Visual Arts provides an introduction to philosophy of art; art criticism and art history, while art production classes in drawing, painting, and mixed media build knowledge and technical skill for creative artworks. Introduction to a variety of drawing and painting media, compositional techniques, color theory, critiques, and reflections upon the work provide skills needed to move from a realistic image to personal expression and significant meaning. Through study of the urban landscape, still lifes, and personally meaningful subject matter, students develop a strong foundation of observational skills and a portfolio of artworks for college reviews. The focus is on the individual development of each student’s personal style. Artwork displayed in local venues is used as a resource for study. Field trips and visiting artists provide connection to the real world of art. Students also exhibit their work and collaborate with their colleagues in other art areas.

 

Upperclassmen Visual Arts students begin the process of assisting with the development of the End of Year Performance titled, CASA Live!, starting the first week of school. Every Wednesday, students from all programs work together in the Integrated Arts curriculum. Six various art disciplines: creative writing, dance, film and media arts, music, theatre, and visual arts collaborate to discover a theme, and develop the end of year program while cultivating an appreciation for the various art disciplines. During the course of a 9-month period, students break into small groups consisting of various arts disciplines to discuss and create scenes that later develop into fully realized components of the performance. Each class is asked to embellish scenes, using dialogue, music, prop suggestions, movement, and film interpretation as related to the chosen theme and thesis. The result? An artistic rendering of a theme more closely related to performance art than a high school musical or narrative play. More importantly, students learn the art of working together ---all the highs and lows of collaboration that accumulates into an original, crowd-pleasing performance for the community to enjoy.

 

Please email Mr. Dan Cook at dcook@casa-arts.org for more information.