Art

Visual Arts I - 5 credits

 The purpose of this course is to provide a basic foundation in the understanding of art with explorations in design, painting, sculpture, drawing, pottery, printmaking, art history, and art criticism. Learn how to visually express yourself and understand what other artists are saying. It is a course for everyone, not just those who think they have talent. No prerequisite. Open to students in 9,10,11 and 12 grades.

Visual Arts II - 5 credits

 Visual Arts II is an extension of the basic Art I course. Work in design, drawing, painting, pottery, sculpture, printmaking, art history, and art criticism is pursued on a broader and deeper level providing opportunities for success and satisfying accomplishment for both casually interested and the career-minded individual. Visual Arts I is a prerequisite.

Visual Arts III - 5 credits

 Creative thinking, problem solving, and in-depth study in specific media of interest make up this course for the advanced student who wants to explore the role of art in his/her life. This exploration will seek to define the individual's interests and creative capabilities through serious, intensive efforts to achieve a high level of craftsmanship. A sketchbook/journal is required as part of this course and a personal portfolio is possible. Visual Arts II is a prerequisite.

Crafts - 5 credits

 Crafts provides students with the opportunity to work in a variety of contemporary applied art areas such as jewelry making, pottery, paper decoration, bookmaking, fabric decoration, and fibers to name a few. Emphasis on the study of design principles will provide a foundation for the many incredible things you will make. No prerequisite. Open to all grades.

Photography I - 5 credits

 
This course provides the student with basic mechanics of camera operation, film development, print enlargement and lighting. Projects will include lessons in the basics plus assignments which will give the student opportunities to take pictures which express his interest attitudes and feelings. Some work outside of school will be required. Course open to all grades.

Digital Photography - 5 credits

Digital Photography I will provide a foundation in the fundamental skills and techniques of digital photography, including the use of a digital camera as well as the use of Photoshop to retouch, enhance, and manipulate images. Emphasis will be on photography as an art form as students learn the basic technical skills and design principals necessary to create unique works of digital art in a "hands on" studio environment. This course will also examine the history of photography, correct print evaluation criteria, image interpretation, and the methods and procedures of studio photography.

Communications/Graphic Design - 5 credits

 This course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to explore the communication skills applicable to the print media including magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and the like. An investigation of the psychology of visual perception will help the graphic art student to understand how a person organizes visual elements when looking at pictures so that he can create designs that the viewer will understand. Previous art experience is not required since the basis of the course is founded in basic design concepts. Course open to all students in grades 9-12.

Technical Drawing - 5 Credits

This course is designed to meet the District Technology Standards. Technical Drawing is a form of written and graphic communication that combines art with technology. This course is intended to develop and enhance the student's ability to create 2D and 3D-based computer-generated illustrations for a broad range of industries and purposes. Emphasis will be placed on fundamental drawing principles, proficiency in using the computer as the medium, and aesthetic qualities of final illustrations.