Visual Arts

Welcome to NSA'S Visual Art Conservatory Page

By becoming more aware of our environment, we can begin to notice opportunities for change. The Visual Art Conservatory at NSA is a program which heightens our students' awareness of themselves, their world and the role of art in society.

Through a balance of technical training and the connection of ideas, we foster artists as well as discerning patrons for the future. Our program enhances our students’ capacity to question the world around them, to respond to it creatively and to effect great change.  

How to Apply Optional Schools Application

2025-2026 Visual Arts Audition Requirements

After you have applied to NSA through the school options process, you will receive a link within 24 to 48 hours to schedule your in-person audition. Check your spam folder if you don't see the link.

Required Steps to Audition

• Submit no later than Feb 7 a portfolio showcasing your work.
• Submit no later than Feb 7 a typed 300 word essay.
• An in-person interview on Feb 8.

On Saturday, Feb 8, arrive ahead of your scheduled time for the interview portion of the audition.

Portfolio Entries and Essay  

• Eight images of finished works which display a variety of technical skills, media, and content.
• Images can be from class projects, paintings, sculptures, etc
• Four images from your sketchbook showing process, practice, idea development, artist research, etc.
• One realistic life drawing (still life) in pencil. Submit both the drawing and a picture of your assembled objects for reference.
• A 300 word essay explaining who you are, why you would like to attend NSA, and what you would contribute to our community.

How to Submit

Send Portfolio and Essay (prior to scheduling an audition/interview) via Google document or simple email attachments - you must grant permission to view to the following educators:

• Martha Profitt-Streuli
• Michaela Schnetzer
• Dale Rehn

In the body of the email include:

• Student full name
• Current school and grade level
• Working phone number (for follow-up questions or needed clarification)

2025-26 Visual Arts Auditions.pdf

2025 Middle Tennessee Scholastic Art Awards

Please congratulate these students for their Scholastic Art wins.

Gold Key

• Luisa Benitez
• Loany Canales
• Skye Chambers
• Joselyn Lara Garcia
• Karl Peery Polyn
• Paola Tomas
• Elliott Worley

Silver Key

• Paul Boyd IV (3 Silver Keys)
• Skye Chambers
• Samantha Crum
• Alexandria Miranda
• Khloe Moore
• Anna-Leigh Orozco (2 Silver Keys)
• Karl Peery Polyn
• America Reyes
• Asher Sears
• Sara Villegas

Honorable Mention

• Cortland Harris
• Stella Horton
• Beville
• Abby
• Anna-Leigh Orozco
• Karl Peery Polyn
• Tiana
• Six Sanmiguel
• Paola Tomas
• Elliott Worley (2 Honorable Mentions)

16th Annual Middle Tennessee Student Art Competition and Exhibition Winners Announced

The Visual Arts Conservatory is pleased to announce that there were 16 NSA students honored in the 16th Annual Middle Tennessee Student Art Competition and Exhibition. Please go see their work on display at the Parthenon, up until March 3.