During Wellesley Middle school years, 8th grade students are given the choice of several electives within the visual art dept. This allows students interested in art to choose a specific art material they would like to concentrate on. For Drawing and Painting students, they will be challenged to explore further with quick gestural sketches, to realistic observational drawing, to understanding the value and tonal aspects of color in painting techniques. By the end of the course, students will have a strong foundation of elements and principles of art within a 2D format to bring to the next level if they so choose to continue their studies of visual art at the high school level.
Students at Work
Finished Student Work
Instructor/Educator
Jessica Lau is a dedicated educator with over a decade of experience teaching within the Wellesley Public School system. Since joining the district in 2010, Jessica has had the opportunity to teach at all grade levels K-12, providing a comprehensive understanding of students’ developmental needs and academic growth trajectories.
Equipped with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from Syracuse University and a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from Lesley University, Jessica possesses a formidable arsenal of knowledge and expertise. Her passion for education is paralleled by her profound affinity for ceramics. This dedication has led to immersive experiences, including international study at the Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute in China, instructing at the New Art Center in Newton and working as a production potter for Jill Rosenwald Studio in Boston.
As an educator, Jessica is committed to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression in every student. Through hands-on experiences, collaborative projects, and personalized instruction, she empowers students to discover their artistic voice and develop essential skills for lifelong learning.
Ms. Steinberg has been working in the Wellesley Public Schools as an Artist Educator since 2006. She has taught art at all levels in WPS and is currently at the middle school. Ms. Steinberg teaches 6th and 7th Grade Visual Arts, the 8th Grade Digital Art and Design elective, the 8th Grade Drawing and Painting elective, and the 8th Grade Mixed Media elective. Ms. Steinberg is also an advisor for the Yearbook Club.