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Santa Catalina School’s certificate program honors students whose dedication and passion align in the arts, marine science, and global education. Certificate recipients go above and beyond graduation requirements to expand their knowledge in a subject they love. The program is designed to give students a college-level educational experience while also exposing them to the professional world.

Carys ’23 is pursuing a certificate in the visual arts. Earlier this month, she participated in a panel discussion about black and white film photography at an event hosted by the Center for Photographic Art. The event, titled “Where Photography’s Past Meets Its Future,” focused on The Weston Collective, which hosts a contest that Catalina students enter every year. Carys won first place in the fine art category in 2022.

Outside of creating art, Carys helps curate the school art gallery through Catalina’s STAR internship program, and last summer she worked as a gallery assistant at the Carmel Art Association. She plans to study art history and museum studies in college (with a possible minor in French) for the ultimate goal of becoming a museum curator.

Why are you pursuing a visual arts certificate?
It has allowed me to explore a variety of creative outlets over my four years at Catalina. As a senior in the program, I am able to develop my portfolio and build on my darkroom photography skills in Studio Art Seminar. Additionally, the certificate program allows me to expand my love for art outside the classroom. On top of building my portfolio, I get to visit and reflect on museums and interview local artists.

How was your experience at the Carmel Art Association?
My experience working as a gallery assistant at the Carmel Art Association was absolutely fantastic! I assisted with all aspects of the gallery, including ringing up sales, preparing artwork for our 95-year historic exhibition, and building personal relationships with clients and over 80 local artist members. My favorite aspect of my job was being able to help a client find the perfect piece of artwork for their home, and sharing the joy they felt. My biggest takeaway was learning what is involved in working at a professional art gallery.

What do you like about being a STAR gallery intern?
Being a STAR Art Gallery intern has been incredibly rewarding. In fact, curating the school gallery is what first inspired me to pursue a career in art history and museum studies. For that, I will always be extremely grateful to Santa Catalina for providing me with such an amazing opportunity. I absolutely love interacting with artwork done by my friends and peers and curating an exhibit that showcases the talent and creativity of our school community.

(Photo: Carys, right, stands with fellow Weston Collective panelist Selma '23 and their art teacher, Claire Lerner.)