Fine Arts
The Fine Arts curriculum builds self –esteem, encourages personal initiative and teaches the importance of working together. All of the Fine Art disciplines stress an understanding of other cultures and eras and seek to build a connection with other academic courses. Students will be able to communicate proficiently in at least one art form, including the ability to define and solve artistic problems with insight, reason, and technical proficiency. Students will be able to develop and present a basic analysis of art works including the ability to understand and evaluate work in the various arts disciplines. Students will have an informed basic understanding of historical development in the arts disciplines, across the arts as a whole, and within cultures. Our students will also be able to relate various types of art knowledge and skills within and across disciplines.
Visual Art
Drawing and Design
1 semester- 1/2 credit
This course is designed to improve drawing techniques, compositional skills, and visual conception. Gesture drawing, perspective, caricatures, illusion, and expressionism are among the topics explored. Graphite and ink are the primary media used.
Art and Biology (required in 9th grade unless enrolled in Choir)
1 semester- 1/2 credit
Art and Biology is a required ninth grade course which integrates biological concepts wit the fundamentals of art. This course brings together subject matter in a collaborative, integrated project based learning environment. It aims at teaching and reinforcing biological concepts while creating innovative bio-visual artworks. This is a course where science inspires art and art informs science.
Color and Design
1 semester- 1/2 credit
This course has a two-fold design: part drawing, and part emphasis on the development of ideas using a free mix of media, from colored pencil, pen and ink, and conte crayon, to pastels, acrylics, and watercolors. Our focus will be on the unique visual perception and way of placing images on paper, canvas, and fabric. Students will study images and color through still life, landscape, and the figure, and be challenges by subject matter ranging from realism to abstraction. Experimental techniques in mixed media will also be explored.
Textile Exploration
1 semester- 1/2 credit
There’s more to fabric printing and design than T-shirts! Screen printing, mono printing, sophisticated “tie-dye” processes, resist, hand painting, and stamping techniques are covered in this class in which students can expect to explore a variety of projects on fabric from silk scarves to woven wall hangings. Students gain experience in working with a range of design styles, with color theory an integral part of the course.
Ceramics
1 semester- 1/2 credit
Students explore the multi-faceted world of clay through a variety of forming, glazing, and firing techniques. Concentrated instruction will be given in hand-building techniques such as pinching, coiling (hand and extruded) and slab techniques. Students will also be introduced to wheel thrown ceramics and slay sculpture. Students will explore and experiment with a range of approaches to surface decoration such as the use of various glaze applications, and carving on pots.
Art and Technology
1 semester- 1/2 credit
Creating digital art on paper is the focus of this course. This is an introduction to the studio techniques used in creating computer art. Instruction covers creative thinking techniques, design concepts, aesthetics, and professional practices. We start with the basic concepts of creating and manipulating images using Adobe PhotoShop. Students also learn how to use the digital camera to produce images.
Jewelry
1 semester- 1/2 credit
To bead or not to bead...that is the question you must ask yourself before taking this class. Traditional and non-traditional beading processes and design applications will be explored through this course. Students will learn the various techniques associated with creating pieces of jewelry using beads, found objects, and miniature sculptures created from art clay. Students will also learn the process of bead weaving using a traditional bead loom.
Portfolio
Full year - 1 credit
This course is designed for the highly motivated art student who is ready to develop a concentration in art. This student will complete a series of works that are organized around a compelling visual concept and will also demonstrate a depth of investigation and process of discovery. Examples of concentrations might be an exploration of pattern and design found in nature of culture, a series of expressive landscapes based on personal experience of a particular place, abstractions developed from cells and other microscopic images, or a series of self-portraits with a specific theme. Recommended for juniors and seniors unless otherwise approved through a portfolio review.
Performing Arts
Concert Choir (9-12)
This performance-oriented course focuses on developing higher levels of musicianship, including proper vocal technique, sight reading, principles of melody, rhythm, harmony in 3, 4 and more parts, and music terminology. Students explore and experience how music reflects historical and cultural aspects of the past and present. Developing individual responsibility, collective accountability, and a lifelong appreciation of music are instrumental accompanists. This choir is open to all students in grades 9-12 and performs a repertoire from classical to pop. Attendance at all school concerts is required as well as choral festivals, competitions, and other performances outside of school. Solo and ensemble contest participation is also encouraged. Participation beyond one year is recommended for students demonstrating musical aptitude.
Private Lessons (9-12)
Offered through the Fine Arts Association at an additional cost: www.FineArtsAssociation.org
Private instruction is offered in any instrument that may be arranged at the Fine Arts Association located on the Willoughby Campus. Attendance at recitals and festivals is encouraged. Daily practice is required. Lessons take place outside of the school day and do not receive credit. Day students can arrange lessons directly by calling 440-951-7500. Boarding students can arrange lessons by contacting the Director of Residence Life.