m interested in spending time at a residency to develop a body of work, before pursuing my master’s degree.” The experience left her feeling inspired, and gave her additional fuel to pursue her creative dreams.
Thanks to the Hartford Art School Endowment, Inc. Fund, the majority of the trips costs were underwritten by the Dorothy Whitney Fund. In the spring, HAS is planning to visit the Clark Art Institute and MassMOCA, with more details shared at a later date.