Academics
Departments & Curriculum

Current Year Course Offerings (2024-25)

Visual Arts

Visual art curriculum includes photography, painting, drawing, ceramics, mixed media and much more and is designed to meet the needs of all students from those who want to explore possibilities of self expression to those who intend to pursue a more advanced, in-depth study in the arts.

The visual arts program is structured in a holistic manner, blending history, culture, current events, technique and more into the works students create, while curating the essence and application of creativity and introducing students to peer critiques, artist statements, and risk taking.

CURRENT COURSES OFFERED (2024-25)

  • Design Fundamentals - Grades 8-10

    Grades 8-10
    0.5 Credit

    This course is a requirement for IB Visual Arts.
    This academic art class explores the fundamentals of two and three-dimensional works of art. Classes consist of lectures, cooperative learning experiences, and reflection and responses to art, both historical and contemporary. Students will understand different mediums and techniques used to explore the composition, expressive qualities, and intent of the artist. Formal critique writing skills evolve throughout the semester. The overall goal is for students to develop a visual vocabulary, theories, and concepts that can be applied to their own creative processes. Throughout the class, students develop their own criteria for successful art. Design Fundamentals is a prerequisite for all IB Visual Arts classes.
    Units of Study
    Art in Our World
    The Elements of Art
    The Principles of Art
    Art History

  • Drawing & Painting 1 - Grades 8-12

    Grades 8-12
    0.5 Credit
    Required Tools:  Sketchbook
    This drawing and painting class is a semester-long studio course designed to introduce students to the basics of two-dimensional art. Students will learn the fundamental techniques of drawing and painting, beginning with drawing exercises and then progressing to painting projects using acrylics and watercolors. The class will also cover a range of subject matter including still life, landscape, and portraits. Throughout the course, students will be encouraged to develop their own unique style and explore their own creativity. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in the skills and techniques needed for drawing and painting and the ability to express themselves visually in a meaningful way.
    Units of Study
    The Elements Art: Define and Adopt into Art-Making Practices
    Graphite Pencil: Drawing, Shading, Highlight, Value, Linear Perspective
    Colored Pencil: Drawing, Blending, Value, Implied Texture
    Pen & Ink: Drawing, Pattern, Value
    Tempera Paint: Color Theory, Mixing, Value, Tints, Tone, Shades
    Acrylic Paint: Composition, Value, Toning, Blocking In
    Watercolor Paint: Color Making, Transparent, Opaque
    Printmaking: Lino-Cuts, Lino Prints
    Art Presentation: Exhibition, Critiques, Artist Statements

  • Drawing & Painting 2 - Grades 8-12

    Grades 8-12
    0.5 Credit

    Prerequisite: Drawing and Painting 1 and teacher recommendation

    Required Tools:  Sketchbook
    This intermediate drawing and painting class builds upon the foundations and skills learned in Drawing & Painting 1. The semester-long studio course will focus on expanding students' technical abilities, introducing them to additional mediums, and exposing them to contemporary and historical artists to have a deeper appreciation of two-dimensional art. Through a combination of hands-on projects, critiques, and discussions, students will grow and hone their artistic abilities. By the end of the course, students will have a body of work using advanced techniques and their own artistic voice.

    Units of Study
    The Principles of Design: Define and Adopt into Art-Making Practices
    Pen & Ink: Reference Drawing, Value, Implied Texture
    Watercolor: Composition, Illustration
    Charcoal: Portraits
    Acrylic: Observational Drawing, Still Life
    Pastel: Landscape
    Art Presentation: Exhibition, Critiques, Artist Statements

  • Advanced Visual Art - 2D - Grades 9-12

    Grades 9-12
    0.5 Credit

    Prerequisites: Drawing & Painting  1 and 2, a portfolio review and teacher recommendation

    Required Tools:  Sketchbook
    The Advanced Visual Art 2D course is designed to provide an opportunity for students to continue to develop their skills and refine their craft in drawing and painting. Open to both pre-IB and non-IB students, the course emphasizes choice and freedom in the student's work, allowing them to explore and experiment with various mediums and techniques. Students will have the opportunity to work on projects that challenge and engage them while receiving guidance and feedback from the teacher. The course will provide a supportive environment where students can take ownership of their creative process and start to develop a personal style. Students will be able to work on projects of their choice, in the media and/or subject matter that interests them. By the end of the course, students will have gained a deeper understanding of their craft, honed their technical skills, and developed a strong sense of personal expression.

    This course may be repeated for credit with the permission of the teacher.
    Units of Study
    Further Practice with Various Media (Watercolor, Acrylic, Oil, Gouache, Charcoal, Graphite, Pastel)
    Inspiration from the Great Masters
    Making Individual Choices in Art
    Critiques
    Independent Exploration 
    Investigation of Encaustic, Cold Wax, and Mixed Media
    Exhibition Preparation


  • Ceramics 1 - Grades 8-12

    Grades 8-12
    0.5 Credit
    Required Tools: Sketchbook
    This semester long course provides an overview and introduction to the fundamental processes, techniques, and practices of creating with clay. Students will learn three hand-building techniques and three wheel-thrown techniques as well as how to trim and glaze their pots. Emphasis is placed on skill development, establishing studio practices, quality craftsmanship, experimentation, creative problem-solving, and self-expression.

