Since coming to Osbourn, I’ve found that the community is diverse in so many ways. When it comes to classes, we have such a wide range of interests accommodated – especially when it comes to the amount of clubs. As an artist, I’m always looking for opportunities and ways to connect with other artists, whether it be writing or any of the other many different art mediums, it’s nice to know the options.

So, what kind of art clubs and opportunities are available at Osbourn? 

Art Club – Sponsored by Ms. Taaffe and Ms. Bosarge 

“Our art club is a space that anyone can come and create art.” “Last year, the art club created photo boards for Manassas Christmas parade.” “We also have other opportunities like painting class rocks or painting murals.”

“I recommend that everyone create art. It is very therapeutic and expressive. It is great for mental health. Art is everywhere!” Ms. Bosarge is right. Experience isn’t necessary, and any level of artist is welcomed and encouraged Osbourn’s art club. “Everyone is welcome anytime! We meet on the 3rd and 4th Tuesdays of every month in room 2008 from 3:30 to 4:00pm.”  

“I love the excitement students show when they come to art club!” Ms. Bosarge expresses, sharing that she is also an artist. “Art is a big part of my life, and I am happy to give students the opportunity to create art.”

Creative Writing Class, Literary Magazine – Mr. Edwards 

“We’d love to see new people in Creative Writing!” said senior Kai Johnson, a student of creative writing and editor for the literary magazine. “We typically write a new journal entry every class, and sometimes we analyze a piece of media based on how well it is written.” Analyzing others’ writing makes for a better writer. 

It’s not required that you participate in the literary magazine, but it’s an honorable opportunity. The class might seem for regular writers, the community is welcoming and helpful to new writers. “It can definitely be a little difficult at first if you aren’t used to writing a lot, but you won’t be judged for being a beginner writer,” Kai said. 

“Last year, our school’s literary magazine was sponsored by the journalism team, but this year the creative writing class was able to create it ourselves. It was a lot of work, and sometimes stressful, but it came out amazing and I’m excited to see it finished!” Kai expressed. 

The yearbook has now come out, and the literary magazine, which features Kai’s work too, is beautiful. Everyone worked so hard and it’s amazing their work is able to be hosted and memorialized forever. 

Creative Writing Club – Ms. Sorfi

“Everyone, regardless of experience, is welcome and will find something to enjoy about the club,” said Ms. Sorfi. “Creative students who aren’t afraid to try new things, who love the written word, and have stories to tell are the perfect type of students for this club.”

No matter what you write, there’s a space for you at the creative writing club. “We welcome any Osbourn students who enjoy writing and reading creative nonfiction and fiction in the form of poetry, short stories, novels, children’s books, screenplays, graphic novels, or plays.”

What makes the creative writing club really special is the mix of visual art and written art. “Sometimes we include art in whatever writing or projects we work on,” she says. “An example of this is collaging text with art from magazines and books.” 

Ms. Sorfi is herself an active writer. “I enjoy writing poetry, creative nonfiction, micro-fiction, and short stories, and attending slam poetry competitions.” Ms. Sorfi also shared with me something special, “My dream one day is to publish a memoir.” 

Looking to take it further, Ms. Sorfi has big dreams for the creative writing club. “A big dream for the club is to start an Osbourn slam poetry team,” Ms. Sorfi expresses. “Which would compete against other schools in the DMV region.” For students interested in performance and spoken word, this could be an amazing opportunity. Most importantly, Ms. Sorfi is proud of the club and its achievements. “I am proud that we provide a dedicated time, space, and environment for students to come and produce writing,” she expressed. “The more time students spend writing, the more power they will have.”