Kindergarten through Third Grade projects emphasize the “Elements of Art:” line, shape, form, space, color, texture, and value.
Fourth through Sixth Grade projects utilize the “Principles of Design:” emphasis, contrast, pattern, balance, rhythm, movement, and unity.
At the lower school, we aim to do projects that complement lessons in the classroom. For example, in First Grade, students may create portraits of the inventors studied in history; in Second Grade, they may create an Egyptian sarcophagus, and in Fifth Grade, they may make a medieval illuminated manuscript.
Seventh and eighth-grade students will experiment with a variety of mediums to create art, developing their skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpting. The elements of art (line, shape, form, space, color, value, and texture) will be reinforced through projects in both 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional work.
Students will also learn to apply the principles of design (balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, pattern, rhythm, and unity) in their art-making practices. Finally, students will experience the critique process by observing and discussing each other’s work and the work of artists through history.
During grades ten and beyond, students come to art classes designed as a creative environment for artistic discovery. The student has the opportunity to experience the process of a working artist. This is an independent study class where each student begins with an idea, works out art problems as they occur, and eventually produces a finished piece of artwork, which is critiqued by the class. Finally, and most importantly, students will be pointed to God as the Master Artist, our infinite source of inspiration.
