Art

The art curriculum employs the DBAE (Discipline Based Art Education) model, but not exclusively. Although the principals of art criticism, production, art history, and aesthetic awareness are employed in all grades, priority is placed on the creative development of each individual student.

Working together in groups on community art projects such as large scale murals, gallery openings, sculptures, and play set designs are equally important components of the art curriculum. Emphasis is placed on art “process” rather than “product.” Each student is assessed on the effort put into each assignment and participation.
All students in grades five through eight are required to participate in the art program.

Fifth Grade Art Program

The fifth grade art program is designed to expose students to a wide variety of art mediums. Throughout the year, students explore basic elements of design including collage, painting, and sculpture. The foundation of the design unit is based on three-dimensional textured mobiles using many different mediums to create form, pattern, color, and texture. Clay design, the use of positive and negative space, creative techniques with color and composition are also employed into the course. An important part of art class is based on interdisciplinary curriculum integration.

Sixth Grade Art Program

The sixth grade art program focuses on two-dimensional design and color theory. Among the various principles taught during the school year, students learn to recognize principles of color including harmony, saturation, tone, tint, and hue. Students have an introductory unit on expressionist artists as well as impressionist and primitive paintings. The study of the human figures as well as proportion and movement are also explored. Animal sketches and drawing techniques introduce the basic fundamentals of drawing including line, value composition, and design.

Seventh Grade Art Program

The seventh grade art program includes units on creative design and composition. Clay sculpture, one and two-point perspective and three-dimensional design make up the basis for medium exploration. An illustrated children’s poem introduces creative writing techniques into the curriculum. A unit on personal art preference is introduced in a painted rendition of a project featuring a favorite artist. Art critique is used to express one’s likes and dislikes in a positive manner.

Eighth Grade Art Program

The eighth grade art program includes units on advanced creative design and composition. Portrait drawing, perspective, clay sculpture, and still life painting are various units of study. Projects in multicultural art allow students to gain greater knowledge of different techniques and mediums used throughout the world. A community mural is created, which includes pencil sketches, brainstorming, and group cooperation. Positive critiquing of final projects is implemented in all course studies.