Foundations of Art - 1 semester Prerequisite: None This course will revisit the elements and principles of design by working on a variety of two-dimensional & three-dimensional projects. These projects will help the student experience a taste of many different art techniques. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. Students will develop basic art skills and concepts which can be used as a basis for future art classes at GHS as well as applied creative problems in everyday life. $5 for the purchase of a sketchbook, which will be available in class. Any additional costs will depend upon the projects selected by the student. AP Art History 2 semesters Prerequisite: None This course is for a mature student with a strong interest in the history of art. This foundation of knowledge will set students within the context of art making. This course will study works from Greek and Roman times through contemporary artists. A variety of different types of art will be discussed including architecture, sculpture, painting and other media. Students will analyze and identify art from many different perspectives and ultimately have the option to take the AP Art History test. Students will develop a deep understanding of art from the past and the present, and use this knowledge to earn Advanced Placement College Credit in Art History. Student will be required to pay the fee to take the AP Art History test, if the class is taken for AP Credit.
Drawing I - 1 semester Prerequisites: Foundations of Art OR Junior or Senior Standing *Juniors & seniors who have not taken Foundations may not go on to Drawing II & III Students will develop a better understanding of drawing techniques as well as experiment with a variety of drawing mediums such as: pencils, charcoal, pastels, oil pastels, pen & ink and markers. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. Students will expand on drawing techniques studied in foundations and be encouraged to think creatively and build observational skills to improve hyper-perceptive observational and drawing skills. $5 for the purchase of a sketchbook (previous art department sketchbook acceptable), which will be available in class. Any additional costs will depend upon the projects selected by the student. Drawing II - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art and Drawing I Study will focus on drawing the human form while exploring new styles of drawing. Student will be expected to combine well crafted drawings with creative thinking skills to solve challenging visual problems. Some of the media used may include pen and ink, charcoal, graphite, colored pencil, pastel and marker. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. Students will further advance their understanding and ability to draw using various techniques, media, and creative thinking skills. $5 for the purchase of a sketchbook (previous art department sketchbook acceptable), which will be available in class. Additional costs will depend upon the projects selected by the student.
Drawing III - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art, Drawing I and II This course is for a mature student with a strong interest in art and drawing. Work will require self-motivation and strong creative thinking skills. In this course the student will be exploring new types of drawing as well as further developing craftsmanship and personal drawing style. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. Student will develop a masterful understanding of drawing with any media and a strong ability to think creatively and apply ideas in a meaningful way. $5 for the purchase of a sketchbook (previous art department sketchbook acceptable), which will be available in class. Any additional costs will depend upon the projects selected by the student. Painting I - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art OR Junior or Senior Standing *Juniors & seniors who have not taken Foundations may not go on to Painting II & III The student will focus on developing a basic understanding of painting techniques and how to use tools such as a pallet knife and various types of bristle brushes. The course investigates primarily acrylic paint, but some classes may also explore watercolor if time allows. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. The student will build understanding and the ability to paint using various techniques, media, and creative thinking skills. $5 for the purchase of a sketchbook (previous art department sketchbook acceptable), which will be available in class. Also an additional $15-$30 is required for brushes and optional paint, also available in class. Any additional costs will depend upon the projects selected by the student.
Painting II - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art and Painting I In this course the student will continue to explore different types of painting, and learn advanced techniques for creating dynamic compositions. Students may work with tempera, acrylic, latex, oil, watercolor, spray paint or mixed media. Painting subjects will include abstraction, landscape, still life, and portraiture. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. The student will further advance knowledge, skills, and understanding of painting techniques and media. Supplies from Painting I, $5 for the purchase of a sketchbook (previous art department sketchbook acceptable). Any additional costs will depend on the projects selected by the student. Painting III - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art, Painting I and II This course is for a mature student with a strong interest in art and painting. Work will require self-motivation and strong creative thinking skills. Painting subjects will vary depending on students interests and will be tailored by the teacher for each project. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. Student will develop a masterful understanding of painting in various styles along with strong ability to think creatively and apply ideas in a meaningful way. Supplies from Painting I, $5 for the purchase of a sketchbook (previous art department sketchbook acceptable). Additional costs will depend on the projects selected by the student.
