Art Department

The following art courses are the comprehensive foundation art courses.  All the foundation courses require drawing as a component of the course.

Course Title       Credit Length

Studio Interior Design/Architecture             1 40 Weeks

Studio in Art             1 40 Weeks

Studio in Media Art 1                   1 40 Weeks

Studio in Craft Art             1                 40 Weeks

The following 1/2 or 1 credit art courses may be taken after the completion or concurrent enrollment of the art/music requirement.  All art courses require drawing as a component of the class.  Please note that each class MAY require you to purchase some supplies needed for you to create your artwork.

Course Title Credit Length

Studio in Ceramics 1         .5 20 Weeks

Studio in Ceramics 2     .5 20 Weeks

Studio in Comic Illustration     .5 20 Weeks

Studio in Drawing 1             .5 20 Weeks

Studio in Drawing 2             .5 20 Weeks

Studio in Fashion Design  & Illustration     .5 20 Weeks

Studio in Media Arts 2   .5         20 Weeks

Studio in Painting 1     .5 20 Weeks

Studio in Painting 2     .5 20 Weeks

Studio in Photography 1     .5 20 Weeks

Studio in Photography 2     .5 20 Weeks

Studio in Sculpture     .5 20 Weeks

Studio in Printmaking     .5 20 Weeks

Studio in Digital Graphics     .5 20 Weeks

Studio in Jewelry     .5         20 Weeks

Film Production     .5 20 Weeks

Studio in Interior Design/Architecture 2           1                               40 Weeks  

Check out more! Link to HS Visual Arts Course Book 

STUDIO IN ART (AR01) 

Credit: 1 Length: 40 Weeks Grade:  9-12 Prerequisite:  None                          

Studio in Art is an introductory Fine Arts course that focuses on a variety of media and techniques.  In this class you will develop your creative thinking skills in order to create authentic meaningful art.  While this class will encompass many art styles and time periods there is a major focus on contemporary art and artists.  Upon successful completion of the course you will be well prepared for the many advanced art electives that FHS offers! THIS COURSE MAY BE USED FOR ART/AND OR MUSIC GRADUATION REQUIREMENT.

STUDIO IN MEDIA ART I (AR02)                   

Credit: 1 Length: 40 Weeks Grade:  9-12 Prerequisite:  None                          

Studio in Media Art I is an exciting introduction to the world of digital art, where you'll explore your creativity using tolls like Photoshop and Adobe Animate! Whether you're passionate about design, animation, or just curious to learn, this course will give you the skills to create your own digital masterpieces. Along the way, you'll also dive into Art History, Aesthetics, and Art Criticism, building a strong foundation in bother theory and practice. Plus, the skills you develop here will be valuable for a lifetime and can give your resume a serious boost! Best of all, this course counts toward your Art of Music graduation requirement, so why not join and unlock your creative potential? Start building your digital art portfolio! THIS COURSE MAY BE USED FOR ART/AND OR MUSIC GRADUATION REQUIREMENT.

STUDIO IN CRAFT ART (AR03)                           

Credit: 1 Length: 40 Weeks Grade:  9-12 Prerequisite:  None                          

Do you like making 3D art? This class is a workshop where you will explore making 3D art in a “studio” environment. We combine different materials, drawing, sculpting, and paper maché to create our own ideas. We explore different artists, materials, art making techniques and more! THIS COURSE MAY BE USED FOR ART/AND OR MUSIC GRADUATION REQUIREMENT.

STUDIO INTERIOR DESIGN/ARCHITECTURE 1 (FC04) 

Credit: 1 Length: 40 Weeks Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None                        

Embark on a creative journey in Interior Design and Architecture 1! This course invites you to explore your personal style and the art of transforming living spaces. Through engaging hands-on projects, you'll delve into design principles from various eras while also examining innovative contemporary trends. You'll experiment with a wide range of mediums - pencil, markers, paint, watercolor, clay, and fabric - allowing your imagination to flourish. With field trips to iconic architectural sites in Buffalo, you'll gain invaluable insights and inspiration. Join us to cultivate your unique design voice and meet your art and music graduation requirements! THIS COURSE MAY BE USED FOR ART/AND OR MUSIC GRADUATION REQUIREMENT.  

STUDIO INTERIOR DESIGN/ARCHITECTURE 2 (AR20) 

Credit: 1 Length: 40 Weeks Grade: 10-12 Prerequisite: Studio in Interior Design & Architecture I and teacher recommendation

Take your passion for design to the next level in Interior Design and Architecture 2! Building on the foundational skills from Level 1, this course dives deeper into advanced concepts and real-world architectural challenges. Develop a critical eye for design as you engage in complex projects that simulate professional scenarios, preparing you for careers in these exciting fields or as future homeowners. Enjoy unique experiences, such as becoming junior docents at the iconic Frank Lloyd Wright's Marin House, where you'll share your knowledge of design with others. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to visit local college design programs, gaining valuable insights into the pathways available for further education in the field. Through collaborative projects and expert mentorship, this course is your gateway to mastering the art of interior design and architecture! 

