aRT

The NH Art program 9-12 emphasizes a Fine Arts approach to all courses in support of the National Art Standards which align with Common Core State Standards and is rooted in Discipline Based Art Education (DBAE) It offers a variety of full and half year electives ranging from Introductory to Advanced, Honors and AP levels which may be taken to fulfill the VOG Art/Humanities one credit graduation requirement.


Classes offer a wide range of learning opportunities that focus on intelligent problem-solving, respectful classroom collaboration and strong literacy/communication skills. Students explore different media/processes and develop a variety of skills to produce work that demonstrates quality craftsmanship and clear appreciation/understanding of the meaning and purpose of Art across cultures. They practice informed critical thinking and decision-making and are encouraged to realize their creative artistic potential for self-expression while developing lifelong 21st century skills and confidence in their abilities/ideas. Students who choose to pursue a career in Art are advised and supported through portfolio preparation for the college application process.

Students may also participate in prestigious art exhibitions for recognition/scholarships/awards including the Scholastic Arts, Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC) and Congressional Arts Competitions, Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS) Awards and "Art Beat", the district-wide celebration of the artistic talents and achievements of North Haven children

Art Department Overview Video

ART_2022 Course Selection.mp4

Art Department High School Electives 9-12


DRAWING AND PAINTING


Drawing and Painting I (656) Students create works of art from both observation and imagination exploring pencil, colored pencil, charcoal, acrylic, watercolors and more. They learn valuable techniques and develop skills necessary to incorporate perspective, shading variations, focal point and unity in creating successful 2 dimensional artwork.


Advanced Drawing and Painting (658H)

Students will study artistic styles using a variety of materials as part of the learning process. Students draw and paint from observation and create landscapes, portraits, and studies of the human figure.


AP Studio Art in Drawing (686A)

Students create a portfolio of work to be judged by the AP College Board for college credit. Students participate in juried and community art shows and competitions.


PHOTOGRAPHY


Photography I (670)

Students learn digital and film photography. Adobe Photoshop software and traditional darkroom printing techniques are covered and students learn steps involved in showcasing their finished artwork for displays and competitions.


Advanced Photography (672H)

Students master the concepts of composition and alternative photography techniques in both digital and traditional photography. Students explore creative and professional/career oriented goals. Students participate in juried and community art shows and competitions.


AP Studio Art in Photography (686B) Students create a portfolio of photographs to be judged by the AP College Board for college credit. Students participate in juried and community art shows and competitions.


CERAMICS

Ceramic Design (669) Students create artwork with clay through traditional hand-building techniques and on the potter’s wheel.


Advanced Clay Methods (677H) Students gain expertise in wheel-thrown pottery and hand-building. Students explore glazing and creative surface treatment options.


ANIMATION


Animation I (6550) Students will study the moving image and create storyboards and character development. Students will have the opportunity to use a variety of Adobe software.


Advanced Animation (6552H) Students will use the 12 Principles of Animation to accomplish goals individually and as team collaborators. Students will also explore related careers in the arts/digital media.


DESIGN

New half year L2 Course: Pop-Up Art Shop (6506) Students create multi-faceted design projects using media and construction techniques through the development of 21st century processes and skills. They produce, brand, and market artwork on local/global levels, learning pop-up industry trends and exploring a range of platforms. Focus is on creating a variety of saleable art products while developing a clear understanding of how the Arts factor into the world of business and marketing.

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New Half Year L2 Course: Intro to Adobe Photoshop (678)

Students will use digital photography as an art form and marketing tool to create project-oriented work with Adobe Photoshop. They will use techniques to communicate ideas and information and acquire Photoshop certification.

New Half Year L2 Course: Intro to Adobe Illustrator (6780)

Students will create vector graphics in Adobe Illustrator to draw images. Class includes creating graphics such as logos, typography, complex illustrations, for print, web, and mobile.


How will taking an Art class benefit me?


  • Learn to solve problems, develop creative thinking skills, and make informed decisions

  • Learn to use the Adobe Creative Cloud editing software used by the professionals in art-related careers

  • Students with a strong education in fine arts score significantly higher (an average of 40 points) on SAT exams.

Extra-Curricular Opportunities


North Haven Art Honor Society – Art students who maintain an A average in two completed art courses and remain active in the Art Department and wish to contribute creatively to school, community, and society are invited to apply. The organization focuses on a variety of humanitarian causes such as creating "Healing Shawls" for cancer patients and providing support for those in need. Members also serve as MS Art Ambassadors and assist with Art Beat and other Art-related events/activities.


Art Club - The Art Club is open to students of all grade levels and artistic abilities. It offers students opportunities to share interests/talents and sharpen artistic skills, while working on group and/or independent projects to promote the Arts.


Phoenix School Newspaper- Students are invited to join the team of photojournalists, layout designers, writers and editors of the school newspaper to help produce an inclusive and highly professional publication featured on the NH District website.


FASCINATING FACT: THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE ARTS TO THE US ECONOMY HAS INCREASED 35% BETWEEN 1998 AND 2014, AND CONTINUES TO GROW YEARLY! CONSIDER A CAREER IN THE ARTS!