The first unit of this course introduces students to the idea that creativity is a skill that can be developed through practice, experimentation, and self-expression. Students will learn strategies for generating ideas, brainstorming, and overcoming creative blocks such as self-doubt or fear of making mistakes.

To begin this journey, students will engage with The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds, a story that celebrates the power of starting small and believing in one’s creative potential. Inspired by the book, students will complete The Dot Project, where they are challenged to design a unique and imaginative “dot” artwork. This project encourages students to embrace risk-taking, explore their imaginations, and recognize that every mark they make can lead to new creative possibilities.

Artwork by Maddie. P

In this unit, students will explore identity through the art of collage. They will learn how to use personal imagery, symbols, and found materials to create artworks that reflect who they are and what is meaningful to them. Alongside exploring identity, students will practice key composition rules that help artists organize their work in powerful ways. These include the rule of thirds, establishing a focal point, and creating balance through the arrangement of shapes, colors, and textures. Students will analyze how these principles guide the viewer’s eye and strengthen the overall design of an artwork. By the end of the unit, students will create a collage sketchbook cover that demonstrates both thoughtful composition and a personal connection to their identity. 

Artwork by Hannah F.

In this unit, students will explore the theme of empowerment in art through the creation of alter ego character designs! They will investigate how clothing, costumes, and character design can influence the way we feel, and how self-expression in art and design can give us a sense of strength, confidence, and identity. Students will learn about contemporary artists who use their work as a form of self-empowerment and creative storytelling. 

Artwork by Vanessa C.

In this unit, students will explore the Principles of Design through the creation of an assemblage sculpture inspired by the work of artist Louise Nevelson. Nevelson was known for her large-scale sculptures made from found objects, which she arranged into unified compositions and often painted in a single color.

Students will work collaboratively to design, arrange, and assemble their own found objects into a thoughtful composition. By experimenting with placement and form, they will see how everyday materials can be transformed into meaningful works of art.

By the end of the unit, students will gain a deeper understanding of how artists can use recycled and ordinary objects to create something visually powerful, while also experiencing the creative possibilities of working with unconventional materials. 

Artwork by Dylan, Angelique, Simon & Abigail

Students create a personalized illustrated recipe that honors a meaningful family or cultural dish, using watercolor and hand-lettering to visually tell the story of their ingredients and cooking steps. Students begin by planning a layout, sketching ingredients, steps, and the finished dish, then sizing and arranging each element to create a composition. They add ink and watercolor and complete the piece with a title and directions. Throughout the project, students learn to communicate through imagery and composition, connect personal or cultural identity to their artwork, apply transparent watercolor techniques, practice font styles, and learn how to create a balanced design that is a visually engaging layout with breathing room. 

In this unit, students will explore how art can help us live more mindfully by creating a space for relaxation, focus, and self-reflection. Through different projects, students will practice using art as a tool for mindfulness, learning how to be present in the moment and connect with their emotions.

Students will discover how art can express feelings that are sometimes hard to put into words. They will experiment with abstract art, drawing to music, and playful mark-making to experience how creativity can bring calm, focus, and joy.

The unit will also encourage students to embrace experimentation, letting go of self-criticism and exploring art in a more open and intuitive way. By the end of the unit, students will understand how art can support emotional well-being while also helping them grow as creative thinkers and makers.

Artwork by Alexa M.