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Critical Analysis and Rhetoric Skills Honed in NBS Lectures on Art

Dali, Altorfer, van Eyck, Vasari, and Raphael...During Friday morning's NBS Lectures on Art Finals, our eighth grade finalists provided in-depth critical analyses of notable works of art by these master artists before an audience of the boys' peers from the Nightingale-Bamford School and a panel of judges comprised of faculty members, administrators, trustees, and art experts.

One of four summary projects that the boys complete in their humanities course, the NBS Lectures challenges all of our eighth graders with researching an artwork of their choice and presenting a lecture that includes analysis of several components, such as iconography, gesture, color, impact of the artist, and historical setting.

The boys were judged on the quality and depth of their research and analysis as well as their presentation skills and the visual design of their slides.

It is no easy task for a boy to undertake such a complex multifaceted project. Each presentation was superb, and all of the finalists should be proud of their accomplishment.

The humanities course at Saint David's, taught by art historian Nancy Iannicelli, is a signature learning experience that challenges our boys to dig deeply and focus intently. It hones their analysis and rhetoric abilities, while demonstrating respect for scholarship and the rigorous pursuit of knowledge.



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