Solebury School Celebrates The Arts With Workshops And More

SOLEBURY, PA — Solebury School held its 59th Annual Arts Festival on campus featuring workshops led by professional artists and musicians, student art exhibitions, and live performances.

The festival capped off with an Earth Day celebration, including an outdoor poetry slam, open mic, and arts and plants sale.

"The festival originally started in 1964 by two teachers but in recent years has become more student-driven," shared Erika Fairchild, festival organizer and arts department head. "The Arts Festival gives our students access to professional artists to hone their craft and learn current industry trends. A favorite festival staple is a trip to MorningStar Studios for music students to make a professional recording. Students also develop leadership skills by actively conducting workshops throughout the week. Finally, Friday's Art and Earth Day celebration was like an old-school Solebury vibe hanging out behind the barn."

Pom Pom Squad Performance. (Contributed)

Students participated in daily events and evening performances. Highlights during this year’s week-long festival include a ceramics collaborative wood firing activity with George School; figure drawing with artist Allie Bentley; a music meditation workshop with composer Jarrett Gilgore; a special assembly performance by American indie rock/grunge band Pom Pom Squad; and more.

The Arts Fest has been a long-standing Solebury School tradition since 1964. Over the years, the festival has featured well-known guest artists such as Pulitzer Prize winners Robert Penn Warren and Art Buchwald, legendary performer Don McLean, EGOT winner and renowned actress Helen Hayes, company members from the Martha Graham Dance Center, long-time host of Today and 20/20 Hugh Downs, and many more.

Participating in a DEI Mosaic Setting Workshop. (Contributed)

“The week of Arts Fest opens the doors of the fine art, music, theater, photography, and film departments to the entire Solebury community in celebration of the arts,” shared Kirby Fredendall, Fine Art Department teacher. “Everyone got to spend an entire week immersed in the art experience through performances, workshops, lectures, and fun activities.”

For Arts Festival 2023 highlights, CLICK HERE

David Leopold leads a workshop on Hirschfeld. (Contributed)