Visual Arts
Visual Arts Beginning
Prerequisite: None
Students will experience 2D media, such as drawing, painting, and design, and basic 3D media. Using the elements of art and
principles of design, they will complete technique assignments and create their own work. Students will learn to analyze visual
images, critique their own artwork and the artwork of others, and write short essays about a variety of visual art topics while
studying the basics of Art History.
Visual Arts Intermediate
Prerequisite: Mastery of Beginning Visual Arts
Students will learn to use more sophisticated techniques as they complete projects using 2D and 3D media. Assigned projects will
develop the students' artistic problem solving abilities and call upon them to use their use their design skills with greater
inventiveness. Written work focuses on art criticism, topics in art history, and aesthetic awareness.
Visual Arts Proficient
Prerequisite: Mastery of Intermediate Visual Arts
Students will begin building a portfolio of their work using a variety of media. In building a portfolio students create work
that demonstrates their increasing command of the elements of art and design principles and conveys a clear sense of their
developing personal style. Students will continue their study of art appreciation, criticism, and aesthetics. Students will also
study individual artists with the goal of analyzing how they reflect the historical conditions and arts trends of their time. This
course is an honors level course.
Visual Arts Advanced
Prerequisite: Mastery of Proficient Visual Arts
Students will work to assemble a high quality portfolio suitable for submission as part of an art school application. Students will
refine their artistic problem solving skills using a variety of media and techniques as they create 20 high quality works by the end
of the class. Students will also continue their study of contemporary art and should expect to spend time outside of class working
on their portfolios and completing written assignments. This course is an honors level course.
Visual Arts Specialization- Photography
Prerequisite: Mastery of Beginning Visual Arts
This course introduces students to photography as an important art form, from its beginnings in the 1800’s to today. Students will
learn how to use 35mm cameras, develop film, and make prints using traditional black and white darkroom techniques. Students
will also use digital photography and software programs that enhance the art.
* Additional Visual Arts Specialization courses may be offered at individual schools. Please see your Visual Arts Teacher for additional course
selections.
AP Studio Art Drawing / AP Studio Art: 2D Design / AP Studio Art: 3D Design
Prerequisite: Although there is no prerequisite for AP Studio Art, prior experiences in studio art courses that address
conceptual, technical, and critical thinking skills
The AP Program offers three studio art courses and portfolios: Two-Dimensional Design, Three-Dimensional Design, and
Drawing. The AP Studio Art portfolios are designed for students who are seriously interested in the practical experience of art.