Visual Arts
We offer the following comprehensive courses and programs from Pre K through 12 grade
Atelier PreK-KG
At the Atelier, students are invited to figure out and explore many different ways to express themselves through art, music, dance, and theatre.
The Atelierista, as well as the other teachers, recognizes that children are born with thousands of ideas and have hundreds of languages of expression. These languages might include, painting, singing, building, taking apart, acting, dancing or drawing, the possibilities are endless.
In the Atelier, it is our goal to provide as many of these languages as possible and to be open to the possibility of many, many more. Students will be able to apply knowledge in other subjects such as science and language arts and extend and express their understanding through the arts.
Elementary Arts
The ISP Elementary Art team’s goal is to create a continuous learning environment in which the student develops a positive self-image through a variety of learning experiences and activities based on the elements and principles of art and design. We will enrich the learner’s visual art awareness by teaching different techniques with various mediums. We encourage discovery, creativity, exploration and a lifelong appreciation for the relevance of the Arts in the student’s lives.
Art in the Middle School
All students in grades 6 to 8 are exposed to core art disciplines including drawing, painting, ceramics, and graphic design. They will learn how to use a range of tools, media and techniques through a process of creative exploration, guided investigation and personal reflection. Students will keep a regular art journal to support and document the planning, production and sharing of their artworks.
Art in the High School
The ISP High School Visual Arts Program includes courses designed to promote a high level of proficiency in the arts. Incorporating the IB learner profile at all grade levels, students learn to implement creative and critical thinking strategies, and apply formal and conceptual qualities in their artworks. The course electives offer a range of opportunities to explore different media, tools and processes. Trans-disciplinary connections with other subjects form an integral part of the inquiry based approach to instruction.
Digital Photography:
This leveled course provides beginners with skills and knowledge in the use of DSLR cameras and smartphones in both automatic and manual settings. Students will learn the basics of composition and illumination as well as corrective and creative post-production techniques. Advanced students continue to develop their skills and knowledge in the use of DSLR cameras, including studio lighting, special effects and advanced composition techniques.
Painting:
This exploratory course is designed to introduce students to a range of painting media and techniques, including watercolor, acrylic, oil and mixed media. Through guided and independent projects, students will develop creative and critical thinking skills, as well as acquire technical proficiency. This is a recommended course for students considering IB Visual Arts. Advanced students are encouraged to develop personal inquiry projects.
Drawing and 2D Media:
This exploratory course is designed to introduce students to a range of media, techniques and processes, including drawing, painting, collage and print-making. Through guided and independent projects, students will develop creative and critical thinking skills, as well as acquire technical proficiency. This is a recommended course for students considering IB Visual Arts. Advanced students are encouraged to develop personal inquiry projects.
Graphic Design:
This course provides students with hands-on experience with Adobe Creative Suite digital technology including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Students will learn how to use these tools in both guided and independent projects, including logo and poster design for school events, typography design, and digital photo manipulation. In addition to having fun, students can acquire the creative problem solving skills useful in many careers in communication like marketing, the media and the arts. This is a recommended companion course for students taking IB Visual Arts.
Sculpture and Ceramics:
This exploratory course introduces students to ceramics and clay sculpture, including hand built and wheel thrown work. Students will learn about processing and firing clay, making and applying glazes and cold finishes, and how to present finished work. This is a recommended companion course for students taking IB Visual Arts. Advanced students are encouraged to develop personal inquiry projects.
IB Art
This Group 6 subject is offered at both Higher and Standard Level, and is offered to both diploma and certificate candidates. This class builds on prior experience and skills through independent investigation and artistic production. The two-year course covers technical, theoretical and curatorial practices, and culminates with an exhibition in the Performing Arts Gallery.