The mission of the Farmington High School Fine and Applied Arts Department is to prepare students to become creative and innovative thinkers, confident in creating unique personal art and design in highly competitive real-world applications, with an awareness of contemporary visual culture and media, and a deep appreciation of contemporary, historical, and global art and design.

To support this mission, the department provides a rigorous and relevant curriculum that prepares students for the contemporary challenges and opportunities of post-secondary fine art programs, and the real-world design applications found in careers in the applied arts.

Art & Technology Career Clusters

Art Director

Develop design concepts for media pieces and oversees the entire creation and production process. Leadership skills combined with your passion are an exciting career path.

Advertising Design
Interior Design

Industrial Design

Business of Art

Museum Curator

Gallery Manager

Marketing Analyst

Digital Designers

Create images for film, video, and other forms of electronic media. Technically proficient designers are in demand in every sector of the economy.

Digital Films

Multimedia Designer

Product Designer

Game Design

Broadcast Design

Motion Graphics

Applied Arts

Develop application of design to objects of function and everyday use. They incorporate creative ideas to objects of utility such as a cabinet, vehicle, building, or park bench.

Architect

Vehicle Design

Technician

Engineer

Furniture Design

Product Designer

Stage Designer

Fine Arts

Create items such as painting, sculpture, and illustration that are often displayed in museums and galleries.

Exhibiting Artist

Illustrator

Graphic Design

Photographer

Fashion Design

Art & Technology Content Area Standards

Standard #1 - Creating:

Plan: Students generate original artistic ideas and work.
Investigate: Students organize and develop artistic ideas and work.
Reflect: Students revise, refine, and complete artwork.
ISTE: Students exhibit a tolerance for ambiguity, perseverance, and the capacity to work with open-ended problems.
ISTE: Students select and use digital tools to plan and manage a design process.

Standard #2 - Presenting:

Select: Students analyze, select, and critique personal artwork for a collection or portfolio presentation.
Analyze: Students evaluate, select, and apply methods or processes appropriate to display artwork in a specific place.
Share: Students convey meaning through the presentation of artwork.
ELA: Students demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English usage when writing or speaking.

Standard #3-Responding:

Perceive: Students perceive and analyze artistic work.
Analyze: Students look for intent and meaning in artistic work.
Interpret: Students apply criteria to evaluate artistic work.
ELA: Students draw evidence from text/information to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Standard #4-Connecting:

Synthesize: Students synthesize and relate knowledge and personal experiences to make art.
Relate: Students relate artistic ideas and works with societal, cultural and historical context to deepen understanding.
ISTE: Students contribute constructively to project teams, assuming various roles and effectively working toward a common goal.
Relate/ELA: Students evaluate one another’s premises, claims, and evidence with societal, cultural, and historical context to deepen understanding.

Art and Technology Chart 26-27

2026-2027 Corrected Sequence of Study.docx

Course Descriptions

3D Design

Half-year course College Prep ½ credit Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

3D Design is a semester long course where students build creative projects from a variety of material. Students will consider both the look (aesthetics) and function of the work they create. Each material has limitations and each project has requirements, but the student decides what their work will become. The principles of design and the elements of art are applied along with construction techniques and engineering considerations which promote critical thinking and creativity. This is a STEM or Humanities or Fine Art course.

Advanced Digital Design Honors

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Digital Design I

Advanced Digital Design is a year-long course that challenges students to explore emerging digital technologies in the creation of student centered projects. Students receive advanced instruction and experience in digital video, sound manipulation, web design, podcasting, and cutting-edge digital media. Students must be self-directed, motivated, and have foundational skills in a variety of software to realizing their projects-based learning. Students will develop technological skills and dispositions applicable to both art and technological fields, explore, in-depth and in a variety of ways, the influence of art on technology and technology on art as they develop a sense of technological media and its possibilities. Arts Through Technology is an advanced level course in the New Media sequence that is a good precursor to AP Portfolio. This is a STEM or Humanities or Fine Art course.

Advanced Drawing & Painting Honors

Half-year course Honors ½ credit Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: 1 credit in Art

Advanced Drawing & Painting is a semester long course intended to follow ART 1. Students will continue to improve their drawing and painting abilities. Everyone can improve their existing drawing abilities and in this course a student will see improvement. In addition to learning some more advanced drawing techniques, students will develop their design abilities through different illustration projects. Using water based media, students will learn new methods of manipulating the elements and principles of design to communicate their ideas. In order to improve visual literacy, students will also learn and study different aspects of culture and how artists and designers have and continue to shape our perception. This course is meant to be paired with Advanced Studio for students who want to take a full year of art. This is a Humanities or Fine Art course.

