Crystal Allen graduated from San Francisco State University with a BA in Sculpture and a dual emphasis in Robotics in 2010. She followed that up with a 3 month bike tour, 3 months backpacking in Mexico and continued her education in electronics and engineering at Makani Power|Airborne Wind Energy. She recently returned from a 6 month sailing voyage and is living in Oakland working with artists and gardeners. She aspires to build a creative space to undertake new artistic experiments.
I have learned so many skills and habits that have made me a better person throughout my time here. To name a few: I have learned how to be a good roommate, how to communicate, and how to trust myself. I have learned the importance of staying hydrated, getting good sleep, and having a clean work space. I have learned how to share space both in the studios and dorms. Lastly, I have learned that it’s okay to advocate for what you need and that there is no harm in asking for help or support.
— Grace Reynolds, Fall 2023
The art that goes on in most high schools is usually relatively skill-based. At Oxbow, there is more emphasis on looking and seeing and more critical thinking about what you are doing, the human connection, that personal element. Through art you can begin to understand yourself better. That may be the biggest eye-opener for students. It is almost a preview of college. Get out of the mechanical factory high school education and get into something open, new, and invigorating in a small environment.
— Bill Barrett, Former Oxbow Board Member, Former Executive Director of the Association of Independent Colleges of Art & Design (AICAD)
Oxbow gave Will a voice and a community. Under the nurturing attention of his wonderful teachers, he learned that he had the intellectual capability to express himself and that his unique point of view was, in fact, an asset.
— David Becker, Parent
A School Like No Other