Visual Arts
Visual Arts
Students in grades 6-8 Visual Arts classes create artwork in our hands-on studio art program while engaging in a variety of art-making experiences through drawing, painting, mixed media, ceramics, and sculpture materials. Our curriculum aligns with the Massachusetts Visual Arts standards and nurtures creative thinking, self-expression, and artistic intent as key components for growth in the visual arts. Students find that our art studios are all inclusive learning spaces where every student can find individual success while learning to work collaboratively with their peers.
Grade 6
Grade 6 students are introduced to a variety of materials including clay, oil pastels, paint, recycled materials, and paper mache as they explore 2D and 3D art. They expand and improve their imaginative and observational drawing skills while they develop their compositions using creative thinking strategies and personalized imagery. Students learn to work cooperatively in the art studio as they develop their personal strengths.
Grade 7
Grade 7 students build upon their previous art experience as they explore themes of earth science, architecture, interior design, and historical time periods from around the world. Self-portraiture is explored through drawing, painting, and paper mache, and provides students with an opportunity to practice drawing from observation. An understanding of color theory is explored in 2D and 3D projects that include color mixing, pattern design, and geometric shapes. Students continue to work individually and collaboratively with peers to support everyone's learning in the art studio.
Grade 8
Grade 8 students use more complex art-making processes and skills as they work with more autonomy to develop their artwork. Students build on their observational drawing and composition skills while exploring perspective and depth in their 2D and 3D artwork. Methods of relief sculpture are explored in thematic units which include Greek mythology, literature, and enchanted spaces. Eighth graders further explore Art History’s role in recording ancient communities and its influence on contemporary art and society. Experiences in our Grade 8 art classes provide the foundation for learning in the art electives at the high school.
iDesign
Grade 8 students explore the concept of visual communication in iDesign. They learn basic graphic design and image editing skills, basic video editing, and how to creatively design informational visuals and strong, aesthetic compositions. Creative thinking and self-expression are driving forces in this class. Students work both individually and in small groups to complete their assignments.