Welcome to Fall Art Classes!

As the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, we’re excited to dive into another season of creativity and expression in our art classes. Whether you’re just starting your artistic journey or are honing your skills in AP Studio Art, this fall promises to be full of inspiration and growth.

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Art 1

What We’ll Be Learning:

• Exploring the Basics:  This semester, we’ll focus on foundational techniques that will set you up for success in your artistic journey. From drawing to shading, you’ll get hands-on experience with various media.

• Art History Highlights:  We’ll also take a look at some key artists both traditional and contemporary, giving you context and inspiration for your own work.

Projects to Look Forward To:

• Line Drawing:  We’ll start with simple line drawings, learning how to see lines.

• Positive/Negative Drawing:  We’ll progress into learning about space in drawings and recognizing the positive space and negative space.

• Perspective Drawing:  Think about how images look smaller as they go away from you. This is perspective.

• Blind, Modified, Rendering Contour Drawing:  As we begin to see lines, we will approach drawing without looking and focus on the lines.

• Still Life Drawing:  We’ll start with simple objects, learning how to capture light, shadow, and form.

Tips for Success:

• Practice Makes Perfect:  Don’t be afraid to make mistakes—every artist does! Use your sketchbook to practice regularly.

• Ask Questions:  Art is about exploration, so if you’re unsure about something, ask! I’m here to help you grow.

• Be Open to Feedback:  Constructive criticism is a valuable tool for improvement. Embrace it!

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AP Studio Art

What We’ll Be Focusing On:

• Portfolio Development:  This semester, we’ll be working intensively on building your AP portfolio. This will include a concentration on sustained investigation, where you’ll develop a cohesive body of work around a central theme.

• Advanced Techniques:  We’ll explore more complex techniques and media, pushing the boundaries of your artistic abilities.

Key Projects:

• Sustained Investigation:  Begin your first series of works that explore a theme or question of your choice. This is the cornerstone of your AP portfolio.

• Selected Works:  Continue developing pieces that demonstrate a range of techniques and approaches, showcasing your versatility as an artist.

• Critiques and Revisions:  Regular critiques will help refine your work. Be prepared to revisit and improve your pieces as you build your portfolio.

Advice for the Season:

• Time Management:  Balancing your portfolio development with other schoolwork is key. Plan your time wisely to avoid last-minute stress.

• Be Bold:  Now is the time to take risks in your art. Push yourself to try new things and explore unfamiliar territory.

• Peer Feedback:  Use your classmates as a resource. Sharing ideas and giving each other feedback will strengthen everyone’s work.

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Upcoming Events

• Winter Showcase:  Mark your calendars for our annual Winter Showcase in December! This will be a chance for a select group of students to display their work and celebrate their progress.

• Guest Artist Workshop:  We are looking to hear from a talented professional artist who will share their process and give new insights into professional practices.

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re just starting out or are preparing for your AP exams, this fall is a time to grow, experiment, and express yourself. Remember, art is about the journey as much as the destination—so enjoy every moment of your creative process!

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Stay Inspired,

Mrs. Burgan

Welcome to the Second Semester!

As we kick off the second half of the school year, we are excited to share updates, achievements, and upcoming plans for our Visual Arts program, including Art 1 and AP Studio Art. Creativity is flourishing, and our students are making strides in their artistic journeys.

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Art 1

This semester, our Art 1 students will dive deeper into foundational techniques, including:

• Color Theory: Understanding color relationships and applying them to create dynamic compositions.

• Exhibitions: Learning what is required to set up and host an art exhibition.

Student Spotlight: Last semester, we were amazed by the progress of our Art 1 students. Special recognition goes to Alina Gracia for their outstanding landscape drawing of the San Gorgonio Theatre, which demonstrated exceptional use of sighting!

What’s Ahead: Students will work on implementing learned skills to create an abstract painting by using a variety of color schemes.

Tips for Success:

• Attendance: It is vital to be in class and be on time, working until the end of class in order to complete your assignments.

• Practice Makes Perfect: Don't be afraid to make mistakes - every artist does!

• Ask Questions: Art is about exploration, so if you're unsure about something, ask! I'm here to help you grow.

• Be Open to Feedback: Constructive criticism is a valuable tool for improvement. Embrace it!

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AP Studio Art

Our AP Studio Art students have been hard at work developing their portfolios. This semester focuses on:

• Sustained Investigation: Deepening exploration of a chosen theme through a cohesive body of work.

• Refining Techniques: Elevating craftsmanship and conceptual thinking in their pieces.

• Portfolio Preparation: Organizing and photographing works for submission to the College Board.

Portfolio Sneak Peek: Themes our students are investigating include:

• The interplay between nature and architecture.

• Identity and self-expression through surrealism.

• Environmental commentary in abstract forms.

Advice for the Season:

• Time Management:  Balancing your portfolio development with other schoolwork is key. Plan your time wisely to avoid last-minute stre

Save the Date: Join us for the AP Studio Art Showcase (DATE COMING SOON)! This event will highlight the incredible talent and creativity of our AP students.

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Upcoming Events & Opportunities

• Art Club Meetings: Open to all students once a month during lunch in Room E-3. This semester’s focus is on exhibition planning.

• Spring Art Exhibit: This event will showcase works from AP Studio Art students. Date is coming soon.

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How You Can Support Us

• Donate Supplies: We are always in need of sketchbooks, brushes, and canvases. Every contribution helps our students grow.

• Volunteer: Assist with events, field trips, or exhibit setup. Email jennifer.burgan@sbcusd.k12.ca.us for more information.

• Spread the Word: Encourage friends and family to sign up for our art classes and attend our showcases and support young artists.

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Thank You!

Thank you for your continued support of our Visual Arts program. Together, we are nurturing creativity and empowering the next generation of artists. Here’s to a vibrant and inspiring second semester!

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Stay Inspired,

Mrs. Burgan