Art

Drawing I

Open to: All

Prerequisite: None

Duration/Credit: 1 semester / ½ credit

Level: Standard

In this foundational class students will learn the basics of drawing.   The course begins with lessons from Betty Edwards “Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain" where students will understand that drawing is all about learning to see. From there students will explore the Elements of Art and Principles of Design through experimentation, skill builders and choice artwork with a variety of drawing media. They will learn to create and apply value to forms, understand proportion, and practice single-point perspective. This course is the prerequisite for other drawing courses and painting. 

Drawing II

Open to: All

Prerequisite: Drawing I with a minimum of a 70

Duration/Credit: 1 semester / ½ credit

Level: Standard

This course will expand on the concepts covered in Drawing I. Students will continue to hone their skills and move on to more complicated subjects. Still life, animals, portraiture, gesture and figure drawing will be topics covered. 

Painting I

Open to: All

Prerequisite:  Drawing I with a minimum of a 70

Duration/Credit: 1 semester / ½ credit

Level: Standard

Painting I students will expand on their drawing skills, learn color theory and the basics of paint application, color mixing, and techniques specific to watercolor and acrylic. The majority of work in this course will be applied through still life and landscape, though there will be opportunities for student choice as well. Students in this course must be able to maintain a high level of productivity and motivation.  

Painting II

Open to: Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors

Prerequisite:  Painting I

Duration/Credit: 1 semester / ½ credit

Level: Standard

This course continues the application of explorations and techniques in watercolor and acrylic paint from Painting I. Most assignments will be presented with a theme through which students can personalize their work with their interests. Students will also have the option of  experimenting with gouache and ink. This course will help students build a portfolio needed to attend art/design school. 

Ceramics I

Open to: All

Prerequisite: None

Duration/Credit: 1 semester / ½ credit

Level: Standard

Ceramics I teaches the basics of handbuilding with clay: pinch pots, coil pottery, use of molds, slab construction and sculptural techniques will be applied. Students will have the opportunity to personalize their learning through design of individual projects in each technique. Students will also learn about the firing process and the kiln, as well as glazing practices.  Studio and clay maintenance is part of the process and therefore part of the requirements when participating in this course. 

Ceramics II

Open to: All

Prerequisite: Ceramics I

Duration/Credit: 1 semester / ½ credit

Level: Standard

Ceramics II will build on previous skills and provide more complex project opportunities, surface decoration and glazing experimentation.  Studio management and clay reclaim will be part of the experience. Wheel-throwing will also be demonstrated and practiced, if desired. 

Studio Arts *New 2026-2027!

Open to: All

Prerequisite: None

Duration/Credit: 1 semester / ½ credit

Level: Standard

In this class, students will have the opportunity to experience a wide variety of both 2D and 3D art forms and media. Students will complete brief skill builders in media such as collage, paper/cardboard sculpture, fiber arts, ceramics, printmaking, mixed media and more. Drawing and painting skills will also be interwoven within these skill builders. Students will then have the opportunity to design independent, personalized projects in their selected media. This course gives opportunity for creative problem solving and effective communication as students learn to express their voice with a wide range of materials. 

Sculpture I *New 2026-2027!

Open to: All

Prerequisite: None

Duration/Credit: 1 semester / ½ credit

Level: Standard

Sculpture I is a hands-on, introductory visual arts course focused on three-dimensional art-making processes. Students will explore the elements and principles of design as they apply to sculpture, working with a variety of materials including, wire, paper, cardboard, wood, and found objects. Through individual and collaborative projects, students will learn basic sculptural techniques such as additive, subtractive, assemblage, and modeling. Emphasis will be placed on creativity, craftsmanship, problem-solving, and self-expression. 

Honors Advanced Art

Open to: Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors

Prerequisite: Drawing I & II OR Painting I & II OR Ceramics I & II, Teacher Recommendation

Duration/Credit: 1 semester / ½ credit

Level: Honors

This is for students who have successfully completed Levels I and II in Drawing, Painting or Ceramics and wish to further their skill and practice. Advanced Art is an extensive course that focuses on developing a portfolio for admission to art school. Students who have mastered the basic skills will further develop their voice and style to express skill and creativity. Students will receive guidance and support while developing their portfolios. 

Jewelry & Metals

Open to: Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors

Prerequisite: Drawing I OR Ceramics I OR Studio Arts OR Sculpture 

Duration/Credit: 1 semester / ½ credit

Level: Standard

Students will be introduced to the basic techniques and safety requirements of metalsmithing and jewelry making. Projects will include the following practices and techniques, as time allows: 3D design, wire wrapping, beading, sawing and piercing, stamping, texturing, rivets, soldering, bezel setting, sanding, and polishing. These skills will be demonstrated through personalized projects of student’s design.