Model partnership gives Stevenson HS art students real-world experiences

Stevenson High School student Chantel El Sayah earned the top honor, a Gold Key, in the Scholastic Arts Competition regional competition. Her photo of this Paul Mitchell model (above) is now entered in the national Scholastic Arts contest.

Stevenson High School students have created a model partnership with the Paul Mitchell School of Cosmetology.

Stevenson photography students are visiting the Sterling Heights-based studio to work with models and their advisors to create portfolios being used by students at both schools.

“It has been a lot of fun,” said junior Cassidy Spurr. “It has really given us a lot of confidence and insight into the type of work we want to do in the future.”

Paul Mitchell School of Cosmetology trains students in all phases of styling and modeling.

Through this partnership, the Paul Mitchell students create a “look” with hair, makeup, and fashion for Stevenson advanced photography students.

“I think this is a great opportunity for our students to be part of an actual session involving an actual model,” said art teacher Patti Fields.

Stevenson students get “real world” experience taking photos of the models and working with students and professionals at the school. The high school students use the work in their portfolios and for art exhibits and competitions, such as the Scholastic Arts Competition.

“We are very fortunate to have this great union of our students,” said Christina Leonard, advisor at the Paul Mitchell School of Cosmetology.