Visual Art

The AP Art and Design program consists of three different courses and AP portfolio exams – AP 2-D Art and Design, AP 3-D Art and Design, and AP Drawing – corresponding to college and university foundation courses. Students create a portfolio of work to demonstrate inquiry though art and design, process documentation, and written information about the work presented. In May, students submit portfolios for evaluation based on specific criteria, which include skillful synthesis of materials, processes, and ideas and sustained investigation through practice, experimentation, and revision, guided by questions. Students may choose to submit any or all of the AP Portfolio Exams.

The AP art and design program consists of three different courses and AP portfolio exams – AP 2-D Art and Design, AP 3-D Art and Design, and AP Drawing – corresponding to college and university foundations courses. Students create a portfolio of work to demonstrate inquiry through art and design, process documentation, and written information about the work presented. In May, students submit portfolios for evaluation based on specific criteria, which include skillful synthesis of materials, processes, and ideas and sustained investigation through practice, experimentation, and revision, guided by questions. Students may choose to submit any or all of the AP Portfolio Exams.

This course is intended for students with exceptionally high commitments to academic study. The history of art from before the Common Era (B.C.E.) to the present day is taught. Lecture, video, class discussion, museum work and multimedia study aids reinforce reading and writing assignments. Students examine the major forms of artistic expression (including architecture) of past and distant cultures, as well as those of our own time and environment. They learn to look at works of art critically, with intelligence and sensitivity, and to articulate and appreciate the art they experience. Students are expected to complete all reading assignments, keep a notebook, contribute to class discussions and complete all museum assignments and all written work.

The AP art and design program consists of three different courses and AP portfolio exams – AP 2-D Art and Design, AP 3-D Art and Design, and AP Drawing – corresponding to college and university foundations courses. Students create a portfolio of work to demonstrate inquiry through art and design, process documentation, and written information about the work presented. In May, students submit portfolios for evaluation based on specific criteria, which include skillful synthesis of materials, processes, and ideas and sustained investigation through practice, experimentation, and revision, guided by questions. Students may choose to submit any of all of the AP Portfolio Exams.

Students study two-dimensional, three-dimensional and graphic arts/multimedia visual arts. Students experiment with art techniques that emphasize creative expression and application of problem-solving skills to communicate ideas and emotions. Throughout all activities, instruction stresses art elements and principles of design. Students learn about the cultural context of art history and complete a project that integrates other fields of knowledge. Using appropriate art vocabulary and their own life experiences, students evaluate and analyze art, as well as explore art careers.

Specific two-dimensional, three-dimensional and graphic arts/multimedia courses are offered in the 8th grade. In addition to the media and techniques taught in each area, students learn how to critique art and study various artists throughout history. Aesthetics are emphasized as students develop their artistic awareness and new way of looking at ordinary things in life. Full-year art students engage in large-scale projects to create an aesthetic environment in the school. They learn about art careers and maintain both portfolios and sketchbooks.

This course is intended for students with a serious interest in art. Students develop design sensitivity and sophistication through a variety of art media. Creativity is encouraged with studies in two-dimensional and three-dimensional art, multi-media technology and design.

Designed as a foundation for those who intend to pursue art as a career or for cultural enrichment, this course emphasizes the fundamentals of drawing, sculpture and painting in a variety of media. Weekly homework assignments aid in acquisition and development of basic observational skills. Higher-order thinking skills such as analysis, problem solving and evaluation are emphasized. The course also incorporates the study of art history, criticism, aesthetics and additional enrichment experiences such as museum field experience, artists-in-residence and student workshops.

Art II emphasizes the elements and principles of design and their conscious application. Students learn techniques and processes in a variety of media, including painting, drawing, sculpture and printmaking. The course also incorporates the study of art history, criticism and aesthetics. Higher-order thinking skills, such as analysis, problem solving and evaluation, are emphasized throughout this course.

Art III offers four major areas of concentration: landscape, the human figure, still life and abstraction. Each area includes experience with a broad mix of media and focuses upon development of composition, creative and technical skills. Higher-order thinking skills, such as analysis, problem solving and evaluation are emphasized throughout the course.

Art IV is designed for the serious, motivated student who is considering entering an art program beyond high school or who desires further artistic growth. Each student develops a well-rounded portfolio suitable for college or employment review.

This course explores 3-D clay forms by creating both functional and decorative ceramic works of art. Students use various techniques in hand-building and wheel throwing. Students think creatively and critically to solve ceramic problems in unique ways. Each student will maintain a developmental workbook (sketchbook) of ideas and processes.

Complex problem-solving skills will be used in the construction of a variety of hand-built and wheel thrown projects. The in-depth focus will be on design, construction, and craftsmanship skills. Students will be required to keep a sketchbook along with a digital portfolio, which will record images and reflections of their created art works.

This third-level art course serves as an introduction to a broad range of commercial art applications, including graphics and animation, fabric, fashion and costume design, furniture, and interior and industrial design. Emphasis is placed upon the elements of art and principles of design, with students using both computer and hand-building techniques. Projects are undertaken with client presentations in mind and are accomplished both individually and in collaborative teams.

During the rotation period for 6th grade, students express ideas and create images in various media, using the principles of design. Students practice art techniques and develop art skills. Students also analyze, interpret and evaluate well-known works of art. The course also covers art history, including major art movements and the styles, materials, methods and subject matter of individual artists.