Course Descriptions

 

651/2 Art Foundations 1-2
Open to all students
Prerequisite: none
1 semester / 1 credit
Art Foundations is an introductory studio course in which students gain exposure to the visual arts through a variety of two- and three-dimensional media. Emphasis will be placed on the elements and principles of design as they are directly applicable to projects and as they are observed in contemporary and historic cultures.
683 Fundamentals of Photography 1-2
Open to all students
Prerequisite: none
1 year / 2 credits
Students learn how to use a 35mm camera, how to develop film and how to make prints. Students provide their own camera, paper, and film.
678 History of Film
Open to all students
Prerequisite: none
1 semester / 1 credit
An introduction to the historical development of film as an art form, through the viewing/discussion/research of contemporary and classic American and European film in a variety of genres. Film structure, editing and cinematography are emphasized. Film as a social statement and as a reflection of cultural values is noted.
680 Art History
Open to all students
Prerequisite: none
Semester 1 only / 1 credit
In this class students will learn to identify styles, trends, and contributions artists have made throughout history by reviewing major works of art from prehistoric time to the 20th century. This course will break the boundaries of western art history and provide exposure to African- American, Hispanic, and Asian influences in the global history of art. A hands-on approach to art history will be taken, with students making art that connects to the time period and culture being studied. Research projects will supplement required reading.
660/2 Clay
Open to all students
Prerequisite: Art Foundation
1 semester / 1 credit
Ancient and contemporary pottery provides the core for study and production of hand-built and decorated clay forms. Students research, replicate and interpret in preparation of their own creative statement. This course will introduce the basic techniques of hand-building with emphasis on the sculptural possibilities of clay.
661/2 Wheelthrowing
Open to all students
Prerequisite: Art Foundations
1 semester / 1 credit
Basic form development and material exploration using the potter's wheel. Emphasis is on mastering basic techniques and exercising some aesthetic consideration. Specific assignments will focus on developing the essential skills in the production of wheel-thrown ceramic forms.
664 Jewelry/Metalworking
Open to all students
Prerequisite: Art Foundations
Semester 1 only / 1 credit
In this introductory course in jewelry/ metalworking, the student will gain exposure to the basic sheet metal construction techniques using copper and brass. After gaining proficiency in construction, soldering and finishing, more complex technical problems and stone setting will be introduced using sterling silver. Additional assignments will focus on silver casting using the lost wax technique. Students will gain knowledge of jewelry/metal design. Exploration will be encouraged while following specific assigned projects.
667 Painting
Open to all students
Prerequisite: Art Foundations
Semester 1 only / 1 credit
The students are introduced to a variety of techniques in acrylic painting through the use of the elements and principles of art. Styles and influences of the painting masters of the past and present are studied.
655/2 Drawing
Open to all students
Prerequisite: Art Foundations
1 semester / 1 credit
Introduction to the study of form and space on a two-dimensional surface, using various drawing techniques. Principles of visual organization and creative thinking are emphasized. Drawing media covered: pencils, ink, markers, conte, charcoal, graphite and pastels.
6762 Printmaking
Open to all students
Prerequisite: Art Foundations
Semester 2 only / 1 credit
A course introducing the creative side of image making. Students will build on their previous drawing experience using various techniques of printmaking. The printing processes to be explored are xerox transfer, relief printing, etching, lithography, collograph, monoprint and serigraphy. The course will familiarize students with the long tradition of the print.
685/2 Advanced Photography
Open to all students
Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Photography
1 semester / 1 credit
General introduction to developing communication skills through photography. Use of photographic tools, cameras and darkroom to bring out expressive qualities of the graphic image. Emphasis on visual communication as employed in contemporary media and graphic arts.
672/2 Graphic Design
Open to all students
Prerequisite: Art Foundations
1 semester / 1 credit
Develop and refine creative skills in combination with business and advertising. Training in multiple art skills includes package design, poster design, typography, layout, composition, color theory, corporate and personal logotypes, as well as learning to present graphic designs in a professional manner.
653/2 Introduction to Digital Imaging
Open to all students
Prerequisite: Art Foundations
1 semester / 1 credit
This digital imaging class introduces students to a wide range of the most current and relevant two-and three-dimensional imaging, graphic design and web design software. The class, which integrates the elements of art and hand-drawn ideas into every assignment, provides comprehensive computer art exposure to students interested in pursuing more specialized and advanced digital concepts and techniques.
654/2 Digital Imaging II
Open to all students
Prerequisite: Digital Imaging I or Graphic Design
1 semester  / 1 credit
The Digital Imaging II class is an advanced computer course for students who have taken Digital Imaging I or Graphic Design. This course challenges students to integrate their computer knowledge and fine arts experience with the power and capabilities of leading computer art software. Students will use hands-on techniques, and a wide range of software in the fields of visual communication (2 dimensional imaging, design and layout), web design, moving images (animation), and editing and rendering (image manipulation).
690/2 Advanced Placement Art Portfolio
Open to juniors, seniors
Prerequisite: Successful coursework in Art and Instructor's permission
1 semester  / 1 credit
Advanced Placement Portfolio is recommended for students who are considering entering art school or who are applying for entrance into a college or university as art major. Students work with an art faculty member who assists them in the selection, presentation, and focus of concentration of their work.
668 Advanced Studio Art
Open to juniors, seniors
Prerequisite: Art Foundations or equivalent, Instructor's permission
2 semesters  / 2 credits
This  course is designed for the serious student of the visual arts and will follow a course of study similar to AP Studio Art; however, students in this course will not be required to submit a portfolio to the College Board. This studio art course provides students the opportunity to develop their personal aesthetic through the guidance of the visual art faculty. The student goal for this course will be to develop an application portfolio which will be acceptable for art school/university entry requirements. The specific disciplines of study will be determined by the student and art faculty mentors. Each student will propose a plan of study, which will include a written statement of their goals and objectives and must have shown evidence of successful performance in other visual art classes.
948 Photo/Design Publication
Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors
Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Photography recommended
2 semesters / 1 credit per year (maximum of 2 may be counted toward graduation)
Photography students learn to work as a group collecting images and representing/documenting student and school events for the yearbook. The cooperative efforts of photographers, designers and writers for the production of Tabula provides a real working environment and an opportunity to practice collaborative problem-solving. Student selection by application.