Visual Arts

List of 16 items.

• 3D Creations

  3D  Creations is a course that asks students to use their imaginations to combine existing elements of different media into a new creation. In this class students will explore visual solutions that will give new life to objects by making assemblages – 3 dimensional creations using paint, wire, paper, cloth, and lots of found objects. Students will hone their observation skills by examining current art work and they will learn the language of 3D art.

• Ceramics

  As an introduction to ceramics, students explore the basic techniques of pot formation, glazing, and studio safety and cleanliness. A brief history of the impact of ceramics on civilization and the different types of kilns used for firing finished work are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the repetition of techniques as an avenue to gaining mastery of skills as well as a personal style. Students are expected to complete six assignments: a pinch pot, a coil pot, an attached slab pot, a draped slab pot, a wheel thrown cylinder, and a wheel thrown bowl. There are opportunities for advanced students to pursue independent study after discussion with and special permission from the ceramics teacher. Independent study necessitates a commitment on the student’s part to work during open studio times and on weekends.  

• Collage

  This art elective introduces students to the craft of collage making. Students control the elements of line, color and form while designing a compositionally sound image from parts of other images and forms. A variety of collages by well-known and lesser known artists are studied and assignments include both two and three dimensional projects. The primary goal of this class is to develop an understanding of collage through visual problem solving, with a secondary goal being pure enjoyment and appreciation of the medium.

• Digital Art

  This class introduces students to the arts within the computer lab: creating, designing, and editing art, images, and video. Students are required to learn the basic tools of Photoshop, a professional graphics-editing program. In the course of a trimester students work on a variety of projects and learn how to investigate and decipher computer-generated images from non-computer generated images. Student projects include creative compositions derived from all genres of art as well as photographic collages created by imposing and altering images. Specific lessons include creating unique family photos, portraits, morphing animals together, animations, and creating album covers for bands.

• Digital Photography

  Digital photography plays an important role in today’s world. We take pictures so we can preserve memories, document events and create artistic works. This course introduces students to the fundamentals of photography including technical aspects and photo composition. Frame dynamics, contrast, texture, pattern and depth, as well as photographic components such as line and color are emphasized. Additionally students experiment with the Photoshop program and become proficient at editing and enhancing their images. Through a variety of assigned projects that encourage thoughtful creativity, students learn to critique and discuss their works while concurrently developing an ability to see the world through the lens of a camera.

• Drawing in the Natural World

  From the smallest shell to the largest tree, students will spend time closely observing natural objects in their environment and then drawing them. Some questions that may be posed to students include: Why do very different things have similar structures and patterns? How do these function? Can you imagine your own similar creation? 

• Exploring the Design Thinking Process

  The world is in flux and as a result, the number of challenges facing our students is ever expanding. To adequately prepare for the future, students will need increased problem solving skills. Using the Design Thinking models students work collaboratively and are focused on communication, creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. Simple materials are used to build prototypes and additionally, after satisfying the initial requirements of the class, a student can move into designing a product through the use of CAD (computer aided drawing) software which in turn programs the CNC (computer numerical code) machine. This class assists students in transferring the Design Thinking process to other areas of everyday life and promotes problem solving in a meaningful way.

• Foundational Art

  Foundational Art is a trimester Fourth Form course which introduces students to the elements of art that span all of the art electives offered at Eaglebrook. This course capitalizes on students’ imagination, creativity, and observational skills. Students will be immersed in both 2D and 3D engaging projects that use a wide variety of techniques and tools. They will develop an understanding of the shared vocabulary of artists, the ability to discuss and create in many mediums, and a solid foundation on which to build their creative future here at Eaglebrook and beyond.

• Independent Study/Advanced Studio Art

  An Independent Study is reserved for a serious and responsible art student who has had previous art class experience and who demonstrates a command of the basics of drawing and painting.  The class is offered only for advanced art students who can work well independently and have expressed an interest in creating pieces to augment their art portfolio.  The student must be motivated to put forth extra time and effort on his projects and be willing to commit to working on his assignments during open studio hours on the weekends.

• Outdoor Art

  In this 2D art class, students go outside and experience and create artwork inspired by nature. Students explore a variety of mediums including; sculping with natural materials (e.g. snow, mud, leaves), printmaking, drawing, painting with watercolors and acrylics, and special topic projects. The goal is to teach students to focus upon a specific subject area and to train them to recreate elements in nature through observations rather than from how they imagine an object in their hand. 

• Printmaking

  This course is designed as an introduction to the printmaking process. Students will learn a variety of printmaking techniques, including woodcut, linoleum cuts, dry-point etching and monoprinting. Gaining a familiarity with the studio as well as learning to work from observation are key components of this course. Basic concepts of value, color, scale and composition are focal points, and students should expect to come away with a working knowledge of the tools and materials.

• Stained Glass

  The Stained Glass program offers students an introduction to the basic techniques of pattern making, glass cutting and shaping, copper foiling, and soldering. Emphasis is put on developing an original design that might reflect the individual’s interest. Subjects range from simple patterns to complex figures, animals, and landscapes. Advanced students may create yearlong projects for their homes or for special gifts.

• Stone Carving

  In this trimester long class students learn how to transform a two dimensional idea into a three dimensional work of art. The proper use of the tools used in the reduction and polishing processes is stressed and emphasis is placed on the repetition of basic skills. The students generally finish one or two pieces and in the process they are not only practicing an ancient art form but are additionally developing skills in design and the art of patience.

• Third Form Woodworking

  As is the tradition at Eaglebrook School, all Third Formers are assigned to the Woodworking elective. The goal of the course is to introduce sixth graders to the fundamentals of woodworking and assist them in the development of basic skills. Emphasis is placed on the responsible and safe use of both hand and power tools and on proper woodshop conduct. A cooperative atmosphere is maintained and overall good citizenship is stressed. Projects are designed sequentially to allow students to build upon their skill set and gain increased confidence in the areas of applied art.

• Two-Dimensional Art

  The two-dimensional art class is taught by a variety of faculty who each bring their own unique experience and vision to the classroom. These classes range from a basic introduction to 2D art;  painting, drawing and design techniques, and progress to more advanced coursework involving oil paint and large-scale independent projects. Students experiment with a range of media, art-making practices and aesthetic and cultural styles.  The classes include learning practical skills such as how to handle and mix paint along with more challenging subjects such as developing thematic and emotional content. The goal is to impart to students the fundamental concepts of observation, color choice, composition and scale, while they create work they are proud to exhibit.

• Woodworking

  The woodworking class is designed as an introductory course and emphasizes the acquisition of basic woodworking skills.  Students are typically from mixed grade levels but share the same responsibilities in class. Each student completes an introductory project that is designed to familiarize him with a majority of the hand and power tools he will employ during the term. Woodworking terminology, shop safety, proper and safe tool use, methods of joinery, project design, woodworking plan interpretation, and wood properties are all introduced as part of the course curriculum. Each student is expected to complete the assigned first piece and then choose and complete successive projects that align with his individual interests. Advanced students are welcome to join the classes as independent study participants.