Drawing 1 introduces students to fundamental materials, techniques, and processes for translating personal ideas onto paper. Emphasis is placed on developing foundational drawing skills, critical thinking, problem-solving, and visual expression. Students will explore various mediums, including graphite, colored pencils, pastels, ink, and markers while learning techniques such as shading, layering, and composition.

 
**Option for Honors Credit**

Prerequisite: None
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semester
Credit: 0.5 (Elective)
Fee: This course has a fee (please see our Course Fees page for specifics)

Drawing 2 builds on the skills developed in Drawing I, encouraging students to experiment with more advanced techniques and work on both traditional and nontraditional surfaces. The course focuses on fostering critical and creative thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication through art while challenging students to push the boundaries of their creativity. Projects incorporate mediums such as graphite, colored pencils, scratchboard, pen, chalk, and pastels, allowing students to broaden their artistic range and refine their personal style.  

**Option for Honors Credit**

Prerequisite: Drawing 1 recommended; not required
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semester
Credit: 0.5 (Elective)
Fee: This course has a fee (please see our Course Fees page for specifics)

Students in this course will be introduced to acrylic and watercolor paints.  Color theory, color mixing and brushwork techniques/styles will be emphasized.  Subjects highlighted include still life, abstract concepts, nature or landscape, etc.

**Option for Honors Credit**

Prerequisite: None
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semester
Credit: 0.5 (Elective)
Fee: This course has a fee (please see our Course Fees page for specifics)

This class presents a more in-depth study of watercolor and acrylic painting styles. Mixed media and other new techniques including historical movements/styles will be explored.   

**Option for Honors Credit**

Prerequisite: Painting 1 recommended; not required
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semester
Credit: 0.5 (Elective)
Fee: This course has a fee (please see our Course Fees page for specifics)

Sculpture 1 introduces students to the foundational elements, materials, and techniques of additive and subtractive sculpture. Through problem-solving and creative exploration, students will transform their initial ideas into fully realized sculptural forms. Students will work with a variety of materials, including clay, plaster, papier-mâché, cardboard, wire, and other mixed media. This hands-on experience makes the course ideal for those eager to experiment with multiple mediums and techniques while developing their artistic voice.

**Option for Honors Credit**

Prerequisite: None
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semester
Credit: 0.5 (Elective)
Fee: This course has a fee (please see our Course Fees page for specifics)

Sculpture II builds upon the concepts introduced in Sculpture I, to create a diverse body of work, focusing on the relationship between concept, form, and the design process. Projects include both functional and nonfunctional three-dimensional forms, allowing for personal expression and innovation. Students will work with a variety of materials, including clay, plaster, papier-mâché, cardboard, wire, and other mixed media. This hands-on experience makes the course ideal for those eager to experiment with multiple mediums and techniques while developing their artistic voice.

**Option for Honors Credit**

Prerequisite: Sculpture 1 recommended; not required
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semester
Credit: 0.5 (Elective)
Fee: This course has a fee (please see our Course Fees page for specifics)

Ceramics I: Introduction to Handbuilding Techniques

This foundational course introduces students to the basics of working with clay, focusing on hand-building techniques for both functional and sculptural pieces. Students will learn essential methods such as pinch pots, coil construction, and slab building. Emphasis will be placed on developing strong craftsmanship and understanding the properties of clay. In addition to hands-on projects, the course will explore basic glazing and decoration techniques, allowing students to complete their pieces with creativity and care.

**Option for Honors Credit**

Prerequisite: None
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semester
Credit: 0.5 (Elective)
Fee: This course has a fee (please see our Course Fees page for specifics)

Ceramics II: Intermediate Handbuilding & Design Exploration

Building on the skills learned in Ceramics I, this course will continue to explore hand-building techniques and design concepts. Students will refine their ability to construct more complex functional pieces, as well as sculptural works that explore form and texture. Focus will be placed on personal design exploration, allowing students to develop their own creative voice while enhancing their technical abilities. The course will expand on glazing techniques, introducing more advanced decoration methods and helping students create more intricate, finished pieces.

**Option for Honors Credit**

Prerequisite: Ceramics 1 recommended; not required
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semester
Credit: 0.5 (Elective)
Fee: This course has a fee (please see our Course Fees page for specifics)

Ceramics III: Advanced Handbuilding & Personal Artistic Development

Ceramics III offers students an opportunity to further build on their hand-building skills while pushing the boundaries of both functional and sculptural clay work. This course emphasizes advanced techniques in construction, such as large-scale handbuilt sculptures, multi-part functional works, and experimental forms. Students will be encouraged to take creative risks, refine their personal style, and explore more conceptual approaches to clay as a medium. A significant focus of the course is on individual artistic development, with each student working on a body of work that reflects their unique vision.

**Option for Honors Credit**

Prerequisite: Ceramics 2 recommended; not required
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Semester
Credit: 0.5 (Elective)
Fee: This course has a fee (please see our Course Fees page for specifics)

Students in this course are required to submit a portfolio to the AP College Board for evaluation to earn AP Credit.  It is a fast-paced challenging course intended for highly motivated and dedicated students pursuing a career in visual art and design who are willing to devote considerable time and effort to the study of art while developing higher level skills.  A MINIMUM OF 15 works will be completed for the College Board Portfolio exam.  Experimentation, process, material usage, inquiry and advanced skill will be the focus of the 15 works.  Students should prepare for this class by taking as many drawing and painting electives as possible.

Summer assignments are required

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation or Portfolio Submission
Grade Level: 11, 12
Full Year
Credit: 1.00 (Fine Arts)
Fee: This course has a fee (please see our Course Fees page for specifics)

2D Portfolio is for the art student who is ready for the next level of drawing, painting, or any 2D media after taking the first and second levels. Students in this class will work with the teacher to help design this course. Students will be encouraged to produce an elevated level of work in a variety of media in preparation for college portfolio submissions or AP Drawing or just to continue to build their individual skills in their medium of choice. 

**Option for Honors Credit**

This course may be taken multiple times

Prerequisite: Any two art electives and teacher recommendation
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Semester
Credit: 0.5 (Fine Arts)
Fee: This course has a fee (please see our Course Fees page for specifics)

3D Portfolio is for the art student who is ready for the next level of sculpture or ceramics after taking the first and second levels. Students in this class will work with the teacher to help design this course. Students will be encouraged to produce an elevated level of work in a variety of media in preparation for college portfolio submissions or just to continue to build their individual skills in their medium of choice. 

**Option for Honors Credit**

This course may be taken multiple times

Prerequisite: Any two art electives and teacher recommendation
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Semester
Credit: 0.5 (Fine Arts)
Fee: This course has a fee (please see our Course Fees page for specifics)