Fine Arts Department and AP Studio Art
8551 Art 1 – Introduction to Studio Art
(18 weeks, 1 credit)
This course is open to all students in grades 10-12 who are interested in beginning an exploratory study of art. Knowledge, skills, and techniques learned in grades K-9 serve as a starting point and foundation for students to develop and refine their ability to control various two- and three-dimensional media. Students will have introductory and developmental experiences in drawing, acrylic painting, printmaking, and sculpture. Students will also be involved in an active study of Art History, with a focus on American Art. Processes and skills associated with Art Criticism, Aesthetics, and Philosophy will also be explored.
8552 Art 2 – Intermediate Studio Art
(18 weeks, 1 credit)
Students who elect to take this course will explore a variety of media and techniques used to create artworks. The development of specific skills that emphasize the direct observation of objects in order to develop control over values, form, proportions, perspective and color within artworks will be emphasized. Students will learn how to create strong compositions in a variety of 2- and 3-dimensional media. In addition, students will be involved in a study of Art History, Aesthetics, and Art Criticism. The development of these abilities is necessary for the next level of art courses including AP Studio art. Prerequisites: Art 1, C or better or both Drawing & Painting 1 and Drawing & Painting 2, C or better
8553 Art 3 – Comprehensive Studio Art
(18 weeks, 1 credit)
In this course, there will be further development and refinement of skills and knowledge in life drawing, landscape drawing, watercolor and acrylic painting, additive and subtractive sculpture, advanced printmaking processes (e.g., serigraphy, etching, lithography), three-dimensional design, along with art-related careers, Art History, Criticism, and Philosophy. Students considering post-high school study and/or work in any related art field are encouraged to take this course. Prerequisite: Art 2, C or better.
8500 Advanced Placement Art and Design
(18 weeks, 1 credit) *Fall Only course
The AP Art and Design course is designed for students who are seriously interested in the practical experience of art and wish to develop mastery in the concept, composition, and execution of their ideas. In building the portfolio, students experience a variety of concepts, techniques and approaches designed to help them demonstrate their abilities as well as their versatility with techniques, problem-solving, and ideation. AP Art and Design is not based on a written exam; instead, students will develop a body of work that culminates in a portfolio. The portfolio requirements are divided up into two segments: The Sustained Investigation section of the portfolio includes 15 digital images of works of art that demonstrate process, experimentation, practice, and revision while investigating an idea or theme that has personal interest to the student. The Selected Works section of the portfolio is comprised of five artworks that demonstrate a clear understanding of concept, composition, and execution, whether they are simple or complex.
- Prerequisites for AP Studio ART
- 2D, Drawing and 3D (non-clay) portfolio = ART 1 and ART 2
- 3D (clay only) Ceramics 1 and 2
- Per the College Board, there are three portfolio options. Students may take this class more than once with different portfolios.
8554 Art 4 – Personal Directions in Studio Art and Portfolio
(18 weeks, 1 credit)
This course is intended for students seeking to develop a more sophisticated and personalized style for their artwork or for those who wish to prepare portfolios for college, employment interviews, or the College Board AP Art and Design course. Emphasis will be placed on developing creative solutions and expression in choice of media. Art History, Criticism, and Philosophy will be integrated into all units. Prerequisite: Art 3, C or better or AP Art and Design. Recommended to take this course in the spring after completing the fall course of AP Art and Design.