Spotlight on the visual arts

The Middle School visual arts program offers sixth-grade students a quarter class devoted to various art mediums. Seventh- and eighth-grade students rotate opposite physical education every other day, resulting in a four-and-one-half week study of art fundamentals. The Upper School visual arts program includes drawing, painting, photography, ceramics, and art history.

Studio art 1 and studio art 2 are offered as a full-year elective course on a semester basis. Studio art 3 and studio art 4 are offered to complete the fine arts requirement for track students. Honors portfolio provides the year-long opportunity for students to prepare a portfolio for college application. AP portfolio is presently offered to students by teacher recommendation as a full-year elective course to be evaluated on the national level for college credit.

Photography is currently offered as a semester course focusing on basic darkroom techniques.

Ceramics 1 through 6 are offered as semester courses introducing the student to hand-building techniques and progressing to wheel throwing. Firing and glazing methods are also presented. Advanced ceramics 1 and advanced ceramics 2 give the students an opportunity to prepare a portfolio for college application.

Art history is offered as a semester class designed to meet graduation requirements. AP art history is a year-long class to be evaluated on the national level for college credit.