Art Club, once dormant for years, has officially stepped back into the spotlight thanks to a few students who decided it was time to revive it. Sophomore Emily Wang, the club’s president, said the idea started long before the doors opened this fall.
“I’ve always had a passion for art, and I knew a lot of people who wanted something like this on campus,” Wang said. “There was no club that really created opportunities for students who just enjoy making things.”
The students’ determination, paired with the support of Mrs. Jill Mortensen and student guidance, brought the club back to life entering the 2025–26 school year. After months of planning, coordinating and paperwork, the new Art Club launched with hopes of becoming a reliable creative outlet on campus.
Club Vice President, Evangeline Christensen, said the revival was something she and Wang had been thinking about since freshman year.
“Emily always talked about wanting to get it running,” Christensen said. “This year we were actually able to get everything set up. It feels good finally seeing it come to life.”
The club has already hosted a hands-on clay workshop earlier in the semester, giving students a chance to experiment with sculpting and small projects. Both officers said the turnout was strong and the feedback encouraging.
Looking ahead, members are hoping to expand involvement through spring activities and potential fundraisers. Christensen said they’re exploring ideas like selling small handmade items and reinvesting the funds into more opportunities for students to create.
Wang said her main goal isn’t just producing art, but building community.
“I just want to make people happy and give them more chances to participate,” she said. “Students who love art deserve more spaces to express that.”
With new momentum and growing interest, both leaders hope the club won’t just return for a year; but instead remain a staple at Ripon High long after they graduate.
“I’ve always wished Ripon had an art club,” Christensen said. “Now that we finally have one again, I want to see it last.”
Kudos to the Ripon High School Art Club and to all who are leading and participating in it. All the best to you guys!
