Art 1

What Is Art 1?

Art 1 is an introductory high school visual arts class designed for students of all skill levels — whether you’ve been drawing for years or haven’t picked up a sketchbook in a while.

In this class, you will:

• Learn foundational art skills and techniques

• Explore a variety of media (drawing, painting, sculpture, mixed media, and more)

• Develop creativity and problem-solving skills

• Build confidence in expressing your ideas visually

• Learn how to talk about and analyze artwork

Art 1 is about growth, experimentation, and discovering your creative voice.

What You Will Learn

Throughout the year, students will explore:

Drawing Fundamentals

• Shading and value

• Contour and gesture drawing

• Perspective

• Proportion and realism

Elements & Principles of Art

• Line, shape, color, texture, space, form, value

• Balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, pattern, rhythm, unity

Creative Process

• Brainstorming and sketching

• Planning compositions

• Revising and improving work

• Reflecting on artistic choices

Art Critique & Reflection

• Writing about artwork

• Participating in group critiques

• Giving and receiving constructive feedback

What Is Expected in This Class?

Art is fun — but it also requires focus, effort, and responsibility.

Come Prepared

• Bring required materials daily (sketchbook, pencil, etc.)

• Be ready to work when class begins

Participate Actively

• Try new techniques

• Ask questions

• Engage in critiques and discussions

Respect the Studio Space

• Clean up your area

• Take care of materials and tools

• Respect other students’ artwork and ideas

Show Effort & Growth

You do not need to be “good at art” to succeed. What matters most is:

• Effort

• Improvement

• Creativity

• Willingness to learn

How You Will Be Graded

Grades are based on:

• Demonstration of understanding of skills being addressed

• Craftsmanship and effort

• Creativity and originality

• Participation in critiques and discussions

• Meeting deadlines

Growth and effort are valued more than perfection.

Mindset for Success

In Art 1, mistakes are part of the process. You will:

• Experiment

• Revise

• Problem-solve

• Try again

Art is not about being perfect — it’s about learning to see, think, and create in new ways.

Why Take Art 1?

Art helps you:

• Build creative confidence

• Strengthen observation skills

• Improve focus and patience

• Develop visual communication skills

• Prepare for advanced art classes, design, photography, or other creative pathways

Most importantly, Art 1 gives you space to create something that is uniquely yours.