DESIGN STUDIO
WAIPAHU GRADES 11 & 12
The NuVu way
EXPLORE the world and reflect on how to be a change-maker
IDEATE
EXPERIMENT
PROTOTYPE
FEEDBACK
ITERATE
test
tweak
solve
PRESENT
Say it: New View
Yes, it’s a new view on how we learn. The OG NuVu is a design-based education program created in Cambridge, Mass. We are proud to be one of only a dozen schools participating in the NuVu Partner Network — which makes us a NuVuX.
There is not a textbook in sight in our design studio. Students work in our Makerspace and each studio (project) focuses on a variety of technical skills such as sketching, hands-on making, electronics, 2D-to-3D software, textiles, laser cutting, or 3D printing. Students cover their subject material as they create portfolios that include critical writing, design precedents, self portraits, and documentation of their process.
NuVuX is offered to students in grades 11 and 12 on our Waipahu campus, and they earn elective Design Technology credits and English or Social Science credits depending upon the semester. The program is interdisciplinary and can be taken multiple times, including an advanced Capstone course or the option to graduate with NuVuX honors.
Our makers & designers at work
IDENTITY ADORNED
In this studio, students examine the concept of identity as personal, collective, social, and cultural relationships that highlight our individual unique attributes. Using the body as the host, these enhanced aspects of their identity are shaped as wearables, extensions, and activations that reveal true characteristics that make them who they are.
THE SECRET CHARM
Zoey MC
The Secret Charm, a reversible garment, is based on my short story “Charmed to Success.” The main character, Analysis Girl, can change her looks on the go. The idea centers on being in a rush and having the ability to change your identity through reversible clothes.
Precedents and inspiration Design sketching Mini toile Draping and fitting on the body form The finished, reversible design
THE LANTERN PROJECT
Experimenting with CAD and prototype building, students created lanterns with unique patterns that cast a light on themselves or a place important to them.
Inspired by Vincent Van Gogh’s Starry, Starry Night, Liam explored how a scene can flow with no beginning or end.
Anica studied historical patterns representing her bicultural background of Thai and Japanese.
Working with geodes, Deizha drew on her love of nature and the outdoors.
MARE
Maia D, Class of 2024
In this music video, the ocean is personified by a girl who is tormented and slowly dying from the harm caused by human neglect. Wavy guitar riffs set the atmospheric tone of this hopeless love song. Lyrics, multi-instrument musical composition, and video all created by Maia D.
DAYDREAMER
Jay C, Class of 2023
In the short animatic, Daydreamer, the artist illustrates the ways some people cope with life. They explore an idea that the escapism of daydreaming can sometimes cause more harm than good by increasing stress and anxiety.
Who is a good fit for NuVuX?
Those interested in art, design, fashion, or craft
Those on a STEM pathway
People with video and software interests
People interested in making things
Self-driven people interested in social change
