The National Art Honor Society (NAHS) is more than a place for students who love to draw, paint and design. At its core, the society blends creativity with service, using art as a way to connect with and give back to the community. As the president of NAHS, Junior Eddy Sutscheck explains, “We’re like across, a little love baby… between National Honor Society and an art club.”

Unlike a regular art club, NAHS focuses on services-based projects. Members take on community initiatives such as painting signs for the Fox Lake community gardens, hosting painting nights, face painting at events and creating custom artwork for local businesses. Senior Phoenix Soloveychik recalls working on the garden signs as a particularly meaningful experience. Soloveychik states “I grew up like helping out at the community garden so that coming back full circle with my art. Being able to help was amazing to me.” 

For the advisor, Ms. Wray, NAHS is also about helping students see art as being more than just a classroom activity. She emphasizes giving young artists opportunities to engage with the community “I’ve wanted to do it because I wanted to help get young artists more involved in the community and get them to do it more than just in the classroom and even see it as a potential career, and make it more of a lifetime thing than just a hobby. ”

Beyond art, NAHS fosters personal growth. Members frequently mention gaining communication skills, leadership experience and even confidence; this was mentioned especially by Sophomore Embry Tucibat. Tucibat explained how they had very strong anxiety and yet NAHS has brought them out of their shell and allowed them to try talking to new people, whether members of the group or people who participate in NAHS’ shows and activities. Other members of NAHS mentioned how working on projects like Grant’s Got Talent strengthened teamwork and problem-solving. 

At its heart, NAHS is a welcoming space. Members describe it as a community built on shared creativity, friendship, and support. Their advice to any students considering joining is simple: don’t be scared. The society thrives on inclusivity, Sutscheck states “Don’t be scared. It’s not scary, I promise. It sounds like it’s a very serious club, but everybody is so friendly and so kind in this club that, like nobody’s gonna judge you, no matter what. We’re all nerds, just like you.” 

All and all NAHS is a place for creativity, friendships, and a place to help the community; they are accepting of all and would love to see you there.