Ceramics I - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art OR Junior or Senior Standing *Juniors & seniors who have not taken Foundations may not go on to Ceramics II & III Students will study the basics of building things with clay and how to solve the technical and design problems that accompany working in 3D. This course will focus on hand-building techniques and the proper use of tools and equipment specific to ceramics. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. Student will develop understanding and skills as applied to clay while creating 3D structures with a variety of techniques exercising creative thinking skills. $12.00 fee per 25 pounds of clay. Glazes and firing included in the course. Ceramics II - 1 semester Prerequisites: Foundations of Art and Ceramics I This course will focus on learning to throw pots on the potter s wheel. Students will create a series of vessels with different themes and functions. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. The student will develop knowledge, skills, and understanding of clay as it is formed on a potter s wheel. $12.00 fee per 25 pounds of clay. Glazes and firing included in the course.
Ceramics III - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art, Ceramics I and II This course is for a mature student with a strong interest in art and ceramics. Work will require self-motivation and strong creative thinking skills. Student will specialize in specific body of work and design projects to meet the instructor s criteria. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. Students will develop a masterful understanding and in-depth knowledge of ceramics and 3D forms. Students will broaden ability to effectively use art history, analysis, creative thinking, and evaluation to improve and create works of sophistication. $12.00 fee per 25 pounds of clay. Glazes and firing included in the course. Art Metals I - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art OR Junior or Senior Standing *Juniors & seniors who have not taken Foundations may not go on to Art Metals II & III Students will learn the basics of working with non-ferrous metal and how to solve the technical and design problems that accompany working in 3D. Students will investigate skills and techniques using brass, copper, nickel metals, hard soldering, texturing and patinas as well as the proper use of tools and equipment. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. Student will build understanding and ability to create with metal while building 3D structures with a variety of techniques, applying creative thinking skills. Expect to spend $5.00-$20.00 for additional saw blades and other miscellaneous materials.
Art Metals II - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art and Art Metals I Students will focus on metal forming and finishing techniques such as forging, etching, raising sheet metal, building structures with sheet metal and advanced hammering techniques. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. Students will further advance knowledge, skills, and understanding of metal techniques and 3D media. Expect to spend $5.00-$20.00 for additional saw blades and other miscellaneous materials. Additional costs will depend on the projects selected by the student. Art Metals III - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art, Art Metals I and II This course is designed for a mature student with a strong interest in art and metals. Work will require self-motivation and strong creative thinking skills. Student will focus on metal forming and finishing techniques such as casting, stone setting, forging, etching, raising and constructing sheet metal and the advanced use of art metal technologies. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. The student will develop a masterful understanding and skill, in-depth knowledge of metals and 3D forms. Students will broaden ability to effectively use art history, analysis, creative thinking, and evaluation to improve and create works of sophistication. Expect to spend $5.00-$20.00 for additional saw blades and other miscellaneous materials. Additional costs will depend on the projects selected by the student.
Photography I - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art OR Junior or Senior Standing Students will be taking black and white and color photos using a digital camera. You will learn about basic digital camera control, flash, and the relationship between shutter speed, aperture & ISO. Class will also discuss the elements of photographic composition and learn to edit, organize and publish digital photos using Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. Student will build understanding of photography as an art form and build ability to take and edit digital photographs using various techniques and creative thinking skills. Students must purchase a camera card of 16G or larger, and a card reader. Both are available at Costco, Best Buy, Walgreens or CVS. Any photos printed must be paid for by the student. Photo costs range from $0.13(4x6in) - $8.99(20x30in). NOTE: It is preferred that students SUPPLY THEIR OWN DIGITAL CAMERA. THE CAMERA MUST BE SIX MEGA PIXELS OR HIGHER, HAVE A MANUAL MODE, AND BE EQUIPPED WITH A FLASH TERMINAL. DIGITAL SLR (removable lens) CAMERAS ARE REQUIRED. The art department owns 9 digital SLR camera kits (thanks to GEF). Students wishing to rent a camera kit will be charged a $50 per semester rental fee (first come, first serve) and parents are asked to sign a waiver of replacement in the event the camera or other supplies are lost or damaged.
Photography II - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art and Photography I This course is for a mature student with a strong interest in art and photography. Work will require self-motivation and strong creative thinking skills. Class will focus on advanced digital camera and computer editing techniques. Digital tinting, double digital exposures, bulb setting, tilt shift photography, digital photo transfers, digital collages and other techniques may be explored. Advanced Adobe Photoshop training will be covered. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. Some classes may also have the opportunity to shoot and process analog film. Manual film cameras will not be required. Students will develop a masterful understanding of photography and a strong ability to think creatively and apply your ideas in a meaningful way. Students must purchase a camera card of 16G or larger (approximately $18.50 at Costco), and a card reader (approximately $10.00). Most are available at Costco, Best Buy, Walgreens, CVS and in class. Any photos printed must be paid for by the student. Photo costs range from $0.13(4x6in) - $8.99(20x30in). NOTE: It is preferred that students SUPPLY THEIR OWN DIGITAL CAMERA. THE CAMERA MUST BE SIX MEGA PIXELS OR HIGHER, HAVE A MANUAL MODE, AND BE EQUIPPED WITH A FLASH TERMINAL. DIGITAL SLR (removable lens) CAMERAS ARE REQUIRED. The art department owns 9 digital SLR camera kits (thanks to GEF). Students wishing to rent a camera kit will be charged a $50 per semester rental fee (first come, first serve) and parents are asked to sign a waiver of replacement in the event the camera or other supplies are lost or damaged.
