Visual Arts

Art 1: Foundations

An entry-level course for students of all levels of art ability designed to teach students basic artmaking techniques, concepts, and skills, via the Elements of Art and Principles of Design. In this course, students will develop their own creative confidence to articulate their artistic voice through writing, creation, and verbal expression to justify their creative choices. We will explore how to use art to express thier ideas through a variety of materials, approaches, and techniques. Through the analysis of art, production of pieces, and building of technical skills students will develop expertise in creating, producing, performing, critiquing, connecting, and responding to art. In this course, we will examine the artistic and cultural practices of the global cultures/identities that are present in the East Side Union High School District and how their unique, rich contributions have shaped the fabric of our community.

 
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Art 2: Studio Crafts & Design

A second-level art course for intermediate students (10th, 11th, and 12th grade) who have taken the prerequisite entry-level art course.  This course is designed to teach students intermediate art-making techniques, concepts, and skills, expanding on prior knowledge of the Elements of Art and the Principles of Design; Students will design and create 2D and 3D works of art that are functional and non-functional utilizing art theory, design, and exploration of processes to expand their ideas through a variety of materials, approaches, and techniques.  In this course, students will further develop their creative confidence to articulate their artistic voice through writing, creation, and verbal expression to justify their creative choices.  Through the analysis of art, production of pieces, and building of technical skills students will expand their experience in creating, producing, performing, critiquing, connecting, and responding to art. In this course, we will continue to examine the artistic and cultural practices of the global cultures/identities that are present in the Eastside Union High School District and how their unique, and rich contributions have shaped the fabric of our community.

 
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Art 2: Drawing & Painting

A second-level art course for the intermediate art student (10th,11th and 2th grades) who have successfully completed the prerequisite entry-level art course. This course is designed to teach students intermediate art-making techniques, and concepts and to expand on their knowledge and practice of the Elements of Art and Principles of Design. Students will plan and create 2D works of art in wet and dry media exploring processes, materials, and techniques. In this course, students will build upon and further develop their creative confidence to express their artistic voice through artist statements,  critiques, and the creation of works, to explain their creative choices. Through the analysis of art, production of pieces, and building of technical skills students will expand their knowledge in creating, producing, critiquing, connecting, and responding to art. This course will continue to examine the artistic and cultural practices of the global cultures/identities who are present in the Eastside Union High School District and how their unique, and rich contributions have shaped the fabric of our community.


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Art 3: Int. Studio Crafts & Design

A third-level course for advanced students (11th and 12th grade) who have successfully completed the prerequisite course of Art 2: Studio Crafts and Design. This course is designed to teach students advanced art-making techniques, concepts, and skills showing mastery in their understanding and application of the Elements of Art and Principles of Design.  Students will design and create 2D and 3D works of art that are functional and non-functional employing art theory, exploratory processes, and mediums to investigate an essential question of their choosing. In this course, students will solidify their creative confidence to articulate their artistic voice through artist statements, and the creation of pieces and presentations to justify their creative choices.  Through the analysis of art production of pieces and further building of technical skills, students will expand their experience in creating, producing, performing, critiquing, connecting, and responding to art.

  In this course, we will continue to examine and express the artistic and cultural practices of the global cultures/identities that are present in the Eastside Union High School District and how their unique, and rich contributions have shaped the fabric of our community.

 
At a glance: 

Art 3: Int. Drawing & Painting

 A third-level course for students (11th and 12th grade) who have successfully completed the prerequisite course of Art 2: Drawing and Painting.  This course is designed to teach students advanced artmaking techniques, concepts, and skills to show mastery in their application and understanding of the Elements of Art and Principles of Design.  Students will create designs and create 2D works of art in wet and dry media exploring processes, materials, and techniques that explore a guiding question.  In this course, students will solidify and advance their creative confidence to express their artistic voice via artist statements, critiques, and the creation of a portfolio that is the response to their essential question.  Through analysis of artworks, exploration of techniques, and application of concepts to produce art pieces students will demonstrate advancing technical skills and knowledge in creating, producing, critiquing, connecting, and responding to art.

