At Lake Oconee Academy, creativity is not just encouraged, it’s celebrated. Across every fine arts discipline, from visual art to band, our students are given the space, instruction and inspiration to develop their talents and share them with the community. LOA is proud to shine the spotlight on its Fine Arts programs and the many ways students are flourishing.
This past October, LOA art students participated in the Georgia National Fair Fine Arts Competition, submitting the maximum amount of 50 pieces across a variety of media. Senior Yamiley Perez brought home top honors, earning First Place in Youth Art and Best in Category for watercolor, “Ancient Feathers” with her piece inspired by the ancient energy of the Hoatzin bird.
“I wanted the colors and character to reflect that sense of wisdom and timelessness,” Perez shared. “It was fun to play with the colors and see where it went. It’s also super cool to see what everyone else makes and kind of inspiring to see so many different perspectives and creativity in one place.” On stage, LOA’s One Act Play team also celebrated a standout season with their moving production of A Monster Calls. The theater cast delivered an emotional, visually rich performance that earned First Place at the GHSA District One Act Competition, advancing the troupe to State. Recognitions included: Bryson Herbert - Best Actor, Lilian Garcia-Carreras - Best Actress, and Linda Cason & Audrey Lowe - All-Star Cast. Judges praised the ensemble’s unity, maturity and ability to bring a challenging story to life with depth and authenticity. Families enjoyed a special encore performance on campus, which allowed the LOA community to experience the talent and dedication of our student cast and crew right at home.
Looking ahead, the LOA music program continues to expand its excellence. The Jazz Band and elementary music classes recently delivered a patriotic musical tribute during the school’s Veterans Day celebration that honored our nation’s heroes through student performances. Our musicians are currently preparing for upcoming opportunities such as the District Jazz Band Clinic and District Honor Band, scheduled for February 12–14. These events give student musicians the chance to develop their skills alongside top performers from across the region and represent LOA at a higher level.
LOA pianists are also hard at work in the piano lab, where individualized instruction and modern tools help students build strong technique and musical literacy from the ground up. Whether a beginner or advancing student, every Titan pianist is supported in developing their skills and confidence.
Other areas of LOA’s Fine Arts program are shining as well, from drawing and digital design to choral ensembles and instrumental music, students are encouraged to explore a variety of artistic mediums. Teachers across the fine arts foster environments where creative risk-taking is welcomed, skills are honed with care, and students learn to express themselves with confidence and purpose.
Whether on canvas, a stage or in the music room, LOA Titans are discovering who they are as artists and sharing their talents with the broader community. Their work is a testament to the school’s belief that creativity is essential, powerful and worth celebrating. The future of the arts at LOA is bright and full of promise.