    Units of Study
    Hand building: Pinching, Coil building, Slab building
    Wheel Throwing: Cylinders, Bowls, Plates
    Trimming Essentials
    Glazing: Underglaze, Dip Glaze
    Exhibition: Curation, Display, Artist Statement

  • Ceramics 2 - Grade 8-12

    Grades 8-12
    0.5 Credit

    Prerequisites: Ceramics 1 and teacher recommendation
    Required Tools: Sketchbook
    This course follows Ceramics 1 and is designed particularly for students who have a strong interest in ceramics. New techniques will be built upon the skills learned in Ceramics 1. Emphasis is placed on skill development, studio practices, quality craftsmanship, experimentation, creative problem-solving, and self-expression. Students are expected to make critical judgments of their work and challenge their creative process. Following this class, students can decide to pursue Advanced Visual Art Ceramics or IB Art.
    Units of Study
    Combination/Sculptural Forms
    Lidded Forms and Handles
    Experimentation of Surface Design: Sgraffito, Sodium Silicate, Burnishing
    Alternative Firing Techniques: Saggar, Raku, Pit-fire
    Exhibition: Curation, Display, Artist Statement

  • Sculpture 1 - Grades 8-12

    Grades 8-12
    0.5 Credit
    Required Tools:  Sketchbook
    This semester-long course covers the fundamental skills, knowledge, attitudes, and technology necessary to begin to understand sculpture. Various sculptural processes are explored and students work with a variety of materials and tools. Students learn to make critical judgments about their own art and the art of others and are exposed to the historical and contemporary role of sculpture throughout the world. Students explore various materials such as clay, paper, wood, cardboard, wire, and metal. The basic three-dimensional design will be considered with an emphasis on the elements and principles of design.
    Units of Study
    Modeling
    Cultural Mask Making
    Found Objects
    Post Secret
    Exhibition

  • Advanced Visual Art - Photography - Grades 9-12

    Grades 9-12
    0.5 Credit

    Prerequisites: Photography 1, Photography 2, a portfolio review and teacher recommendation

    Required Tools:  In addition to using their digital cameras from Photography 1, students have the option to use a 35mm camera if they wish to continue utilizing the darkroom. Options for film cameras will be discussed at the start of the class. If either of these camera requirements presents an obstacle to enrolling in the class, accommodations may be available. For additional information, speak to the photography teacher. 
    The Advanced Visual Art - Photography course is the third level on the photography path and will continue to allow students to grow and develop their skills and hone their craft. It is open to both pre-IB Art students and individuals not pursuing the IB path. This class will be highly independent with individualized instruction. There will be a thorough introduction to contemporary photographers via field trips, lectures, and visiting artists. Both analog and digital platforms will be utilized for refinement in technique and individual expression, and opportunities will be provided throughout the semester to experiment with alternative and non-traditional processes. Students are expected to make critical judgments of their own and others’ work, challenge their creative process, and continue to strengthen their work ethic.

    This course may be repeated for credit with the instructor’s permission.
    Units of Study
    Film and Digital Camera Reintroduction
    Darkroom Processes and Photoshop Reintroduction
    Mixed Media Experiments
    Concept Research
    Creative Planning
    Test Images
    Independent Project Work 
    Working Critique
    Independent Project Completion
    Art Show Preparation
    Final Critiques 
    Advanced Lighting and Lens Introduction


  • Sculpture 2 - Grades 8-12

    .5 Credit
    Prerequisites: Sculpture 1 
    Required Tools:  Sketchbook
    Sculpture 2 is designed for the student who wants to continue exploring the techniques and mediums introduced in Sculpture 1. This class will focus not only on technique but personal message, the relationship between content and medium, and an exploration of sculptors past and present. Students are expected to work independently with clear deadlines for critiques and exhibitions.
    Units of Study
    Carving: Clay and Plaster
    Storytelling through Sculpture
    Exploration of Negative Space
    Site Specific Environmental Art
    Exhibition

  • Advanced Visual Art - 3D - Grades 9-12

    Grades 9-12
    0.5 Credit

    Prerequisites: Ceramics 1 and 2 or Sculpture 1 and 2, a portfolio review and teacher recommendation

    Required Tools:  3-ring binder (1.5” - 2”)

    This class follows Ceramics 2 or Sculpture 2 and is designed particularly for students who have a high interest in developing their sculptural and ceramics skills and artistic voice.  It is open to both pre-IB Art students and individuals not pursuing the IB path.  New techniques will be built upon the skills learned in Ceramics 2 and Sculpture 2.  This course will be guided strongly by independent student interest. Emphasis is placed on skill development, quality craftsmanship, experimentation, creative problem-solving, and self-expression. Students are expected to make critical judgments of their work and challenge their creative process.

