Art Courses
The art courses offered at Westbrook High School appeal to the needs of not only the serious art student but to the interested student who enjoys the process of creating and self-expression. Those students possessing artistic skills will have the opportunity to further expand, develop, and refine their natural abilities to seriously pursue art as an avocation or a career. Those students, who may not believe they are artistically talented, but possess a genuine interest in the subject, will be given the opportunity to develop new skills that will enrich their perception and appreciation of the world around them.
Those students planning to pursue art-related careers are strongly encouraged to take at least three years of art so that they will have sufficient time to develop their portfolios, a requirement for entrance into most art schools and universities.
601930: Art Expressions (both semesters)
Art Expression is an introductory level course for all interested in art. Basic concepts will be covered, such as subject matter, various media, and the elements and principles of art and design. This course will be the prerequisite of all art courses at the Westbrook High as it will instill problem-solving, creative expression, and the foundation for technical skill development.
Prerequisite: None
Credit: ½
Grades: predominantly freshman; open to 9-12
Length: 1 semester
Weight: 1.0
601931: Drawing (semester 1)
This course emphasizes technical skills in drawing. Drawing is a fundamental skill in art. This course will explore various media as well as different skills, composition, and subject matter. Art history, art criticism, and aesthetics will be incorporated with this course. Students are required to keep a sketchbook to complete class and homework assignments.
Prerequisite: None
Credit: ½
Grades: 9-12
Length: 1 semester
Weight: 1.0
601932: Painting (semester 2)
Students will continue to explore 2D art through various painting media and techniques. Various subject matters will be explored including still life objects, portraits, and landscapes. Art history, art criticism, and aesthetics will be incorporated with this course. Students are required to keep a sketchbook to complete class and homework assignments.
Prerequisite: None
Credit: ½
Grades: 9-12
Length: 1 semester
Weight: 1.0
601923: Darkroom Photography (semester 1)
This course is an introduction to photography with a focus on darkroom photographic practices. Students will learn about art criticism, composition, film camera functions, exposure, and darkroom processes. Art history, art criticism, and aesthetics will be incorporated with this course. Students are required to keep a sketchbook to complete class and homework assignments.
Prerequisite: None
Credit: ½
Grades: 9-12
Length: 1 semester
Weight: 1.0
601924: Digital Photography (semester 2)
This course is a continuation of learning about the art of photography. The focus of this course is on digital photography applications using Adobe Photoshop, Camera Raw, Bridge, and Lightroom. Various technical and compositional techniques will be explored. Art history, art criticism, and aesthetics will be incorporated with this course. Students are required to keep a sketchbook to complete class and homework assignments.
Prerequisite: None
Credit: ½
Grades: 9-12
Length: 1 semester
Weight: 1.0
601933: Sculpture (semester 1)
This course is an introduction to sculpture. Students will learn basic techniques in clay, wire, stone, and found object assemblage. Art history, art criticism, and aesthetics will be incorporated with this course. Students are required to keep a sketchbook to complete class and homework assignments.
Prerequisite: None
Credit: ½
Grades: 9-12
Length: 1 semester
Weight: 1.0
601934: Ceramics (semester 2)
This course is an introduction to ceramics. Students will learn basic techniques in clay. Students will be introduced to ceramic techniques of hand building, wheel throwing, and various glazing techniques. Art history, art criticism, and aesthetics will be incorporated with this course. Students are required to keep a sketchbook to complete class and homework assignments.
Prerequisite: None
Credit: ½
Grades: 9-12
Length: 1 semester
Weight: 1.0
601941: Advanced Studio Art/ Portfolio Development (full year)
This course is designed for students planning to pursue fine arts in college. The students will be developing and refining a body of work to present to art schools which represents the best of their capabilities, their personal creative style, and their interests in a future art career. Art history, art criticism, and aesthetics will be incorporated with this course. Students are required to keep a sketchbook to complete class and homework assignments.
Prerequisite: 85 or higher in any art courses (2D or 3D Art), at least 3 semesters of art courses/permission of instructor
Credit: 1
Grades: 11-12
Length: Full Year
Weight: 1.0
