“Writing is a legitimate way, an important way, to participate in the empowerment of the community that names me,” author and documentary film-maker Toni Cade Bambara said.

Within Southern Lehigh High School, there are a plethora of clubs and activities. One that may not be as well-known, but still serves a great purpose, is the Art and Literary Club.

Adviser Mrs. Sheryl Ciotti enjoys operating a club where students are able to express their creativity in an environment that is non-judgemental. When Mrs. Ciotti started working in the district, the Art and Literary Club was already in effect.

“I started working at Southern Lehigh in 1999, and at that time, Mrs. Wendy Earhart ran the Art and Literary Club. When she left on maternity leave, the club sadly dissolved,” Mrs. Ciotti said. “Two years ago, Talia Trackim, Nicole Schroy, and Madeline Hoffert showed a desire to reinstate the club. They asked me to assist them in the process. I am happy to be a part of an organization that inspires a love of the arts.”

The Art and Literary Club members meet every Spartan period on day three and occasionally outside of school. Currently, there are 35 members in the club.

“My favorite part [of the club] is being able to express ideas and opinions with other students,” sophomore Cameron McColgan said.

When the students gather together, there is always work to be done. To influence discussion members of the club are usually exposed to certain writing prompts chosen by the officers, seniors Talia Trackim, Madeline Hoffert, and Nicole Schroy. Other days, Spartan periods may be devoted to working on personal pieces or club projects.

“The topics often promote self-reflection,” Mrs. Ciotti said. “Students then have the opportunity to compose poems, essays, narratives, or create artwork to share with the club. Students are not required to share; however, they are provided with the opportunity to express their work in a non-judgemental atmosphere.”

Some members of the club feel that these activities are beneficial because they bond them together.

“During discussion, people are invited to share their work,” senior Nina Tittensor said, “and sharing your work is an intimate thing to do.”

Last year the club published its first magazine. The three officers organized a team of students from the club to read and assess each submission.

“After reflecting on the emotions elicited from each piece, the team decided on the theme: the four seasons,” Mrs. Ciotti said. “This year we will, once again, have a team who will sift through the submissions to align them thematically.”

The club also coordinates fundraisers and activities that allow students to showcase their work and involve the community.

“This year, we will be hosting a Coffee House,” Mrs. Ciotti said. “In addition, we hold annual bake sales in order to fundraise for the magazine. As a club, we attend the DeSales Poetry Festival, the Health Expo, Freshman Rush, and the Science Fair.”

Earlier this fall, 30 students attended the DeSales Poetry Festival. This was the club’s largest turnout at the annual event.

Most members favor participating in these types of activities. Others are just intrigued by what the club has to offer. The Art and Literary Club serves as a creative outlet for students to express themselves as individuals.