Advanced Placement Portfolio

Full-year course Advanced Placement 1 credit Grades 11, 12

Prerequisites: 1.5 credits in Art

Advanced Placement (AP) Portfolio is a College Board assessed class primarily for Juniors and Seniors. AP Portfolio requires students to produce 15 works of art that follow a theme based on the student’s personal inquiry. The College Board requires students to also write about the concepts expressed in their work as well as the process they followed to make the work. This class requires a substantial amount of time outside of class to complete the work. Depending on the student’s choice of media, they may have to provide their own supplies. This is not a class for students who want to prepare a portfolio for college admission to an arts program; rather it demonstrates rigorous coursework that will improve admission to any field of study. Students should have a foundation of skills with their choice of media, but this class is not exclusively for “talented” artists. Please see the College Board’s website for additional information. This is a Humanities or Fine Art course.

Art Portfolio Honors (ECE)

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite: 1 credit in Art or teacher recommendation

Art Portfolio Honors (ECE) is for experienced and committed art students who enjoy drawing, painting, printmaking, and individual expression. Art completed in this class fulfills many of the college application requirements for portfolios and should be taken Junior year. All types of college art programs, including digital art and architecture, require examples of observational drawing, original works, and varied media like painting, printmaking, and collage. This is a class with high expectations that build on a student's ability to communicate the elements and principles of design. The assignments are usually two-dimensional with a focus on college level art instruction in a variety of media. Students should expect to spend time outside of class completing projects. At the end of this course, students will have a competitive portfolio for college applications and a head-start on AP Portfolio.

Students who are enrolled in Art Portfolio Honors may elect to concurrently enroll in UConn's Early College Experience (ECE) course, ART 1030:Drawing I, for a fee. Dual enrollment allows FHS students to earn high school and UCONN’s ECE college credit simultaneously. The UCONN Drawing I course is a foundational drawing course based on observation. This is a Humanities or Fine Art course.

Advanced Studio Art Honors

Half-year course Honors ½ credit Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: 1 credit in Art

Advanced Studio Art Honors is a semester long foundation course for students who have taken Art 1 and want to pursue traditional art forms besides drawing and painting. Students will work on sculptures, graphic design, digital art, and mixed media. The focus of this course is an exploration of different techniques for students who enjoy the arts or committed artists who want to progress to Art Portfolio H and then AP Portfolio. This course is also meant to be paired with Advanced Drawing and Painting for students who want to take a full year of art. Regardless of a student’s perceived level of artistic ability, they will find success. This is a Humanities or Fine Art course.

Architectural Design Honors

Half-year course Honors 1/2 credit Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: .5 credit in Art

Architectural Design is a project-based course for students who have an interest in architecture, or who are interested in pursuing a career in Architecture, Urban Planning, Architectural Engineering, or other design field. This course provides students with the basic principles of architectural design. Projects will focus on the key principles of architectural design: geometry, structure, and function. The course will cover the history and development of architecture, an introduction to the design process, the basic techniques and procedures used in preparing architectural drawings, and an overview of architecture as a career. This course introduces fundamental print reading, sketching, digital drafting techniques, and architectural design theory. This is a STEM or Humanities or Fine Art course.

Art I

Full-year course College Prep 1 credit Grades 9, 10, 11

Art I is a year-long foundation course for students who are interested in improving their ability to draw from observation more accurately. ANYONE can learn how to draw and in this course a student will see their ability improve. In addition to learning drawing techniques, students will develop their design abilities through different painting projects. Using water based paints, students will learn how to manipulate color and symbols to communicate their ideas. In order to improve visual literacy, students will also learn and study different aspects of culture and how artists and designers have, and continue to shape our perception. This is a Humanities or Fine Art course.

ASPIRE – Art Installation

Half-year course ½ credit Grades 11, 12

Do you see art in everyday objects? Do ecology and conservation matter to you? If so, enroll in the Installation Art ASPIRE! In this half-year course, students will collaboratively build a large temporary sculpture for display in a public space. Working together, students in this course will collect and re-purpose materials, such as paper, cardboard, egg cartons, etc. to create an Installation sculpture. Installation art is a type of art where three-dimensional art is created and utilized to transform a space. Students in the Installation Art ASPIRE will engage in an interdisciplinary study of art and science to investigate, design, and create an eco-friendly installation with the purpose of educating the community on the awareness of waste. The class’s installation will be installed in a public venue to share with the community. The course will culminate with each student engaging in a VOG Exhibition of Learning. No artistic ability is required and anyone can participate.

