This course is an introduction to art theory and application in the areas of drawing, conceptual design, painting and color theory. This course emphasizes the necessary skills to provide students with a perceptual base leading to understanding artistic perception, creative expression, historical and cultural context. The art elements and principles of design serve as a foundation for each unit covered. Assignments are created to meet the content strands of the Visual Art Standards, with projects that focus on the four artistic processes of visual arts (creating, presenting, responding, and connecting.) Selected historical or cultural contexts will be applied with attention to analysis, interpretation, and judgment of student work as well as appreciation of art works from other cultures and times. This course is a-g approved.