Visual Arts

FOUNDATIONS OF ART & DESIGN - CP

Prerequisite: None

Credits: 5.0

This full year course is a prerequisite introduction to the visual arts program at SBHS. Students will move through units in; two-dimensional, three-dimensional, digital art/photography and basic visual language/skills. They will  make artworks in painting, drawing, print-making, sculpture, ceramics, contemporary crafts, and photography. A strong grounding in visual language will be given as students explore the elements and principles of design. In addition to art making they will look at and critique their work and that of accomplished artists as it relates to their exploration. 

FOUNDATIONS OF ART & DESIGN - CP

Prerequisite: None

Credits: 5.0

This full year course is a prerequisite introduction to the visual arts program at SBHS. Students will move through units in; two-dimensional, three-dimensional, digital art/photography and basic visual language/skills. They will  make artworks in painting, drawing, print-making, sculpture, ceramics, contemporary crafts, and photography. A strong grounding in visual language will be given as students explore the elements and principles of design. In addition to art making they will look at and critique their work and that of accomplished artists as it relates to their exploration. 

2D STUDIES - DRAWING - CP 

Prerequisite: Elements of Art & Design or Foundations of Art & Design

Credits: 2.5

Students taking Drawing will explore the Visual Elements and Principles of Design through the medium of drawing. Drawing is suited to students interested in fine art, graphic design, architecture, and fashion. Observational drawing is emphasized. The three primary goals of the course are to learn to judge proportion, to create volume, and to produce the illusion of space and depth, in addition to developing an honest personal style. Assignments focus on a variety of subject matter such as figure, landscape, portrait, and still life drawing. Students will have the opportunity to experiment with a number of media from pencil and charcoal to pen and ink. Art history and criticism are an integral part of the course. 

3D STUDIES - CERAMICS - CP 

Prerequisite: Elements of Art & Design or Foundations of Art & Design
Credits: 2.5
 

In Ceramics, students learn how to communicate effectively using the elements of art and principles of design: line, space, form, value, shape, color, texture, and pattern. They will learn how to define, analyze, and solve visual problems in three dimensions, as well as access and interpret information from a variety of sources to create and explore with hand-building and glazing techniques. Students draw inspiration from the world around them, the works of other artists, and their imaginations

3D STUDIES - SCULPTURE - CP

Prerequisite: Ceramics

Credits: 2.5   

The World is not flat! In this hands-on course, students are challenged to explore three dimensions. They will model with clay and plaster; construct with paper, wire, wood, and found objects; and carve plaster and soapstone. Master sculptors from the past and present are explored and analyzed. Emphasis is on process, problem-solving, and self-expression. Sculpture is a foundation for a variety of careers including, architecture, fashion, product design, theatre and entertainment, and model making, and is essential for anyone majoring in art or the design fields. 

2D PAINTING I - CP

Prerequisite: Elements of Art & Design or Foundations of Art & Design
Credits: 2.5   

Students will explore a variety of artists, painting processes, and materials as they develop their own abilities while building portfolio pieces. The structure allows for students to learn both foundational painting skills and techniques while exploring their personal artistic expression. Famous painters are analyzed and discussed to provide a strong context of the painting world to the students. Course media include the use of tempera, acrylic, oil, and watercolor. Visual elements and principles are examined throughout the course and carefully considered in the project management of each work.

2D STUDIES PAINTING II - CP

Prerequisite: Painting I
Credits: 2.5  

The purpose of this course is to allow students to learn both basic skills and techniques and to explore ways to develop these skills. Famous painters are discussed frequently. Course activities include the use of tempera, acrylic, and watercolor. Painting II is an extension of Painting I, the purpose of which is to allow students to experience more advanced skills in painting. Subject matter includes ideas for landscapes, figures, compositions, portraits, still life arrangements, situations, places, feelings, and emotions. The works of famous and local artists are used to reinforce the concepts and techniques taught.

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY - CP

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Elements of Art & Design or Foundations of Art & Design

Credits: 2.5 

In this half-year fine arts course, students will be introduced to the digital SLR camera and Photoshop. The following material will be thoroughly covered: camera functions, composition, and Photoshop editing. Students will learn studio photography techniques.  Throughout this course, students will learn how to semi-manually operate a digital SLR camera by controlling shutter speeds, apertures, and other settings. Students will create a working online portfolio. 

ADVANCED DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY - CP

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Digital Photography; Teacher Recommendation

Credits: 2.5 

In this half-year fine arts course, students will continue to master the digital SLR camera and Photoshop. The following material will be thoroughly covered: photographic composition, different genres, Photoshop, and commercial photography. Throughout this course, students will continue to semi-manually operate a digital SLR camera by controlling shutter speeds, apertures, and other settings. In addition, students will learn the basics of color theory and conceptual application. Students will create a working online portfolio.

AP STUDIO ART: 2D DESIGN 

Prerequisite: 10 Credits in Visual Arts Courses; Teacher Recommendation; Portfolio Review

Credits: 5.0 

In this rigorous, college-level course, students will work independently throughout the school year to create coherent, engaging, original work that demonstrates the students’ ability to investigate a theme through their artwork. The ultimate goal of this course is to participate in the College Board's AP Portfolio review process. AP Studio Art is not based on a traditional exam evaluation; instead, students submit portfolios and two brief writing prompts for evaluation at the end of the school year. Students will know, value, and seek the formal critique process to better their work. Both in-class and personal time must be allotted to succeed in this program. College credit may be received upon completion. A portfolio must be submitted to the College Board in May to earn weighted GPA credits.