ASPIRE – Fashion Design

Half-year course ½ credit 1 semester Grade 11, 12

Prerequisite: Fashion Design 1 & 2 (sewing machine and basic design skills)

In this interdisciplinary ASPIRE course, students will engage in inquiry that takes a fashion idea from illustration to creation. Students will explore about the history of fashion, different fabrics, and dying methodologies, along with mastering technology tools such as Photoshop and Illustrator to support the design process. Students will learn sewing and fabrication manipulation techniques in order to create an original finished garment, which will be shown at the Art Department's Annual Fashion Show. Additionally, the product of this course will be showcased as part of each student’s VOGC Exhibition of Learning.

Capstone – Construction Honors

Full-year course 1 credit Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite: Construction I or teacher recommendation

Are you interested in cultivating your woodworking or construction skills to create an original design? This course is designed as an extension of the Construction I course. Students will engage in an inquiry-based, maker-experience. In this course, students will master contemporary techniques and machining and use various materials to create a functional item to fulfill a need in the community. Prior examples include a park bench and a sculptural bike rack. This product will be showcased as part of each student’s VOGC Exhibition of Learning.

Ceramics I

Half-year course College Prep ½ credit Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Ceramics is a semester long introductory course to working with clay using basic hand building and decorative techniques. Students are challenged to develop their own ideas through the mastery of different ceramic skills. All students are capable of making projects that they will be proud of as they develop their divergent thinking skills and understanding of craftsmanship. This is a Humanities or Fine Art course.

Ceramics II Honors

Half-year course Honors ½ credit Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Ceramics I

Advanced Ceramics is a semester long course that builds on the skills developed in ceramics with an emphasis on wheel throwing and advanced sculptural techniques. Students will develop both functional and decorative clay projects in addition to new firing and decorative techniques not offered in the foundation course. This is a Humanities or Fine Art course.

Connected in Art

Half-year course College Prep ½ credit Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Connected in Art offers a unique, collaborative, and inclusive experience for all students seeking to develop leadership skills by connecting with and supporting peers across a spectrum of abilities. Using a foundational art curriculum, this course fosters a fun, supportive, and engaging environment where students can develop their creative voices. Students will explore a variety of artistic media and techniques including drawing, painting, collage, ceramics, and sculpture. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of teamwork, communication, and mutual growth. Through shared art projects and co-creative processes, students will build new friendships while cultivating a greater understanding of oneself. This is a Humanities and Fine Art course.

Introduction to C.O.R.E. (Comprehensive Real-World Experiences)

Full-year course College Prep 1 credit Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

In this introductory course, students will explore the four major areas of technology: construction, communications, transportation, and manufacturing, through a series of projects and activities. Some of these activities include: orthographic (multi-view) drawings, building vehicles, use of energy, catapults, aerodynamics, hot air balloons, CADD (Computer Assisted Drafting and Design), fabrication using brazing, welding, cutting, small gas engines, bridge building, residential construction, solid fuel rockets and more. These activities will explore important concepts and techniques, and prepare students for future vocational and recreational pursuits. This is a STEM or Fine Art course.

Construction Industries I Honors

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grades 10, 11, 12

This course is designed to familiarize students with current construction designs and advanced technological materials used in the world of construction in both residential and commercial buildings. Practical application of these principles will be done with construction of various storage sheds and garages as well as the set for the FHS play and musical. Skills and concepts taught include: safe and proper use of construction equipment, blueprint reading, and construction layout from the architects’ communication network known as CADD (Computer Assisted Drafting and Design), cabinetmaking, and interior trim fundamentals. This is a STEM course.

Construction Industries II Honors

Full-year course College Prep ½ credit Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite: Construction I or teacher recommendation

This course is designed as the second course in the woodworking series of course offerings. Cabinet construction, millwork, material and machining practices will be covered during the year. Students will design and construct furniture during the course. Students are expected to gain mastery over contemporary techniques and practices in cabinet and furniture making. This is a STEM course.

Crafts

Half-year course College Prep ½ credit Grades 9, 10 11, 12

Crafts is a semester-long course that explores a variety of craft materials (glass, metal, wood, fiber, and clay), design considerations, and reflective processes. Emphasis is on developing artistic thinking skills and techniques, as well as appreciation and understanding of contemporary, historic, and cultural influences. This is a Humanities or Fine Art course.

Culinary Arts I

Half-year course College Prep .5 credit Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Culinary I is a half-year introductory course designed for students with an interest in food service. Culinary and management skills will be taught through the lens of the Vision of the Global Citizen. Emphasis is placed on recipe conversion, measurement, terminology, knife skills, and safe food/equipment handling. Students can achieve a ServSafe Certification through this course. This is a STEM or Humanities or Fine Art course.

