This course aims to cultivate students' understanding and application of the fundamental elements and principles of art through immersive, hands-on projects. By engaging with a variety of 2D mediums and techniques, students will develop their technical skills and creative problem-solving abilities while exploring their personal artistic voice. The course encourages critical reflection, collaboration, and community engagement, fostering a supportive environment where students can express themselves and connect their art to broader cultural and historical contexts.
Learning goals
Students will explore and apply the fundamental elements and principles of art to express their ideas and personal narratives through various 2D mediums. They will experiment with traditional and contemporary techniques, enhancing their technical skills and creative problem-solving abilities. By engaging with community artists, participating in critiques, and reflecting on their artistic processes, students will develop a deeper understanding of their own artistic voice and the cultural contexts of art. Through self-directed learning and critical reflection, students will build a sense of identity and belonging, fostering their self-efficacy and ability to communicate visually.
Standards
[National Core Arts Standards] VA:Cr1.2.2a - Make art or design with various materials and tools to explore personal interests, questions, and curiosity.
[National Core Arts Standards] VA:Cr2.1.2a - Experiment with various materials and tools to explore personal interests in a work of art or design.
[National Core Arts Standards] VA:Pr5.1.2a - Distinguish between different materials or artistic techniques for preparing artwork for presentation.
Competencies
Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
Products
Throughout the course, students will create a diverse portfolio of 2D artworks, including drawings, paintings, printmaking pieces, and collages that demonstrate their understanding of art elements and principles. Each student will develop a personal sketchbook documenting their artistic journey, experimentation, and reflections. The final product will be a curated portfolio showcase, featuring selected artworks accompanied by personal artist statements that articulate their creative process and growth.
Launch
Begin the course with an 'Art Exploration Day' where students engage in a series of interactive, hands-on stations. Each station introduces them to different art elements and mediums such as graphite, watercolor, and collage. Students will experiment with these materials, sparking curiosity and laying the groundwork for their artistic journey. This immersive experience sets the stage for personal exploration and discovery throughout the course.
Exhibition
Organize a 'Community Art Night' where students display their artwork in a local gallery or community center, inviting family, friends, and community members to view the pieces, participate in interactive art stations, and engage in discussions with the young artists about their creative processes and inspirations. Create an 'Art in the Park' event where students set up pop-up art installations and live demonstrations in a local park, inviting the community to explore the art pieces, participate in guided tours led by the students, and enjoy live performances related to their art themes. Plan an 'Art and Storytelling Festival' where students not only display their artwork but also share the stories or messages behind their pieces through live storytelling sessions or recorded narratives, inviting community members to engage with the art on a deeper level.
