The Ceramics Program fosters artistic and personal growth. At the elementary level, we introduce hand-building methods, wheel throwing, additional and subtractive sculpting, decoration techniques, glazing theory, firing, and the development of an awareness of clay’s aesthetic properties. Our intermediate and advanced courses encourage students to experiment with clay to discover its unique possibilities and to develop a stronger sense of craftsmanship. In addition, advanced students learn the history of ceramics and expand their understanding of various techniques, while continuing to refine their throwing, glazing and firing skills.
Ceramics students regularly receive awards for their work in local and regional juried competitions and shows.
The Photography program emphasizes photography as a fine art. Students are encouraged to expand their creativity and cultivate their perception through their use of the camera and the development of ideas. In addition to studio work, all classes incorporate knowledge of contemporary artists and historic practitioners. Our photography facility includes a traditional darkroom where students work in 35mm, medium, and large format photography, digital imaging, and studio lighting.
Photography students participate in annual juried exhibitions and competitions, and their works regularly earn awards.
Studio Art includes drawing, painting, sculpture and an introduction to computer graphics. Through the study and practice of these visual media, students develop a new way to explain and interpret their world. As our students progress to the advanced level, studio work is combined with the study of aesthetics and art history. Course offerings range from 'Introduction to Art' to 'Portfolio Art', which concentrates on the preparation of a professional art portfolio.
Studio Art students participate in competitions and juried exhibitions, and many of their works receive awards every year.
Advanced Placement (AP) Art is available to students who are seriously interested in any of the visual arts:
- drawing,
- painting,
- ceramics,
- design, and
- photography.
AP Art addresses three major concerns: quality of work, the student’s concentration on a particular visual interest or problem, and the student’s range of formal, technical, and expressive artistic means. Student portfolios are are structured in three sections – Drawing, 2-D (Graphic Design and Photography), and 3-D (Ceramics and Sculpture) to demonstrate the student’s fundamental competence and range of understanding in visual concerns and methods.