Visual Arts
Department goals
We align lessons to create safe, dynamic and relevant learning environments that inspire critical thinking, problem solving and innovation in the Arts that can be used across the curriculum.
Art Staff
Becky Hopkins: Art 1, Drawing & Painting (1-3), AP Drawing, Sculpture
Erik Torres: Photo 1 & 2, Multimedia (1-3)
Cera Renault: Art 1, Crafts (1-3)
Course Offerings
Art 1:
Art 1 is an introductory course that introduces students to the elements and principles of art, and provides opportunities to create original art. The course typically covers a variety of art forms, including: Drawing, Painting, Printmaking, Sculpting, Design, Crafts, Photography, and Graphics. Students are expected to use their class time wisely, participate in all activities, and follow school rules. They are also expected to develop skills through practice and not be expected to be accomplished artists upon entering the class.
Photo 1:
Photo 1 course covers the basics of photography, including camera operation, and digital photography: Students learn how to use a camera, including its basic parts and functions. They may also learn about the mechanics and physics of different types of cameras.
Photo 2:
Photo 2, or Digital Photography 2, is a course that builds on the skills students learn in Photo 1, or Digital Photography 1.
Crafts 1:
Studio Crafts courses teach students a variety of crafting techniques and skills in an artist's studio. Students will work with a variety of materials, including clay, glass, fiber, metal, wood, and paper. Students will learn about the significance of Western and non-Western cultures in relation to art and design.
Crafts 2:
Advanced Studio Crafts builds and expands on skills previously learned, and allows for students to learn and create independently to allow for artistic development and growth. Please see previous description.
Drawing/Painting 1:
This course is designed for students to explore the fundamental techniques and concepts of drawing and painting. Through a variety of media—including pencil, charcoal, acrylic, and watercolor—students will develop their artistic skills while fostering personal expression and creativity. Emphasis will be placed on the principles of design, composition, color theory, and observational drawing.
Drawing/Painting 2:
Advanced Drawing/Painting builds upon the previous course with greater emphasis on creative voice and student choice.
A/P Drawing:
The AP Drawing course is an intensive, college-level program designed for students who are serious about developing their drawing skills and artistic voice. This course emphasizes a variety of drawing techniques and approaches, encouraging students to explore both traditional and contemporary methods. Students will create a cohesive portfolio that demonstrates their technical proficiency, creativity, and personal expression, culminating in an AP portfolio submission.
Sculpture:
This course introduces students to the world of three-dimensional art through the exploration of various sculptural techniques and materials. Students will engage in hands-on projects that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Emphasis will be placed on understanding form, space, and the relationship between the sculpture and its environment.
Multimedia 1:
This course offers students the opportunity to explore the diverse and dynamic world of multimedia art. Combining traditional art techniques with digital technology, students will create original works that incorporate various media, including photography, video, sound, and digital graphics. Emphasis will be placed on the creative process, experimentation, and the integration of different artistic forms.
Multimedia 2:
Building on the foundational skills acquired in Multimedia 1, this advanced course dives deeper into the complexities of multimedia art creation. Students will refine their technical abilities and expand their creative exploration by engaging in more sophisticated projects that incorporate a wide range of media, including advanced digital tools, video production, sound design, and interactive media. Emphasis will be placed on developing a personal artistic style and exploring the conceptual underpinnings of multimedia art.