Ceramics Course of Study

Mentor Public Schools Art Dep. K-12

One Semester- 1/2 Credit

Prerequisites: General Art 9, Fine Art 1 or Art Foundations

From the beginning of man’s civilization, through each cultural epoch, clay has been a major medium of artistic expression. Of all forms of media expression, clay is the most diverse. Its plastic qualities allows for unlimited design and decorative possibilities, immediate response to the artist’s touch, and the creation of functional forms. The purpose of this course is to develop hand-building techniques and the creativity of each student. This will lead to the production of unique ceramic items, allowing the student to reflect upon pieces with a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

Art Foundations Course of Study

Mentor Public Schools Art Dep. K-12

One Semester- 1/2 Credit

This course serves as a foundation course for the beginning art student. The course is designed to introduce and develop the concept of 2D design as it relates to the visual arts. Art appreciation, as well as studio art will be emphasized providing an opportunity for students to be introduced to the visual arts concepts. Drawing, color, and the relationships of the elements and principles of design will be included. A strong foundation in art practices and theory will be stressed. Upon completion of this course, students will have three alternatives; to make a selection from the semester art electives offerings; upon recommendation, to enter the fine arts program; to exit the program.

Drawing Course of Study

Mentor Public Schools Art Dep. K-12

One Semester- 1/2 Credit

This course is designed for those students who have an interest in the area of drawing. In the process of learning how to draw, a person discovers visual relationships that he or she may have never known existed. This course is designed to teach the students about the area of drawing, and in the process, allow the students to be more visually aware of his or her surroundings. Areas to be covered included perspective, various shading techniques, lighting and its application to drawing, composition, a variety of media, etc.

Jewelry Course of Study

Mentor Public Schools Art Dep. K-12

One Semester- 1/2 Credit

Prerequisite: General Art 9, Fine Art I or Art Foundations

Students taking jewelry will be offered the opportunity to design and manufacture personal jewelry and/or small-scale sculpture in both precious and non-precious metals (such as nickel silver, brass, copper). Students will be introduced to the basic processes in metals such as piercing, soldering, fabrication, setting stones and forming. A strong emphasis will be placed upon personal and creative design as well as craftsmanship. This course gives students an understanding of both design and technical operations. Along with this they experience and develop personal manner of self-assessment and appraisal. Operation of both hand and power tolls will be covered. Students will need to play a studio fee and purchase jewelry supplies from the student bookstore.

Photography Course of Study

Mentor Public Schools Art Dep. K-12

One Semester- 1/2 Credit

Prerequisites: General Art 9, Fine Art I or Art Foundations

This course is designed to introduce students to black and white photography. Students will be taking and developing their own black and white photographs. Each student is required to have a 35 mm manual camera (Note: the shutter speed and aperture can be manually adjusted independently of one another). A photographic portfolio will be created.

Printmaking Course of Study

Mentor Public Schools Art Dep. K-12

One Semester- 1/2 Credit

Prerequisites: General Art 9, Fine Art I or Art Foundations

The desire to make copies of images seems to have developed all over the world. From handprints to stamps, people have used the repetition of images throughout history. This course is based upon intaglio (etching), relief (block printing) and plan graphic printing processes. Projects involve the students’ creation of multiple fine art prints using printing mediums. Emphasis will be placed upon development of “the image” and production, capitalizing on the unique characteristics of each printing process. Because of the close relationship between printmaking and drawing, it is an excellent extension for those who enjoy drawing but would like an alternative approach. This course gives students a historical view of the craft while relating it to their personal aesthetic exploration. This class is recommended for both Fine Art majors as well as those who enjoy drawing.