STUDIO IN CERAMICS 1 (AR04)                   

Credit: 1/2 Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  9-12 Prerequisite: ALL upper level ART courses must have completed or be taken simultaneously to a 1 full year of Studio Art 1, Media Art 1, Craft Art 1, Interior Design and Architecture.                          

Ceramics 1: Ceramics is a comprehensive foundation course in clay.  We explore techniques and methods of both traditional and contemporary artists.  This is a hands-on course that allows you to combine creativity and the ability to work with your hands.

STUDIO IN CERAMICS 2/3 (AR05)/ (AR24)              

Credit: 1/2 Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  9-12 Prerequisite: Ceramics 1                

Ceramics 2: This course is a continuation of the Ceramics 1.  As an advanced ceramics course, you will continue to develop your artistic skills through various hand-building techniques.  You will have the opportunity to use your own independent and creative ideas with more in depth projects.  There will be a focus on contemporary and historic ceramic methods.

STUDIO IN COMIC ILLUSTRATION (AR06)         

Credit: 1/2 Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  9-12 Prerequisite:   ALL upper level ART courses must have completed or be taken simultaneously to a 1 full year of Studio Art 1, Media Art 1, Craft Art 1, Interior Design and Architecture.                       

This course will cover the concept creation, character development, figure drawing, storyboarding and the comic layout process. Sequential art is the communication of a story through images.  The history of comics will focus on current comics and movie storyboards.  Students will compare and contrast the balance between traditional comic creation and today’s digital production.  The final will be a portfolio in the form of a comic.

STUDIO IN DRAWING 1 (AR07)                  

Credit: 1/2 Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  9-12 Prerequisite:  ALL upper level ART courses must have completed or be taken simultaneously to a 1 full year of Studio Art 1, Media Art 1, Craft Art 1, Interior Design and Architecture.              

Ever wanted to level up your drawing skills? Studio in Drawing I is your starting point for learning the techniques behind great art! In this hands-on course, you'll explore a variety of drawing styles and materials, giving you the tools to express your creativity like never before. 

Here's what you'll dive into:

• Master the basics of drawing by observing real-life objects and forms.

• Experiment with different media like charcoal, pencils, and ink to bring your ideas to life.

• Learn key composition techniques to create dynamic, eye-catching artwork

• Build a strong foundation that will help you in all areas of the visual arts, whether you're into painting, digital art, or sculpture.

By the end of the course, you'll have developed the essential skills needed to take on more advanced art projects, and you'll be ready to bring your artistic visions to life with confidence! Drawing 1 students are eligible for 3 credits through SUNY Erie

STUDIO IN DRAWING 2 / 3 (AR08) / (AR22)                

Credit: 1/2 Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  9-12 Prerequisite: Studio in Drawing 1

Drawing II will expand skills of drawing techniques & mediums. Emphasis on understanding  formal art language and fundamentals of artistic expression through art history.  Drawing from observation is geared towards realism; at the same time, various other drawing styles might be explored. Perspective, composition, figure/ground relationships, shading, tonal value, visual perception, spatial concepts, and critical thinking skills are all emphasized using. This course will act as a portfolio preparation class. Drawing II students are eligible for 3 credits through SUNY Erie

STUDIO IN FASHION DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION (AR09)   

Credit: 1/2 Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  9-12 Prerequisite: ALL upper level ART courses must have completed or be taken simultaneously to a 1 full year of Studio Art 1, Media Art 1, Craft Art 1, Interior Design and Architecture.

Create your own fashion line and discover how history has shaped the styles we wear today! In this course, you'll get hands-on experience drawing fashion figures (croquis), collaborating on fashion projects, and developing a stunning portfolio that showcases your unique designs. You'll also master the art of fabric draping and take your illustrations to the next level using Prismacolor markers and other exciting mediums. Whether you're dreaming of a career in fashion or just love creating bold new looks, this course will equip you with the skills to bring your ideas to life. Ready to turn your passion for fashion into reality? 

FILM PRODUCTION (AR25)                            

Credit: 1/2 Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  10-12 Prerequisite: ALL upper level ART courses must have completed or be taken simultaneously to a 1 full year of Studio Art 1, Media Art 1, Craft Art 1, Interior Design and Architecture.

This course will cover the introductory skills used in the film industry and social media.  We will begin with basic script and film production exercises.  These ideas will be communicated using storyboard techniques.  We will learn Windows Movie Maker and Adobe Premier to complete editing of footage.  The class will focus on lighting, editing, communication of concept and visual effects.       

