Visual Art

The visual arts provide a unique and necessary understanding of human expression, assists in the development of creativity, builds problem-solving skills, and provides an opportunity for verbal and nonverbal communication.   The visual arts offer another form of self-expression to students. In Dysart, our K-12 Visual Art curriculum is designed to build on students' knowledge, aesthetic awareness, art appreciation, and age-appropriate skills. Our programs introduce and reinforce art concepts, skills, techniques, media, technology, and processes.   Students are given a multitude of opportunities for creative expression within a structured framework. 

Visual Arts courses offered in High School

Art 1-8

Offered: 9-12

All High Schools

In Art 1-2, students will study elements and principles of design as well as techniques for both two-dimensional materials. Areas of study may include drawing, painting, mixed-media, graphic design, and printmaking. 

In Art 3-4, students will focus on exploring media approaches, color theory, surfaces, and technologies. Students will work toward the development of a portfolio.

In Art 5-6, students will further explore advanced drawing, painting, and mixed-media techniques. Students will focus on improving technical skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving within their art, as well as developing their own style. Portfolio development is continued in Art 5-6. 

In Art 7-8, students will pursue independent projects within a classroom setting. Upon approval, students will generate a body of work based on individual artistic interests in drawing, painting, and/or mixed media. 

Ceramics 1-8

Offered: 9-12

All High Schools

In Ceramics 1-2, students will be introduced to the fundamentals of ceramic arts by exploring hand-building techniques: pinch, coil, and slab. Surface decoration such as glazing, staining, and other techniques will be examined.

In Ceramics 3-4, students will learn functional and sculptural forms using hand-building methods. Basic wheel throwing and mold making will be introduced. A variety of clay bodies, glazes, decorative techniques, and firing methods will be used.  

In Ceramics 5-8, students work towards portfolio pieces by perfecting their craft while challenging themselves to create more complex pieces. Students are able to make pieces and experiment with multiple techniques beyond glaze. 

Painting 1-2

Offered: 9-12

All High Schools

Students will examine color theory and painting techniques. In addition, they will explore media approaches, techniques, surfaces, and technologies. Students will be able to understand the relationship between art, culture, and self. All students will develop a portfolio for presentation. 

AP Studio Art

Offered: 11-12

All High Schools

Students will create a portfolio focusing on a central idea/ sustained investigation that shows experimentation with materials, processes, and ideas while reflecting and revising work. At the end of the course, the AP College Board will do a portfolio review and score the work based on a 5-point rubric

Visual Art Courses Offered in K-8 and Middle School 

Art 

Offered: K-8

All K-4 and K-8 Schools 

Students will explore the artistic processes by creating, presenting, responding, and connecting through visual arts. This will include age-appropriate instruction in painting, drawing, clay, and various media. Students will develop new skills through engaging, hands-on experiences in the arts. Students will have the opportunity to learn about various artists, genres, and mediums. 

MS Art

Offered: 5-6th Grade

Middles Schools Only

Students will explore the artistic processes by creating, presenting, responding, and connecting through visual arts. This will include age-appropriate instruction in painting, drawing, ceramics, and various media. Students will develop new skills through engaging, hands-on experiences in the arts. Students will have the opportunity to learn about various artists, genres, and mediums. 

Intro to Art

Offered: 7-8th Grade

Middles Schools Only

Students will learn the elements and principles of art and how to apply them within their artwork. Students will explore various media and materials. Students will also learn some basic art history directly applicable to projects.  This course will start preparing students for HS Art courses. 

Advanced Art

Offered: 7-8th Grade

Middles Schools Only

Students will build on basic drawing, perspective, and sketching techniques using various media to depict a variety of subjects. This course will survey various painted media on traditional surfaces of canvas and paper. Students will create artwork to demonstrate their understanding of the elements of art and principles of design.  This course will start preparing students for HS Art courses. 

Mixed Media/ 3D Art

Offered: 7-8th Grade

Middles Schools Only

Students will create multi-media compositions with a variety of materials, paint, images, found objects, and ink painting. Techniques will include collage, monotype printing, drawing, painting, mixing, assemblage, cutting, pasting, etc. Students will be challenged to create products that demonstrate their understanding of the elements of art and principles of design.