VISUAL ARTS

Intro to Art (780)

Grade 9 

Credit 0.25 

Art represents the integration of human experience with individual creativity. In this semester-long introductory course, students will gain an understanding of exemplary works of art from a variety of cultures and periods, and will have an opportunity to experiment with the elements of art and principles of design through a variety of studio experiences. 

Studio Art 1 (761)

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.5 

This year-long course is designed for the beginning art student. Basic techniques in applying the elements of art and principles of design will be covered with a strong emphasis on observational drawing and painting. Instruction is given individually to develop and enhance each student’s abilities to her fullest potential. There is a $200 fee for this course to cover the cost of materials. 

Studio Art 2 (762)

Grade 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.5 

Prerequisite: Studio Art 1.  

This semester-long course is designed for the second year art student. Basic knowledge and techniques from Studio 1 are reviewed and expanded upon by investigating more complex subject matter and artistic processes. There is a $200 fee for this course to cover the cost of materials. Approval from Mrs. Brown or Mrs. Bacastow is required.

Watercolor Painting (795)

Grade 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.25 

Prerequisite: Intro to Art or Studio Art 1.

In this semester-long course, students will be introduced to watercolor by applying the basic techniques and processes associated with this medium. Students work towards developing a thematic and stylized body of work. There is a $100 fee for this course to cover the cost of materials. 

Acrylic Painting (762) * NEW ! *

Grade 10, 11, 12

Credit 0.25

Prerequisite: Intro to Art or Studio Art 1.

In this semester-long course, students are introduced to the fundamentals of color, composition, and creative expression through hands-on studio practice. Students will experiment with and explore a variety of techniques including layering, blending, glazing, and building textures while developing their own voice. Students will create both observational and imaginative projects. By the end of the course, students will have work that showcases technical skill, creativity, and confidence. There is a $100 fee for this course to cover the cost of materials. 

Interior Design (742)

Grade 10, 11, 12

Credit 0.25

Prerequisite: Intro to Art or Studio Art 1.

In this semester-long course, students will be introduced to the processes of interior design and the various aspects and considerations involved in interior design as a profession. Students will discover design basics, color theory, and drafting. This course will reinforce skills in mathematics and art.  Through the topics covered in this course, students will have the opportunity to work with a variety of materials including but not limited to drawing, collage and tile work. There is a $100 fee for this course to cover the cost of materials. 

Ceramics 1 (741)

Grade 11, 12 

Credit 0.25 

In this semester-long course, students will learn basic hand building techniques as well as the process behind creating wheel-thrown forms. Students will learn about glaze application and glazing techniques. There is a $100 fee for this course to cover the cost of materials. 

Ceramics 2 (743)

Grade 11, 12 

Credit 0.25 

Prerequisite: Ceramics 1.  

This semester-long course builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired in Ceramics 1. Students will explore form with wheel and hand-building techniques, while more advanced topics will be introduced and applied. A variety of glazing techniques will be explored. Emphasis will be placed on thoughtfully planned forms and designs as well as good craftsmanship. There is a $100 fee for this course to cover the cost of materials. 

Ceramics Independent Study (746)

Grade 12 

Credit 0.25 

Prerequisite: Ceramics 1 & 2.  

In this advanced semester-long course, students will build upon the concepts and skills learned in Ceramics 1 and Ceramics 2. Students are guided to work on independent projects pertaining to a chosen theme. Students will explore more advanced topics and techniques. There is a $100 fee for this course to cover the cost of materials. Class size will be limited as space permits.  Approval from Mrs. Brown or Mrs. Bacastow is required.

Digital Art & Illustration-FA (745)

Grade 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.25 

In this semester-long course, students will learn the basic principles of graphic design and how to translate their ideas electronically.  With an emphasis on concept, creativity, and composition, students will use Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop to visually communicate their ideas with both clarity and impact — translating abstract concepts into compelling digital imagery. Beyond technical skills, this course fosters a collaborative environment where students present their work, engage in constructive critiques with peers, and explore real-life applications and career paths. 

Graphic Design-FA (744)

Grade 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.25 

Prerequisite: Digital Art & Illustration

In this semester-long course, students will bridge the gap between traditional creativity and modern technology by mastering the elements and principles of design in digital art. Beginning with basic logo design, students will learn how to build a cohesive brand identity and strategically apply it across diverse platforms, ensuring a consistent message and tone. Creative emphasis is placed on typography, color theory, and experimentation while technical emphasis is placed on the Adobe Illustrator interface, essential tools, and proper file handling. 

Honors Art Major (710)

Grade 11, 12 

Credit 0.5 

Prerequisite: Studio Art 1, teacher recommendation/approval.  

This semester-long course is offered as a major subject to junior and senior students who show aptitude in the arts. The elements of art and principles of design are reiterated and investigated through the completion of advanced drawing and painting projects. Students will learn about and investigate a variety of topics and artists. They are expected to create work correlating to those experiences, thus expanding artistic ideas and processes. Teacher approval is required for this course. There is a fee of $200 for this course to cover the cost of materials for the semester.  Approval from Mrs. Brown or Mrs. Bacastow is required.

Honors Advanced Art Major (711)

Grade 12 

Credit 1.0

Prerequisite: Studio Art 1 and teacher recommendation/approval. 

This year-long course is designed for the advanced art student. Students will investigate concepts and projects stemming from prior art experience, such as advanced drawing and painting. Students are required to complete AP Studio Art summer assignments, as well as concentration and breadth requirements. There is a fee of $200 for this course to cover the cost of materials for the year.  Approval from Mrs. Brown or Mrs. Bacastow is required.

AP Drawing (790) / AP 2-D Art & Design (791) 

Grade 12 

Credit 1.0 

Prerequisite: Studio Art 1 and teacher recommendation/approval.  

A year-long intensive course, AP Art is designed for the highly motivated student who is serious about studying art, displays motivation, and demonstrates initiative. Portfolios of study will be decided during the first month of school. Both AP Drawing and AP 2-D Art & Design require an extensive body of work including selected works and a sustained investigation, all individually based. There are suggested guidelines so that the teacher and student may collectively discuss options for study and practice. An extensive body of work to be completed during the summer will be required. Students are required to submit portfolios to the College Board. There is a fee of $200 for this course to cover the cost of materials for the year.  Approval from Mrs. Brown or Mrs. Bacastow is required.

AP Art History (720)   Will run in 2027-2028 academic year

Grade 11, 12 

Credit 1.0 

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation/approval.  

This year-long intensive course follows the syllabus requirements set by the College Board for Advanced Placement Art History. Students will experience a survey of the history of art from prehistoric through present times. Students will develop perceptual skills and visual arts vocabulary through reading, viewing art images, class discussion, and written and oral analysis. Students will research a variety of styles, genres, and artists to complete written and oral assignments. Students will be required to visit one local gallery, art center or museum and take the Advanced Placement Art History Examination in May.  Approval from Mrs. Brown or Mrs. Bacastow is required.