THE ARTS
The Arts are valued highly at Avila.
The Arts are unique, expressive, creative and communicative forms that engage students in critical and creative thinking and help them understand themselves and the world. In every society The Arts play a pivotal role, socially, economically and culturally.
Avila College offers Art, Drama and Music from years 7 to 12. These subjects are further enriched through the extra curricular program.
Art
Art is highly valued at Avila because it provides society with a rich, historical and cultural record of all aspects of life. The study of Art encourages individual creativity and self expression.
Visual Arts at Avila encompasses painting, drawing, textiles, ceramics, photography, printmaking, visual communications and design, and digital imaging.
Through Art, students explore different media and application techniques, develop skills of design and production. They also study cultural and historical contexts.
Students visit outside exhibitions and productions in order to further evaluate, compare and interpret a diverse range of artistic works.
In an age when information is being communicated visually at an unprecedented rate, these skills of analysis and interpretation are important to all students.
Students' work is featured in Avila's annual art exhibition which is held in October at the College.
Music
Avila enjoys an excellent reputation for its orchestra and choirs.
Music is compulsory in years 7 and 8. In Year 7 each student learns an instrument and performs in a section of a class orchestra. Music is an elective at years 9 and 10, offering choices that cater for beginners through to competent, trained musicians. Music Performance is offered at VCE level.
Drama
Drama is a fun and energising part of the year 7 and 8 curriculum. Students are encouraged to develop their confidence in voice and improvisation. Electives in Drama are offered at years 9 and 10 and these provide a sound background to the VCE units of Drama and Theatre Studies offered in years 11 and 12.
Creative Arts Festival
The annual Creative Arts Festival is a stunning showcase of student Art, Music and Drama.
More than 500 students participate in this spectacular event which is held at the Robert Blackwood Hall, Monash University. Highlights of the evening include student devised pieces, group and soloist performances and Avila’s 120-piece orchestra.
Behind-the-scenes the Backstage Crew of about 20 students ensures the smooth running of the evening. Interested students become part of backstage as an extra curricular activity. Through involvement in the Backstage Crew, many students experience a diverse range of skills including lighting and sound, and stage management as well as working as a team and logistical planning.
