In the bright and bustling art studio of Unity Point School, Island Torphy is in her element. The sixth-grader is surrounded by a kaleidoscope of materials—paint, clay, and sketchbooks brimming with ideas—each a testament to her creative spirit. For Island, the Unity Point Art Club is more than just an after-school activity; it’s a place to express herself, explore her imagination, and connect with fellow young artists.

“It’s very fun and sometimes chaotic,” Island says with a grin, flipping through her sketchbook to reveal an intricate collage she’s working on. “Art Club gives me time to work on the things I really want to create.”

Led by Unity Point’s Visual Art Teacher Lisa Janssen, the Art Club is open to students in fifth through eighth grades and meets every Wednesday after school. This year, membership has grown to 34 students, up from 25 the previous year. Despite the tight quarters—extra chairs often need to be brought in—the studio buzzes with energy and excitement.

For Island, this supportive environment has been transformative. “I’ve made some new friends, even though I usually prefer working on my own,” she shares. “It’s nice to be around people who love art as much as I do.”

The Art Club operates on a principle of creative independence. Students can choose their projects and mediums, whether it’s drawing, painting, sculpting with clay, or experimenting with cardboard and collage. The studio is divided into centers dedicated to different forms of art, encouraging members to explore and combine techniques.

“Your ideas are the most important thing,” Janssen emphasizes. “I don’t assign projects; instead, I give students the freedom to create whatever inspires them.”

This philosophy resonates deeply with Island, whose artwork often draws inspiration from her love of 1990s early aughts cartoons like Ed, Edd n Eddy and Chowder. “I’ve been drawing since I can remember,” she says. “I love experimenting with shading and colors—it’s how I express myself.”

Janssen’s journey to becoming an art educator is as colorful as her students’ creations. A lifelong artist, she initially pursued graphic design and painting before transitioning into education. A lifelong artist, she previously had a career as a graphic designer, scenic artist, and arts administrator before transitioning into education.

“I wanted to make art accessible to every child, not just those whose parents sought out opportunities,” she says. “Art Club is an extension of that mission—a space where every young artist feels valued and inspired.”

Janssen’s dedication to her students is evident in the way she recalls their work. She fondly remembers Island’s drawing of Laika, the first dog sent into space, from her first year at Unity Point. “Island’s curiosity and creativity make her a standout artist,” Janssen says. 

“She’s always pushing boundaries with her ideas.”

Beyond fostering creativity, the Art Club provides students with a sense of belonging and accomplishment. It’s a place where they can unwind, listen to music, and immerse themselves in their projects. “Sometimes, it’s just about being around other creative people,” Janssen notes. “Even if a student doesn’t feel like creating that week, they can find inspiration from their peers.”

The club also emphasizes responsibility and community. Students take turns cleaning the studio after each session, ensuring the space is ready for the next group of artists. “Taking care of the studio is part of the process,” Janssen explains. “It teaches respect for the tools and the environment that makes their creativity possible.”

While Art Club already offers a rich experience, Janssen dreams of expanding its opportunities. She envisions field trips to art museums in St. Louis, where students could see professional works and find new sources of inspiration. “It would be amazing for them to experience art on a larger scale,” she says.

For Island, art will always be a part of her life. Whether she’s drawing digitally or experimenting with new materials, she sees creativity as a way to explore the world and share her unique perspective. “Art means everything to me,” she says simply.

The Unity Point Art Club is more than an extracurricular activity—it’s a sanctuary for young artists like Island Torphy. Through the guidance of Lisa Janssen and the camaraderie of her peers, Island and her fellow club members are not just creating art—they’re building confidence, friendships, and a lifelong appreciation for creativity.

As Island flips to another page in her sketchbook, revealing a vibrant scene inspired by her favorite cartoon, her passion is clear. “Art Club is a place where I can be myself,” she says. “It’s where I belong