In Smith Jewish Academy’s middle school art studio, creativity and technical skill go hand in hand. Recently, sixth grader Mattan G. pulled his first print from the printing press as part of the class’s printmaking unit — an exciting milestone in a process that blends artistic vision with hands-on engineering.
To create his print, Mattan first etched his design onto a plexiglass plate, then carefully inked and wiped the surface before running it through the press to transfer the image onto paper. Each step requires patience, precision, and problem-solving — skills that mirror the design and experimentation found in many STEAM disciplines.
Printmaking is a powerful example of how the visual arts intersect with science, technology, engineering, and math. Students explore pressure, materials, and process while learning how small adjustments can dramatically change the final result. At the same time, they are developing their artistic voices and learning the craftsmanship required to bring an idea to life.
Moments like this remind us that the arts are not only about expression — they are also about curiosity, experimentation, and the confidence to try, refine, and try again.