This week, our 7th graders embarked on an inspiring field trip to the Seattle Art Museum (SAM). The experience combined creativity, critical thinking, and social awareness as students explored the museum through a thoughtfully designed scavenger hunt .
During the hunt, students searched for art pieces that connected to specific themes: “What social justice issue do you see?”, “How does the art affect your mood?”, and “What art reminds you of a person or place in your life?” Along the way, they sketched their favorite art pieces and described their observations. The activity encouraged deeper engagement with the art and provided a unique way for students to reflect on its meaning and impact.
The 7th graders visited a range of exhibits, including Modern and Contemporary Art, Native Art of the Americas, and special installations like Thaddeus Mosley and Alexander Calder’s works. One exhibit that particularly fascinated our students was Joyce J. Scott’s, Walk A Mile in My Dreams. Joyce J. Scott’s exhibit is a profound blend of art and activism, using vibrant beadwork, sculpture, and textiles to explore issues like racial injustice, gender inequality, and environmental concerns. Her work invites viewers to think critically about these topics while celebrating resilience and the power of storytelling. For our students, this exhibit sparked meaningful conversations about how art can serve as a voice for change. It also helped inspire potential ideas for their “Pay It Forward” projects, where they’ll explore ways to address social justice issues in their communities.
By the end of the trip, students had not only deepened their appreciation for art but also reflected on how creativity can inspire action. This experience encouraged our student to think about the role art can play in understanding and addressing the world’s challenges.
Located in the Central District, Seattle Girls' School is an independent school for girls and gender nonconforming students in grades 5-8. Our mission is to inspire and develop courageous leaders who think independently, work collaboratively, learn joyfully, and champion change.