Visual Arts

Open to:  9th grade
Meetings per ten-day rotation: Five 80 minute periods
Prerequisites: None

This course provides 9th grade students with a foundation in studio art. Students are introduced to the elements and principles of design whilst experimenting with a variety of materials. Throughout the semester, the class will explore numerous mediums including, but not limited to: drawing, painting, sculpture, assemblage, printmaking, and digital art. Students will explore their individual creativity as well as how to create collaboratively with other student artists. Students will be asked to empathize with others, push themselves outside their comfort zones and grow from the unexpected. The elements and principles of design are a vital component of the course. By balancing the study of art history, studio practice, and art criticism, students develop various approaches to art-making and gain insight into the ever-changing world of art.

Open to: 10th - 12th grade
Meetings per ten-day rotation: Four 100 minute periods
Prerequisites: None

In Photography I, students will explore the technical and creative aspects of digital photography using DSLR cameras and phone cameras. Exploring various types of composition guidelines such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, framing, symmetry, and perspective, students will learn and use these essential tools for capturing compelling shots. Through hands-on assignments and editing photographs, students will apply these core principles across various subjects in photography such as portraiture, landscape, action, and aesthetic photography. Students hope to evoke emotions, direct the viewer's eye on a specific subject, and create visual interest in their images. Alongside technical skills, students will engage in critique sessions and discussions on historical and contemporary perspectives in photography. The course will culminate in the creation of a digital portfolio, showcasing the students' best work and demonstrating their mastery of composition and photographic techniques.

Open to: 11th - 12th grade
Meetings per ten-day rotation: Four 100 minute periods
Prerequisites: Photography I

In Photography II, students will expand upon their foundational knowledge from Photography I by diving deeper into the creative possibilities of digital practices. Through advanced editing techniques and the exploration of unique perspectives, they will further their understanding of the photographic medium, utilizing both DSLR cameras and phone cameras to capture visually compelling images. Additionally, students will refine their skills in many of the Adobe Creative Cloud programs, including Photoshop and Lightroom, and explore the integration of AI-generated images into their work. The course will oer opportunities to explore other creative practices such as mixed media, performance art, installation, and video. Students who have mastered DSLR cameras will have the chance to experiment with traditional film photography. Through hands-on exploration and engaging discussions, students will gain a deep appreciation for photography as a vital component of modern artistry.

Open to: 10th - 12th grade
Meetings per ten-day rotation: Four 100 minute periods
Prerequisites: Photography I and Photography II

Building on the studio skills built in Photography II, students are pushed to examine the meaning and concepts behind their work on a deeper level. While students can continue using photography as their primary medium, in this course, students will focus on seeing meaning driving form instead of meaning dictated by form. Other practices open to investigation include but are not limited to mixed media (digital analog), performance art, installation and video art. Students will continue to learn about their own creative process and build on their skills of iteration, reflection, and critique from Photography II. At the end of the semester, students will present a body of work that drives conversation, engagement, and contemplation.

Open to: 10th - 12th grade
Meetings per ten-day rotation: Four 100 minute periods
Prerequisites: None

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of three-dimensional art through various sculptural techniques and materials. Students will explore traditional and contemporary approaches to sculpture, working with mediums such as clay, wire, wood, plaster, and found objects. Emphasis will be placed on the elements and principles of design, spatial awareness, and craftsmanship. Students will engage in hands-on projects that develop their modeling, assembling, and casting skills while also studying sculpture's historical and cultural significance.

Open to: 10th - 12th grade
Meetings per ten-day rotation: Four 100 minute periods
Prerequisites: None

This course introduces students to the world of fiber arts, exploring both traditional and contemporary techniques. Students will learn various methods of textile creation, including weaving, knitting, crocheting, felting, embroidery, and dyeing. Through hands-on projects, they will develop an understanding of design, color theory, and craftsmanship while gaining an appreciation for cultural and historical influences in fiber arts. Students will be encouraged to experiment with dierent materials and techniques to create unique, expressive pieces. The course emphasizes creativity, patience, and attention to detail, making it suitable for both beginners and those with prior experience in fiber arts.

Open to: 10th - 12th grade
Meetings per ten-day rotation: Four 100 minute periods
Prerequisites: None

Ceramics I is a clay-building class that explores both hand-building methods and wheel-throwing techniques. The emphasis of this course focuses on understanding and applying the aesthetics, processes, forms, and functions of ceramics. Students will build on their prior knowledge of clay to construct not only functional pieces but purely artistic expressions as well. All projects will include exposure to various tools, techniques, history, and vocabulary. Ceramics I is now taught separately from Ceramics II.

Open to: 11th - 12th grade
Meetings per ten-day rotation: Four 100 minute periods
Prerequisites: Ceramics I

Ceramics II provides students with the opportunity to develop an in-depth knowledge of and applied skills in the art of ceramics. Wheel techniques will be fully explored, as well as many sculptural and glazing techniques. Activities will be individualized according to the ability level of each student. Students will show and share a body of work at the end of the semester to display their investigation with clay. Ceramics II and Advanced Ceramics are taught together.

Open to: 11th- 12th grade
Meetings per ten-day rotation: Four 100 minute periods
Prerequisites: Ceramics II

Advanced Ceramics fosters independent exploration and collaboration, focusing on creating a themed vessel collection. Students refine technical skills, experiment with forms, and document 19 their creative process to build a portfolio. The course culminates in a demonstration of advanced techniques, preparing students for further study or personal artistic growth.

Open to: 11th - 12th grade
Meetings per ten-day rotation: Six 50 minute periods
Prerequisites: Participation in at least one major level course with a final grade of at least an A-, completed application, teacher recommendation, Department Chair signature, and completion of summer assignment.

Advanced Portfolio Development is a college-level course for motivated students pursuing 2D or 3D media. Guided by a personal inquiry, students explore materials through artist studies, sketchbook research, historical context, and mentorship. A sketchbook documenting ideas, research, and experiments is maintained year-round. Regular critiques support artistic growth. Students will be assessed both formatively and summatively, with two in-class assessments: a first-semester artwork and a final portfolio presentation. The course emphasizes independent studio work, exhibition opportunities, and portfolio development.

Open to: 12th grade
Meetings per ten-day rotation: Six 50 minute periods, during US Lunch
Prerequisites: Participation in Advanced Portfolio Development course, teacher recommendation, department chair signature, and completion of summer assignment.

AP Studio Art is a rigorous, college-level course designed for motivated pupils committed to developing a strong personal portfolio. Pupils will create a Sustained Investigation, exploring a central theme through a series of works, and submit Selected Works that demonstrate technical and conceptual mastery. A sketchbook/journal will document idea development, material exploration, and research on historical and contemporary artists. Regular critiques will foster artistic growth, and additional open studio hours will support independent work. The course culminates in the submission of a portfolio to the College Board in May.