If you were to read a typical description of the High School of Art and Design in New York City it might look like this: a career and technical education high school located at 1075 Second Avenue in Manhattan, New York City.
But if you could suddenly turn invisible and visit the classrooms and walk through the school’s hallways — the experience might better be described as psychedelic.
First, you’d feel the sheer energy of young artists blooming — often in many directions at once. A sense of discovery thrills the air. Invention is non-stop. The intellectual and intuitive co-mingle in bursts of color and sound and triumph. The atmosphere is infused with the irresistible urge to leap.
Since being founded in 1936, many gifted people have been educated here. Many have gone on to glorious careers in their chosen field. The list starts with names such as Paul Winchell, Tony Bennett, Ralph Bakshi, Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs and more recently Mobb Deep.
Many names you’d recognize. Many you would not because they are not household names. But that does not mean their accomplishments have not had a profound impact on the world of art and design.
The faculty, too, includes fabulous artists who share their genius with a generosity and regard for HSAD history that continues to inspire.
But more important…the list of names continues to grow. Every year fresh faces — bright lights!— contribute and challenge and make this school, city and the big wide world of art, as well as business, a more exciting and invigorating place.
I’m proud to feature the work of some very talented students who still roam the hallways of HSAD — even though they already have begun their professional lives at Andaz 5th Avenue and other venues.
Behold.
Take a deep breath.
Then behold again — the circle of life is an ever-changing kaleidoscope.