STUDIO IN MEDIA ARTS 2 (AR12)               

Credit: 1/2 Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  10-12 Prerequisite: Studio in Media Arts 1

This course is an advanced application of the skills taught in Studio in Media Arts. We will create a digital portfolio of work based on you (the student). The projects are based on you and your career interests. We will also cover animation software to build Motion Media.  The final portfolio can be used to apply for college or a career.

STUDIO IN PAINTING 1 (AR13)                    

Credit: 1/2   Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  9-12 Prerequisite:   ALL upper level ART courses must have completed or be taken simultaneously to a 1 full year of Studio Art 1, Media Art 1, Craft Art 1, Interior Design and Architecture.                      

This course will explore a range of historical painting techniques.  We will learn the various mediums of painting such as acrylic, watercolor and oil.  We will cover the major subject areas such as portraiture, landscapes and Still-lives.  The final consists of a painting based on the elements and principles of art. Painting 1 students are eligible for 3 credits through SUNY Erie

STUDIO IN PAINTING 2/3 (AR14) / (AR23)                  

Credit: 1/2   Length: 20 Weeks Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: Studio in Painting I  

Unlock the secrets of historical painting techniques and explore the world of color like never before! In this course, you'll dive into a delicate flow of watercolors and the bold strokes of acrylic paint. You'll bring subjects like still life and landscapes to life while practicing essential techniques and color theory to elevate your art. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this class will guide you on a creative journey through the history and craft of painting. Ready to paint your own masterpiece? Painting 2 students are eligible for 3 credits through SUNY Erie 

STUDIO IN PHOTOGRAPHY 1 (AR15)            

Credit: 1/2   Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  11-12 Prerequisite:  ALL upper level ART courses must have completed or be taken simultaneously to a 1 full year of Studio Art 1, Media Art 1, Craft Art 1, Interior Design and Architecture.                       

This introductory course focuses on the basics of photography.  Students will learn how to use a 35 mm cameras, develop black and white film and make enlargements. We will learn various digital applications of photography and apply them to visual compositions.  The digital portion of the class will use various apps (iPhone and Android).  The final exam consists of a written and final photograph.

STUDIO IN PHOTOGRAPHY 2 (AR16)            

Credit: 1/2   Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  11-12 Prerequisite: Studio in Photography 1

This course continues with the use of the 35mm SLR camera.  The settings, light mete and formats will be covered in this portion of the class.  In this class we learn advanced application of the photography skills that have been established.  Digitally we will begin to edit phots for quality.  The class will focus on photography as a career.  The final exam consists of a written and a final photograph.

STUDIO IN SCULPTURE (AR17)                          

Credit: 1/2   Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  9-12 Prerequisite:  ALL upper level ART courses must have completed or be taken simultaneously to a 1 full year of Studio Art 1, Media Art 1, Craft Art 1, Interior Design and Architecture.                        

Do you like to make sculptures and work three dimensionally?  In Sculpture you will have the opportunity to work with various materials like wood, metal and clay.  This class allows students to explore working on large projects with advanced methods and techniques.

STUDIO IN PRINTMAKING (AR18)                      

Credit: 1/2   Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  9-12 Prerequisite:  ALL upper level ART courses must have completed or be taken simultaneously to a 1 full year of Studio Art 1, Media Art 1, Craft Art 1, Interior Design and Architecture.                        

This course focuses on contemporary art and product design.  We will cover stencil creation, merchandise design, and poster design.  From the street to the gallery we will study current artists and how they communicate in our modern world.  The final will be based on a collective portfolio of their class work.

STUDIO IN DIGITAL GRAPHICS (AR19)             

Credit: 1/2   Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  9-12 Prerequisite: ALL upper level ART courses must have completed or be taken simultaneously to a 1 full year of Studio Art 1, Media Art 1, Craft Art 1, Interior Design and Architecture. 

This course focuses on the advertising world of art. Create movie posters, social media banners and thumbnails, and layouts for popular magazines.  The course focuses on the use of Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign and the advertising world around us. The final exam consists of a portfolio review.

STUDIO IN JEWELRY (AR11 )                               

Credit: 1/2   Length: 20 Weeks Grade:  9-12 Prerequisite:  ALL upper level ART courses must have completed or be taken simultaneously to a 1 full year of Studio Art 1, Media Art 1, Craft Art 1, Interior Design and Architecture.                         

Create your own wearable art in this hands-on 3D jewelry design course! You'll have the chance to craft original pieces using materials like fiber, leather, glass beads, and metals, while learning exciting techniques like enameling and soldering. Not only will you develop your fine motor skills, but you'll also get to express your creativity and personal style in each unique project. Throughout the course, you'll complete sketch assignments to bring your designs to life, and by the end, you'll have a stunning portfolio of your very own jewelry creations. If you're ready to make beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces, this course is perfect for you to start designing your own accessories!