ART

Foundations in Art

Full Year Course Number: 5011

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

This course will introduce students to a variety of basic art knowledge and skills. The units are based on different processes and concepts that are aligned with the upper level art classes we offer so students can further develop skills in that area if they choose. The first semester starts with an introduction unit familiarizing students with the art room, norms, terminology, and standards. The following units focus on two-dimensional art: drawing, painting, and printmaking. The second semester focuses on three-dimensional art: ceramics, sculpture, and mixed-media. Each unit covers basic knowledge and terminology, related art history or culture, skills and techniques, planning and goal setting, student artwork, and a form of critique or reflection. The last unit of the year takes a look at possible art careers and pathways. Throughout the course students will compile their work into a slideshow so they exit with a personal portfolio of their work. Students will learn the Elements of Art and Principles of Design, basic art concepts and techniques, how to analyze artwork, and how to express themselves through visual art.

Art Journaling*

Half Year Course Number: 5001

Grades: 10, 11, 12

This course is designed for students who want to combine art-making and media exploration with written journaling and self-reflection. Inspiration will be derived from a variety of prompts, combining written and visual language. There will be opportunity for student choice and personalization with a focus on mindfulness and wellness in the creation of a semester-long, mixed-media journal.

Prerequisite: Foundations in Art

Painting*

Half Year Course Number: 5017

Grades: 10, 11, 12

This course will enhance student knowledge and skills in painting with in depth exploration of materials, tools, and proper techniques associated with acrylic and watercolor paints. The units will cover a variety of subjects and styles. Students will learn how the the Elements of Art and Principles of Design work with various techniques to create various outcomes. Each unit will cover examples from art history, planning and goal setting, creation of an original work of art, and will conclude with a critique or reflection. There will be opportunity for student choice and personalization. Students will further develop their creative thinking skills, ability to analyze artwork, understanding the Elements of Art and Principles of Design, and self-expression through visual art.

Prerequisite: Foundations in Art

Ceramics*

Half Year Course Number: 5019

Grades: 10, 11, 12

This course covers the tools, techniques, and processes associated with basic handbuilding and finishing of clay pieces. Units are set up to cover the basic hand-building techniques and will cover related art history, planning, goal setting, creation of an original work of art, and will end with a critique and reflection. Assignments will cover a variety of functional and non-functional work with opportunity for personalization. Students will further develop their creative thinking skills, ability to analyze artwork, understanding of the Elements and Principles and self-expression through visual art.

Prerequisite: Foundations in Art

Mixed Media*

Half Year Course Number: 5012

Grades: 10, 11, 12

This course introduces students to both traditional and nontraditional materials and processes. Students will explore 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional mixed-media techniques used in fine art. Each unit will cover related art history, planning and goal-setting, creation of an original work of art, and will finally conclude with a critique and reflection. Students will further develop their creative thinking skills, as well as their ability to visually communicate to the viewer and analyze artwork. Throughout the course, they will deepen their understanding of the Elements and Principles while fostering self-expression through multiple art skills and techniques.

Prerequisite: Foundations in Art

Portfolio*

Half Year or Full Year Course Number: 5018

Grades: 11, 12

This course is designed for students planning on attending art school to develop and prepare their portfolios. Specific or general guidelines straight from college requirements will lay the individualized curriculum for students. The direction of this class will be to create a personal portfolio of previously created artwork and to fill necessary gaps with added support and instruction. Teacher will also prepare students on how to prepare and talk about their artwork and other skills necessary for a portfolio review or admission process.

Prerequisite: 2 upper level art classes, teacher approval, & postgrad plans to continue in the arts

IB Visual Art 1 *

Full Year Course Numbers: 1027

Grade: 11

Prerequisite: Foundations in Art teacher approval

IB Visual Art 2 (SL & HL)*

Full Year Course Numbers: 1008 & 1235

Grade: 12

Prerequisite: IB Art 1 teacher approval

In this course students will explore the visual arts through a variety of processes and studio work. Students will experiment with tools, techniques, and processes associated with two-dimensional, three-dimensional, and lens based artworks that demonstrate confidence and expertise in the various media. Students will deepen their understanding of art concepts, history and cultures, extend their knowledge of the Elements of Art and Principles of Design, as well as develop their art criticism and analysis ability. Personal interest, inspiration, and aesthetic preferences will determine each student's individual course of study. Students will develop their own perspectives and approaches to art through individual investigation, both visual and written. An ongoing journaling and documentation of experiments and studies will be refined in a process portfolio, along with a final exhibition show, and an extensive comparative study are all essential aspects of this course.