The purpose of this course is to provide a balanced, comprehensive visual arts program, which guides students to achieve the standards in the visual arts. Introduction to Art provides a foundation of visual arts knowledge and skills and their connections to other subjects, and explores the discipline in depth both intellectually and experientially. The course serves as a prerequisite for all advanced visual arts courses – ceramics, drawing, fiber arts, painting, photography, sculpture and visual communications. The course is designed around the following key concepts:

• Meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that allow personal growth and creative expression

• Integration of aesthetics, art criticism, art history, and studio production

• Sequentially planned experiences that build on concepts and provide learning opportunities that incorporate a variety of media, artistic styles and historical periods

Throughout this course, students will make and keep a sketchbook and develop a digital art portfolio featuring selected works of art. In addition, students will self-examine completed works in an effort to foster a sense of accomplishment and commitment to high standards of art production. This course is written to the State and National Standards of Art Education.