Art is present in almost every hallway, classroom, and corner of RM. Murals painted by students from previous graduating classes cover the majority of the walls and depict images relating to different fields of study as well as referencing iconic people and characters. It is rare to spend an entire lunch period without hearing some sort of music being played. In the space between paintings and the sound between songs, a plethora of opportunities to get involved in the vibrant arts scene at RM can be found.
RM Arts Clubs range from crafting groups to spaces for deep diving into art history to students singing their favorite songs either on or very off key. Regardless of a student’s interests or experience, there is an arts club that would welcome them with open arms.
History teacher and sponsor of the Fashion Club Amber Myren emphasized the importance of the relaxed atmosphere and encouraging nature of the club. “On the first day of our first meeting they asked students what kind of fashion that they are interested in or what fashion that they might want to learn more about, and there was tons of different kinds,” said Ms. Myren. “Everyone was like ‘yay we love that, that’s so great, oh my gosh I love your shoes, I love this.’ Like everyone was just like cheering each other on even if they didn’t have the same exact fashion sense.”
Positivity and inclusivity is one of the reasons that art clubs at RM are so special. Students get to express their creativity and find a community of people to lift them up and encourage them in the process. Fashion club, a group dedicated to creating Pinterest boards, shopping with a focus on thrifting and planning fashion shows is just one example of an art club which has become an outlet for creativity and confidence. Another is Fine Lines, a magazine created, run, and published by students at RM. It includes creative writing, photography, film, and other works of art. It is another great way for students to put themselves out there with a supportive community to back them up. Senior Jasmine Chen, who is one of the Editor-In-Chiefs of Fine Lines. can attest to the value of joining. “I think if you’re interested in art of any sort, even if you don’t think you’re that good, if you like writing, poetry, making music and you wanna see other people see your art, I think Fine Lines is a really great opportunity to publish,” said Chen.
The idea that regardless of a student’s self perception of their skill or talent in their chosen art field, they have the same opportunity to share something they have created as anyone else is a common attitude that can be seen throughout all of the arts clubs RM has to offer. An additional example of this is Karaoke club which was a new addition in the 2023 to 2024 school year. At the meetings, students with varying skill levels perform songs on the auditorium stage and receive acclaim in the form of cheers and praise. Whether or not each note is hit perfectly, the crowd will applaud, which can be a major confidence booster for those who need it.
For those who aren’t as interested in the performance arts, or in showcasing their work, Origami Club may be of interest. Senior Kevin Ly, President of the Origami Club views art clubs as communities that should prioritize comfort and respect. “This club is supposed to be a safe space. I want it to be a place where students can also escape from the harsh reality of school and spend their time relaxing while also having fun,” said Ly.
For more information on clubs, please view RM’s official extracurricular list.
