Raider Art Club Brings Color and Creativity to Thursday Afternoons at Richmond Senior High

Every Thursday afternoon, the first floor of Richmond Senior High School’s E Building comes alive with color, conversation, and creativity as dozens of students gather for one shared passion — art.

The Raider Art Club draws members from across the school community, including students involved in band, JROTC, and other extracurriculars. What unites them, however, is their love for creating and expressing themselves.

Kristen Perry, one of Richmond Senior’s three art teachers and a club co-advisor, said the group has become a place where students can connect and grow beyond the classroom.

“We want our students to have confidence in their own creative abilities and know that there are other students who share that same creativity bug,” Perry said.

Because art classes have limited space, not every student gets the chance to enroll during the school day. That’s where the club fills the gap.

Art teacher and club advisor Lonnie-Monique Jasper said the club provides an important outlet for students who want to explore and develop their artistic talents.

“In the art club, we’re able to give students an opportunity to continue their love for art after school,” Jasper said. “We can’t live without art. Art is life — and showing our students how their creativity can open doors beyond the classroom is what makes it so meaningful.”

For the Raider Art Club, Thursday afternoons aren’t just about drawing or painting — they’re about building confidence, friendships, and a lifelong appreciation for creativity.