Upper School Studio Arts

TRIMESTER COURSES

Photography (Darkroom): Students will obtain an understanding of the technical aspects of photography including the operation of a 35mm camera and various darkroom techniques. A background in aesthetics will be established with regards to the use of the elements and principles of design.

Drawing: This course offers the opportunity for students interested in acquiring drawing skills to learn basic techniques and apply them to developing their own drawing style.  The goal of this hands-on studio course is expression through perceptual drawing. Students will be working from both life and imagination as they work to develop the perceptual, conceptual and mechanical skills necessary to translate three dimensional form and space onto a two dimensional surface. We will work primarily with dry, black media on paper.

Painting: Students will explore different painting techniques and applications. Students will experiment with India ink, watercolor and acrylic paint. Emphasis will be placed on color theory, composition, and paint quality. Students will give a research presentation on the work and life of a painter. Drawing experience is strongly recommended. 

Collage: Students will use the elements and principles of design to create 2-dimensional works.  Students will use a variety of materials to create collages inspired by observation, imagination, and design.   

Wheel Throwing (Pottery): Students will be offered the opportunity to learn how to use the potter's wheel to create functional vessels. Students will further investigate different glazes and glaze techniques to create desired surfaces for their work. Open to 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students.

Art Exploration:  Students will be introduced to the elements of art and principles of design through a variety of short term projects.  Focus will be placed on experimentation, process, and creativity.  Projects may include, but are not limited to:  drawing, photography, computer art, printmaking, collage, and ceramics.

Digital Photography:  Students will obtain an understanding of the elements and principles of design through the operation of a digital camera.  Simple digital manipulation techniques will be taught using Adobe Photoshop. Students will need to provide their own Digital Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera (not point and shoot) and the SLR operation manual for this course. 

The courses listed below can serve as either an art credit or a computer science credit.

Computer Art: This course explores artistic expression utilizing Photoshop tools and technique to create digital works of art. Topics covered will include basic photo correction, selections, filters, color adjustments, masks, and layers. Instruction will include both demos and one-on-one guidance.

Computer Art II:  (prerequisite: Computer Art)  Students in this course will design subjective and objective composites, based on personal observation, through experimentation with opacity, blending modes, and advanced layer options to create digital works of art.    

Graphic Design: This introductory course will investigate the qualities of good design and composition through exploration of design and advertising strategies, logo design, package design, print advertising, and television/radio/newspaper advertisement. Exposure to and use of multiple software programs including Adobe Photoshop CS2 as well as hand drawn techniques will be used for projects. 

YEARLONG COURSES

Yearbook:  MAY COUNT FOR COMPUTER CREDIT OR VISUAL ART CREDIT
Prerequisites: approval from the Art Department

Students will be actively involved in conceptualizing, designing, and producing the school yearbook. Interest in design and layout, desktop publishing, technology, and the use of Adobe CS2 software are essential components of the course.  Consistency, attention to details, and knowledge of design elements are important for creating layouts. Creativity is encouraged. Additional opportunities include writing and photography.

Honors Art
Prerequisites: at least one upper school art course, approval from the Art Department

Honors Art is a yearlong course for sophomores and juniors who are both interested and capable in visual art. It is a fast paced class in preparation for AP studio art.  The purpose of this class is to create the breadth section of the AP portfolio.  Students will be required to submit a finished work every two weeks, keep a sketchbook, and write reflections on the art making process. We will explore different media combinations, styles and techniques of art making with a strong emphasis on independent work.  

AP Studio Art
Prerequisites: Honors Art, approval from the Art Department

AP Studio Art must be taken as a yearlong course during the Senior Year.  There is a tremendous amount of work, thought, and effort that goes into creating an AP portfolio.  Students will be required to keep a sketchbook and complete a project every two weeks. Projects will be assigned during breaks and vacations, in order to have 24 complete artworks in May. All students enrolled must submit a portfolio to the College Board.

Upper School Curriculum

Other Information