In the Studios

Spring & Fall 2013 Teaching Assistant Laura Brentrup

02/11/13

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It is such a joy to return to Napa and once again be part of the incredible program that is Oxbow! I attended Oxbow my junior year, as part of OS16 in the spring of 2007. I then went on in pursuit of a BA degree in Art from Elon University in North Carolina. I graduated this past spring and packed up more boxes of ceramic artwork than I did anything else! I am interested in going into art education at the high school/college level and see this as a wonderful opportunity to observe and engage in an unique model of teaching and learning. These talented students are at such an enthusiastic and creative age, I look forward to being inspired by them while at the same time sharing my passion for art and teaching over this transformative semester. To view samples of my work, please visit: https://sites.google.com/site/laurabrentrup/.

It's been a whirlwind week, but also a time when I sang the praises of Oxbow to my colleagues. I've been thinking much about how Oxbow is an exemplar of true education. That art centers the curriculum is hardly surprising, and for those of us who work within the traditional educational mold Oxbow offers a gold standard of focused project based learning. Beyond the school's approach to immersive experience are the intangibles which make Oxbow different. The sense of community and of working together, even as each student retained their strong individual presence is palpable. The feeling of warmth and trust between the adults and the nearly adults in the Oxbow community could be felt throughout the campus. The openness of the architecture and interconnectedness of the three studios in themselves speak of the Oxbow philosophy and identity. More than form follows function, the physical attributes of Oxbow have a distinct warmth and invite exploration.

I'm sure that the ongoing challenges of leading and reinventing your school might sometimes keep you from having the time to see Oxbow with the fresh eyes of a visitor, but your steady presence and vision are really visible in every detail. Thank you for inviting me to one of the most profound experiences in my career.

— Ken Rush, Visual Arts Department, Packer Collegiate Institute

Advice I would give to future students is to just do it and come to Oxbow and not overthink it because it will most likely (99.9%) be the best decision you have made in your life.

— Malachi Snyder, Spring 2018

I have learned so many skills and habits that have made me a better person throughout my time here. To name a few: I have learned how to be a good roommate, how to communicate, and how to trust myself. I have learned the importance of staying hydrated, getting good sleep, and having a clean work space. I have learned how to share space both in the studios and dorms. Lastly, I have learned that it’s okay to advocate for what you need and that there is no harm in asking for help or support.

— Grace Reynolds, Fall 2023

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