Middle and High School Art

Sculpture 1 & 11

This course focuses on the creation of three-dimensional art forms.  Course topics include both figurative and abstract sculpture.  A variety of three-dimensional material will be explored including plaster, wood, metal, mixed media, video, paper and various other materials.  Students will be expected to research contemporary artists, visit art galleries, and participate in group discussions and critiques.  This class will explore collaborative projects as well as installation and on-site specific works.

Ceramics I

Studio Art course introducing the fundamentals in hand building techniques through various projects which emphasize technical technique, textures and elements of design, creativity, and problem-solving methods giving the student a working knowledge of clay. Includes demonstrations, lectures, vocabulary, critiques, slides, beginning glaze work, and introduction to basic kiln and firing methods.

Ceramics II

Projects in this class are divided between hand building techniques and an introduction to the potter’s wheel. Hand building projects deal with sculptural aspects of functional pottery as well as non-objective forms.  Ceramics as a Contemporary art form will be discussed.  Emphasis is on composition, techniques, surface treatment, and advanced ideas in glaze work.   Assignments are fewer yet larger and more complex than Ceramics I.  Students are asked to plan and sketch all ideas before beginning projects. Introduction to the potter’s wheel will teach basic setup, handling of equipment and tools, centering, beginning throwing techniques, care of pottery and surface treatment of pots.

Ceramics III/IV

Ceramics 3 & 4 is designed for the advanced artist.  Content of the course includes the production of functional and sculptural pieces.  The history of ceramics as well as an introduction to contemporary artists is included in the syllabus.  The knowledge of kilns and firing techniques and advanced level of potters wheel and hand building concepts will be a focus of this class. Group projects and an introduction to public art works and installation sculpture will be a part of this course.  Students will be expected to enter an area art contest and learn the professional presentation of their work, including slide taking and writing an artist statement and resume.

Portfolio I & II

This class is designed for highly motivated students who are seriously interested in the study and practice of art.  This course presents the creative activity both conceptually and thematically, with an interdisciplinary, experimental and multicultural focus.  This class maintains a studio emphasis but will include reading, writing, presentations and discussion.  Class time will include a variety of in-class assignments and longer-term projects.  A review or critique will follow each assignment.  Keeping a sketchbook/journal is required and will be graded at the midterm and final week of class.

Middle School Art 3-D

The formal elements of 3-D art are the major focus of this class as students explore different mediums including clay, plaster, wood and paper.  Students become familiar with art materials and techniques and develop a visual vocabulary with which to view, discuss, and create works of art.