Culinary Arts II

Half-year course College Prep .5 credit Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Culinary Arts I

Students will engage with more complex culinary skills, including how to create recipes, plan menus, and serve a wide variety of foods. Students will learn about how ingredients are produced, food costs, ordering ingredients, customer service, and kitchen management. Participation in various school events will provide work experience in the kitchen and dining area. This is a STEM or Humanities or Fine Art course.

Digital Design

Half-year course College Prep ½ credit Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Digital Design is a semester-long course that introduces students to the skills and tools necessary to create digital artwork. Images are an increasingly important means of communication in our society. In Digital Design, students learn the art and design skills necessary to communicate their ideas visually. Students learn image-editing techniques, presentation design, and web design using professional software programs. Students will apply these skills and techniques to create original artwork, design effective presentations, and produce creative content for the web. Digital Design is an introductory course in the Art Department’s Digital Art sequence. This is a STEM or Humanities or Fine Art course.

Photography

Full-year course College Prep 1 credit Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Photography is a full-year long course that introduces students to the fundamentals of digitally produced and edited photography. Students learn the technical and aesthetic skills necessary to create successful photos, such as composition, exposure, and lighting. Students also learn to use their camera as a creative tool, and to understand why “Auto” mode isn’t always the best option for creative photography. After taking their photos, students learn to edit and manipulate their work using Adobe Photoshop, a software program used by many professionals in creative fields such as advertising, design, and, photography. Photography is an introductory level course in the Art Department's Digital Art sequence. This is a STEM or Humanities or Fine Art course.

Fashion Design I

Half-year course College Prep ½ credit Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Fashion Design I is a one-semester studio course. Students will explore the history of fashion, elements and principles of design, fashion illustration, and various steps involved in the production of a garment. Assignments will introduce the students to design processes of inspiration board compiling, color theory, design innovation, and the 2D-to-3D development of creative ideas. This is a Humanities or Fine Art course.

Fashion Design II

Half-year course College Prep ½ credit Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Fashion Design II is a studio course for students who are interested in further developing skills learned in Fashion Design I class. Students will use Photoshop and Illustrator to enhance their fashion illustration skills and students will engage more complex sewing and fabric manipulation techniques. This course affords students the opportunity to learn more about fashion history, fabrics, and different fabric dyeing methods. This is a Humanities or Fine Art course.

Foundations of Automotive Technology Honors

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grades 10, 11, 12

In this full-year course, students will explore the main areas of transportation through a series of projects and activities. These activities include safety and tools, propulsion and mouse-trap cars, hydraulics and pneumatics through robotic arms, automotive repair and diagnosis, including lubrication, engine performance, brakes, steering and suspension, ignition and electrical, tire repair, and maintenance, mechanical systems, using energy in transportation, welding and fabrication, small gas engine diagnosis and repair. In the lab, students will work online with CDX software. This is a STEM course.

Game Design Honors

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Digital Design I, Video & Media Production, or a computer science class

Game Design is a full-year course. Students will capitalize on their design sensibilities and creativity to formulate backend structure and present it to an audience or user. Students will learn user interface and user display properties as well as how image and design decisions can carry engineered mechanics and code design. Students will address human connection as well as ways to organize their thoughts and design process. This is a STEM or Humanities or Fine Art course.

Jewelry Design

Half-year course College Prep 0.5 credits Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Jewelry Design is a one semester Fine Arts course in the design and construction of personal adornment. This course introduces students to the foundations of metalsmithing, including piercing, sawing, forming, soldering, filing, and finishing jewelry. Students will learn and practice the studio skills necessary to create their jewelry designs using a variety of materials. Emphasis will be placed on developing craftsmanship and creativity, as well as on the safe handling of tools and materials.

This is a Humanities or a Fine Arts course.

Stagecraft

Full-year course College Prep 1 credit Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Stagecraft is a class for students who enjoy the design, construction, and painting of sets. Students will have the opportunity to work on the Fall and Spring FHS Drama productions during the school day. In addition to foundational construction and painting skills, students will design and manufacture props for the plays and learn about lighting and sound design. There are no prerequisites, but experience in construction and art are a plus. This is a STEM or Humanities or Fine Art course.

Video & Media Production

Half-year course College Prep ½ credit Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Ready to stop just watching videos and start making them? In Video & Media Production, you’ll use hands-on cameras, microphones, lighting equipment, and editing software to transform your ideas into polished shareable videos. Learn techniques for great composition, smooth camera movements, clear audio, and clean transitions. Discover the art of video storytelling through media like short form videos, podcasts, videocasts, short films, and music videos. By the end of the semester, you’ll have a collection of projects showcasing your skills, perfect for college or job applications, sharing with friends, or posting on social media. Whether you dream of being a director, a YouTuber, or just want to make better TikToks, this class will give you the creative tools to make your vision a reality.

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