In this course, we will continue to examine and express the artistic and cultural practices of the global cultures/identities that are present in the Eastside Union High School District and how their unique, and rich contributions have shaped the fabric of our community.


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AP Drawing & Painting

AP Drawing & Painting is an advanced college-level course that adheres to the guidelines established by the College Board. This course offers students an opportunity to refine their skills in drawing and painting through a comprehensive exploration of various artistic elements and techniques.

Throughout the course, students will embark on a Sustained Investigation, which entails a guided artistic pursuit that holds personal significance to each student. The Sustained Investigation will focus on key aspects such as mark-making, line quality, composition, light and shadow, and surface manipulation.

Students will be evaluated not only on their completed artworks but also on their dedication to practice, experimentation, and revision. This emphasizes the importance of continual growth and development as artists.

Successful completion of Art 1 is a prerequisite for this course, while Drawing & Painting is highly recommended. AP Drawing & Painting fulfills the Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) requirement for A-G college admissions. The course is available for students in grades 10 to 12.

To excel in this rigorous course, students should anticipate dedicating an average of 10 hours per week outside of class to their artwork. Additionally, by successfully passing the AP exam, students have the potential to earn three college credits, providing them with a valuable head start on their academic journey.

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AP 2D Art & Design

Welcome to the world of AP 2D Design, an exhilarating class that delves into various fields within the dynamic industry of Art Communications. This course opens the door to a wide range of creative disciplines, including Graphic Design, Fashion, Illustration, Game Design, Interactive Design, Commercial Photography, Architecture, and more!

In this course, you will have the opportunity to create a professional art portfolio centered around a subject and art style of your choosing. This personalized approach allows you to explore your unique interests in the arts and nurture your creative vision.

Here are five key objectives of the AP 2D Design course:

1) Explore YOUR Interests in the Arts:

Unleash your imagination and dive into the artistic realms that intrigue you the most. Whether you are passionate about graphic design, fashion, illustration, or any other art form, this course provides a platform for you to explore your interests and develop your artistic voice.

2) Expand Your Knowledge of Art and Art Techniques:

Through engaging lessons, hands-on projects, and critical discussions, you will expand your understanding of art principles, techniques, and processes. You will learn to analyze and interpret visual art, experiment with various mediums and materials, and develop a deep appreciation for the diverse forms of artistic expression.

3) Fulfill Your Multimedia Magnet Pathway Requirements:

This course aligns with the requirements of the Multimedia Magnet Pathway, offering you a comprehensive educational experience in the field of Art Communications. By completing this course, you will gain valuable insights and skills that contribute to your pathway progression.

4) Prepare for the AP Exam and College Credit:

By enrolling in this AP course, you will have the opportunity to take the AP 2D Design exam. Scoring well on this exam can earn you college credit, which can be applied to your studies at a Junior College (JC) or University. This provides a head start in your academic journey and helps you stand out among your peers.

5) Have FUN!

Above all, this course is designed to be an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. You will have the freedom to unleash your creativity, explore new artistic horizons, and express yourself through your artwork. Embrace the joy of the creative process, collaborate with fellow artists, and embark on a transformative journey in the world of Art Communications.

Join us in AP 2D Design as we embark on an exciting exploration of art forms, techniques, and personal expression. Discover your passion, hone your skills, and create an art portfolio that showcases your unique artistic vision and potential.

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AP Art History

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of art through the AP Art History course. Spanning from the origins of civilization to the early 2000s, this course offers a comprehensive exploration of global art history. Students will delve into the analysis and interpretation of artworks, focusing on their content, form, function, and context. Through dynamic learning methods such as full class discussions, small group work, and innovative Flipped Classes, students will actively engage in the study of art. 

Additionally, this course presents an extraordinary opportunity to travel to Europe during Spring Break, where students will have the chance to study as many as 250 works of art in person, gaining invaluable experiential knowledge. With weekly homework assignments and unit tests, students will continually demonstrate their understanding of the course material. Furthermore, the option to resubmit homework for a higher score, with the two scores averaged, ensures that students have ample opportunities for growth and improvement. By the end of this rigorous course, students will be well-prepared to excel in the AP Art History exam, equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the rich tapestry of art history.

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