Ceramics 1, 2, or Advanced – Half year

Studio in ceramics is a skill-based course in which students will explore the three-dimensional visual world using clay as a medium for creative self-expression. The initial step in the ceramic process, which fosters creativity, is a computer based research assignment. Students have the freedom to develop their ideas by collecting ceramic images of current and historic clay works to then be interpreted in sketchbook form. These divergent drawings will be utilized as a foundation for the building process.

The two primary building methods that students will explore are hand building and throwing on the potters’ wheel, in the pursuit of utilitarian and sculpturally based art forms. Both aspects of ceramic construction are based on step-by-step learning and the mastery of each step or stage. Clay has a unique, primary property of being a direct feedback material. This means that when a student makes a mistake, since the clay is malleable it can be changed or modified in the process of building. It is our goal to make the student self-aware of any mistakes that may have been made. Then make the necessary adjustments in the pursuit of good craftsmanship. Following the completion of the building process students will learn about firing and glazing. The end goal of the J-D ceramic program is for students to gain the experience and appreciation in the creation of a hand-made object, which is personal and self-expressive.

Studio Art 1 – 1st semester only

This is a one-semester introduction to studio arts practices and theories. Topics covered include drawing skills and strategies, the elements and principles of art and design, materials and techniques, art history, aesthetics, art criticism, and contemporary art trends.

Studio Art 2 – 2nd semester only

Prerequisite: Studio Art 1

This course is designed to expand upon and refine the skills learned in Studio in Art 1. The focus will be on training the eye and hand to see and render more accurately and with more subtlety. Drawing and painting media will be explored in greater depth, and students will begin to explore avenues of individual interest.

Advanced Studio Art – Half year

Prerequisite: This course is designed for students who have completed both Studio Art 1 & 2.

Students will continue to refine observational and technical skills through traditional art media. Students will begin to create a portfolio of work that is organized around a central conceptual theme or themes. Student art portfolios are an essential requirement for any college-level study in visual arts, including fine arts, graphic design, industrial design, architecture, animation, fashion design, etc. Students in this course are expected to be independently motivated. This course may be repeated throughout the student’s high school career.

Photography 1 – 1st semester only

Photography 1 is an introduction to black and white film photography. This class covers the mechanics and techniques of using a 35-mm SLR camera, film processing and printing. Both the technical and aesthetic aspects of black and white photography are taught, including developing an understanding of composition, subject matter, lighting and the art of seeing. The class begins with a review of the history of photography and progresses through basic exercises that help familiarize students with the concept of capturing and processing an image on paper and film. Subsequent assignments build upon previously taught concepts to strengthen and further develop shooting and printing skills. Class critiques are held to create a deeper awareness and understanding of a student’s own and other’s work.

Photography 2 – 2nd semester only

Prerequisite: Photography I

This course is an extension of Photography 1, and assignments are given to expand student knowledge and mastery of camera skills. Students are expected to be proficient in previously learned concepts and are held accountable for the quality of their work. More complex technical skills are introduced and students experiment with deviations from standard black and white printing. The majority of this class will be working digitally and using both phones and DSLR’s to capture images. Through a variety of exercises and assignments, students will learn basic editing techniques using Lightroom and Photoshop software.

Advanced Photography – Half year

Prerequisite: This course is designed for students who have completed both Photography 1 & 2.

Advanced students are given assignments to further develop their digital camera and photo editing skills. Assignments will introduce them to a variety of camera and Photoshop techniques. Technique and quality will be stressed, and students will have much more freedom in the choice of subject matter, the development of original ideas and the exploration of their specific interests. Students are encouraged to work more independently and experiment with their ideas. This class is designed for the student who loves photography, wants to improve their skills and is interested in expanding upon various concepts in unique ways.

Other

Capstone – Full year

Prerequisite: Statement of Interest

Are you a hands-on learner…an independent thinker…or someone who’s interested in issues that aren’t covered in existing electives? This multidisciplinary senior elective course is for those interested in developing a community-oriented research project centered on a self-selected topic. Students will collaborate with teacher-mentors and experts in the community, conduct research, and implement a rigorous culminating project that connects with the students’ interests, and contributes positively to the community. Final projects can use diverse approaches – artistic, scientific/technical, digital, action-oriented, programmatic, and more. These projects will be presented and assessed in a public forum. Throughout this year-long course, students will develop skills such as oral and written communication, public speaking, research, goal setting, critical thinking, and project planning, all essential in college and the 21st century workplace. Successful completion of the course may qualify students to earn The New York State Seal of Civic Readiness. Students interested in learning more about this opportunity should speak with their Social Studies Teacher.