Graphic Design I - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art OR Sophomore through Senior Standing Students will be exploring the tools, techniques, terms, and projects that designers work with every day. Class will learn the basics of Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator, as well as how to develop a concept from sketches to a polished design. Creative thinking and problem solving will be emphasized within this class. Projects may include the design of things such as logos, posters, book jackets, albums, business cards, letterhead, billboards, T-shirts, advertisements, vector illustration and digital photo editing. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. Students will understand the design industry as a whole and be able to effectively use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator for a variety of purposes. Any costs will depend on the projects selected by the student. Graphic Design II - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art and Graphic Design I This course is for a mature student with a strong interest in art and graphic design. Work will require self-motivation, team work and strong creative thinking skills. You will build upon the knowledge and skills that you learned in Graphic Design I. Class will use advanced understanding of design to brainstorm, research, test, market, brand, package, display, promote and prototype a product or service from start to finish. The class will also work together to build and brand a retail environment and sell their products to consumers. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. The student will develop a masterful understanding of the processes and techniques used by the design industry. The class will use this knowledge to develop a product from ideation to retail using computer skills, market testing and creative problem solving. The cost of this class will depend on the product selected by the student.
Exploration of 2-Dimensional Media - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art and Drawing I Students will be exploring the use traditional and non-traditional 2D media/materials, primarily not covered in other art classes. In addition to expanding their knowledge of drawing and design, class will explore alternative processes such as fibers, collage, image transfer, printmaking and mixed media. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. Student will develop and build upon understanding of 2D media techniques learned in Foundations and Drawing I and be encouraged to experiment with new materials and techniques to expand skill set with 2D media. Any costs will depend on the projects selected by the student. Exploration of 3-Dimensional Media - 1 semester Prerequisite: Foundations of Art and Ceramics I or Art Metals I This course is for a mature student with a strong interest in art and graphic design. Work will require self-motivation and strong creative thinking skills. The specific projects will be designed by the teacher for the student and will focus on 3D art forms not covered in other art classes. Investigations may include wood carving, stained glass, mixed media sculpture, fiber sculpture, metal sculpture, installation art and other contemporary art forms. The care, safety, and proper use of tools and equipment to be used in the creation of 3D media will be addressed. The student will also be exposed to new artists and historical references in this class as well as further the development of personal ideas and artistic themes. Student will build upon understanding of 3D media techniques learned in ceramics or art metals and encourage you to experiment with new materials and techniques to expand skill set with 3D media. Any costs will depend on the projects selected by the student.
AP Art Studio - 1 or 2 semesters Prerequisite: Foundations of Art, Minimum of 3 additional Art Classes, Junior or Senior Standing and Teacher Recommendation - All AP students must have teacher signature on their course registration form. This course is for a mature student who has maintained a strong interest in art and design. Work will require a high level self motivation and a level of dedication beyond that of previous art classes. AP Art Studio will guide you to develop and refine your personal esthetic as well explore new media and techniques. During this process you will develop a portfolio of work that fulfills the AP Board requirements in the areas of quality, concentration and breadth. The portfolios may be in 2D, 3D or Drawing. Prompts, resources, critiques and weekly reviews of your work will be structured into the course, allowing creative freedom to explore, while having benchmarks and deadlines to keep you on task. Student will develop personal style and artistic pursuits toward a sophisticated portfolio of work, worthy of Advanced Placement college credit. Student will be required to pay the fee to submit a portfolio to the AP board of review. Additional costs will depend on the projects selected by the student. Independent Study - 1 or 2 semesters Prerequisite: All of the following: Foundations of Art, Minimum of 3 Art Classes, Junior or Senior Standing and Teacher Recommendation This course is design for the very mature art student with special interest in a particular field of art, and has exhausted the course curriculum, (i.e. taken all of the graphic design or metals classes), but wishes to continue further investigation in a particular medium. This class could help prepare pieces for portfolio college entrance or personal development. Student will build technical skill level and understanding of a specific area of art, for use in future personal, educational or professional endeavors. Sketchbook ($5) from department. Any other costs will depend on the projects selected by the student.