Visual Arts

ART FUNDAMENTALS

Students investigate the basic elements of design and principles of composition through a series of problem-solving processes.  Students improve their technical skills, while exploring a variety of media.  Equal emphasis is given to both process and product.  Basic components of each unit are:  Art History, Studio Production, Art Criticism and Aesthetics.  Creativity strategies challenge students to produce two and three-dimensional images which reflect critical thinking skills.

INTRODUCTION TO THE VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS  

This course is designed to provide a simultaneous overview of the visual and performing arts. Students will gain an understanding of the entire artistic process by which human nature is translated into music, visual art, and theatrical production.  The creative process will be explored as students develop the use of their imaginations and sensitivities in a hands-on environment.

IB ART STUDIO SL/HL  

As a complement to and an extension of the current Studio courses, this course focuses on the development of the personal portfolio and/or research workbook.  Emphasis is given to the elements of design and the principles of composition as well as a wide range of personal research and experimentation relevant to the student's aesthetic interests and technical skills.  A variety of media will be used.  Consistent and creative problem solving will be further enhanced by the development of critical thinking skills.  The IB student who is studying art at the Standard Level may choose either of two options. Standard Level A requires a personal show of 12 to 25 artworks accompanied by the artist's statement of direction which will be reviewed by an IB examiner.  Standard Level B requires 2 to 3 research workbooks with a focus on matters of substance, which will be assessed by the classroom instructor and the IB examiners.  IB students who wish to study art at the Higher Level must enroll in this course for two years and meet the requirements of both Standard Levels.

HONORS DRAWING  

Students develop creative solutions for two-dimensional problems, which incorporate a variety of respective techniques and materials directly related to the comprehensive study of drawing.  Students are challenged to develop their aesthetic awareness through careful observation, extensive experimentation and creative presentation in a series of problem-solving processes.  They work with a broad range of materials in an effort to enhance skill development.  Specific emphasis is given to personal and group assessment of portfolio work in order to promote critical thinking.  Students integrate artistic production with critical analyses as they relate the material to cultural, historical or social contexts. 

HONORS PAINTING  

 Students develop creative solutions for two-dimensional problems, which incorporate a variety of respective techniques and materials directly related to the comprehensive study of painting. Students are challenged to develop their aesthetic awareness through careful observation, extensive experimentation and creative presentation in a series of problem-solving processes.  They work with a broad range of materials in an effort to enhance skill development.  Specific emphasis is given to personal and group assessment of portfolio work in order to promote critical thinking.  Students integrate artistic production with critical analyses as they relate the material to cultural, historical or social contexts. 

HONORS CERAMICS AND SCULPTURE  

Students develop solutions for three-dimensional problems, which incorporate a variety of respective techniques and materials directly related to the comprehensive study of ceramics and sculpture.  Students are challenged to develop their aesthetic awareness through careful observation, extensive experimentation and creative presentation in a series of problem-solving processes.  They work with a broad range of materials in an effort to enhance skill development.  Specific emphasis is given to personal and group assessment of portfolio work in order to promote critical thinking.  Students integrate artistic production with critical analyses as they relate the material to cultural, historical or social contexts.  The intensive maintenance of Research Workbooks is a vital component of this course since it enhances portfolio development.