Studio in Art

This foundational course gives students a variety of art-making experiences in a traditional art studio setting that meets the State art requirement for graduation. Students will be able to explore a wide range of methods and materials involved in drawing and painting, graphic design, printmaking and 3-D design. The elements of art and principles of design are emphasized, as students learn to use these concepts and tools as a means towards greater self-expression.

Drawing and Painting

Full Year, 1 credit
Prerequisite: Studio in Art, Graphic Arts and Media Design or 3-D Design
An in-coming 9th grader may take this course upon completion of the high school equivalent of Studio in Art at the middle school. This course is structured to enable the art student to develop his/her talents in two-dimensional representation. Emphasis will be placed on developing the student’s drawing skills through a series of simple perceptual exercises and direct observation drawing projects, as well as on expanding the student’s abilities to think creatively. Each student will be encouraged to explore various methods, use of materials, techniques and mixed media towards developing their own unique style as an avenue for enhanced personal expression. Completed artwork will be featured on display and should be suitable for inclusion in a personal portfolio.

Advanced Drawing and Painting

Full Year, 1 credit
Prerequisite: Drawing and Painting/or permission of the Art Department
This course is designed to assist students in furthering their drawing abilities in both direct observation and conceptual and imaginational styles. For the drawing component, a variety of drawing media, methods and techniques will be explored, and the topics are influenced by class interest. They may include: still life, figure drawing, proportion, anatomy, perspective and space, mark making, rendering, design and composition. In the painting component, students will have an in-depth experience using a variety of paint media and techniques while exploring a more personal approach to expressing form, content, meaning and context. For this, the formal study of composition and color theory will be integrated into the painting experience. As a fundamental skill for all forms of artistic expression, Advanced Drawing and Painting is recommended for all art majors. Additionally, this course is recommended for preparing students for AP Drawing or AP 2D Design in a subsequent year.