The Los Angeles County High School for the Arts (LACHSA) combines college-preparatory academics with conservatory-style training in the visual and performing arts. Founded in 1985, the tuition-free public school is recognized as one of the premier public arts high schools in the U.S. More than 95% of graduates matriculate to college, many with scholarships to the world's finest institutions.

The school serves 520 culturally and socioeconomically diverse teens from more than 80 school districts. Prospective students audition for acceptance into one of five departments: Cinematic Arts, Dance, Music, Theatre, or Visual Arts. 

The LACHSA Visual Arts department enjoys a reputation of excellence for the study of art and design by providing students with skills and techniques in various media while focusing on basic skills, concepts, and theory.  Its students enter the finest art schools and universities nationwide.  The Foundation year is followed by a diverse curriculum in Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Photography, Printmaking, Ceramics, Graphics, Illustration, Fashion, Experimental Film, and Animation. Classes are supplemented by visiting artists, and field trips to LA museums and galleries. Students have exhibit opportunities throughout the year in professional venues and their work is produced in an annual portfolio, The Gift of Love.

Unique to the high school experience, LACHSA has an esteemed visual arts faculty comprised of working professional artists, each of whom is recognized in his or her own discipline. 

These artists teach classes in their field of expertise while also working on their own projects. They pass their real world  knowledge to their students while providing them with the opportunity to explore new art forms and media. 

The program is led by Co-Chairs and VA faculty artists,  

Barry Markowitz and Liz Young. 

(photo: VA Co-Chair Barry Markowitz, by Wyatt Workman, VA'21)