    This course may be repeated for credit with the permission of the teacher.
    Units of Study
    Wheel Thrown Sets/Dinnerware
    Altering Wheel-Thrown Pieces/Alternatives in Sculptural Materials
    Further Exploration of Alternative Firing Techniques/Alternative Surface Resolution in Sculpture
    Experimentation of Scale
    Further Exploration of Surface Design
    Exhibition: Curation, Display, Artist Statement


  • Photography 1 - Grades 8-12

    Grades 8-12
    0.5 Credit

    Required Tools:  Students must supply their own digital camera with manual capabilities. Both DSLRs and non-DSLRs are acceptable. If the camera requirement presents an obstacle for enrolling in the class, accommodations may be available. Contact the photography teacher for additional information.
    This studio course provides an overview and introduction into the fundamentals of photography as fine art, balancing technical proficiency with the development of individual artistic voice expression. A digital photography platform is utilized in this introductory-level class, no prior experience is necessary. Adobe Creative Cloud, with a focus on Lightroom Classic and Photoshop, is provided to students for use on their school laptops throughout the semester and the photography lab comes equipped with individual second monitors. Following this class, students who wish to continue to the next level should enroll in Photography 2.
    Units of Study
    Digital File Management
    Manual Camera Operation
    Visual Journaling as Part of the Creative Practice
    Photo Editing and Image Manipulation
    Exploration of Various Photographic Subject Matter
    Compositional Techniques
    Natural and Artificial Lighting Techniques
    Skill-based and Personal Projects
    Large Format Print Production
    Exhibiting Artwork and Photo Finishing
    Artist Presentations

  • Photography 2 - Grade 9-12

    Grades 8-12
    0.5 Credit

    Prerequisite: Photography 1 and a demonstration of growth in technical skill, development of conceptual ideas, and strong studio practices including work ethic.
    This course builds on skills learned in Photography 1 while applying them to a traditional black and white darkroom. In addition to furthering proficiency with the camera, lighting techniques, and photographic aesthetics, students will learn to develop 35mm film and create darkroom enlargements by hand. Working to further refine their personal style and explore photography as a creative medium, students begin to develop a body of work based on their personal interests and artistic vision. Following this class, students can decide to pursue IB Art or the Studio Workshop level. The camera and materials are provided for this course. 
    Units of Study
    Refinement of Manual Camera Skills
    Developing 35mm Film 
    Darkroom Operation and Creating Enlargements 
    Long Term Project Development
    Journaling as Part of the Creative Practice
    Critiques
    Exhibiting Artwork
    Alternative Processes
    Artist Presentations
    Artist Websites

  • Visual Arts Intern - Grades 11-12

    Grades 11-12
    0.5 Credit
    Prerequisite:  3 semesters of Visual Arts courses:  1, 2, Studio Workshop; Application 
    This class is designed for students who want to enrich their knowledge of the management and running of an art studio. Students will be responsible for studio organization, maintenance of equipment and tools, and other medium-specific tasks. Students will gain insight and understanding of the working studio and will be prepared for studio assistant work on the college level. 
    For each semester, there will be two interns for the Ceramic Studio, and 1 each in Drawing and Painting and Photography.  Students will be chosen through an application process directed by the Visual Arts Department.
    Units of Study
    Systems of Organization for Studio Equipment & Tools
    Maintaining the Studio Space
    Best Practices in Studio Management

  • IB Visual Arts - Grade 11

    2D, 3D, or Photography

    Grade 11
    1 Credit

    Prerequisites:  IB Visual Arts is open to juniors who have fulfilled all required pre-IB art electives, who have demonstrated maturity, commitment, and dedication to visual arts, who have written an essay of intent and have the permission of the teacher. Pre-IB art electives include: Design Fundamentals, levels 1 and 2 in one medium

    Required Tools:  Sketchbook

    Additional Fee:  IB assessment fees will be incurred in the second year of the course.
    This IB Visual Arts course is the first year of a two-year program for diploma or course candidates. Students accepted into the IB Visual Arts Program will spend 3 quarters rotating between each of the visual arts discipline areas, spending 1 quarter with each of the IB Visual Arts teachers of 2D, 3D, and Photography to create a well-rounded Process Portfolio (1 part of the IB Assessment). The 4th quarter will be spent with the medium and teacher that the student chooses to pursue their medium (2D, 3D, or Photography.)   Additionally, the final quarter provides an introduction to the Comparative Study portion of the IB Assessment.
    Units of Study
    2D Processes
    Photo Processes
    3D Processes
    Introduction to the Comparative Study

  • IB Visual Arts HL - 2D - Grade 12

    Grade 12
    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB Visual Arts 

    Required Tools:  Sketchbook

    Additional Fee:  Students in this course are expected to complete the IB Assessment. A fee applies to all students taking this course.
     
    This IB Visual Arts course is the second year of a two-year program for diploma or course candidates. This course is designed for the visual arts student with creative and imaginative abilities who may pursue the visual arts at a university or college. Senior Year in IB Visual Arts will entail refinement and completion of the Process Portfolio and Comparative Study. Seniors will also be required to complete a cohesive body of work for the Exhibition portion of the IB Assessment and an accompanying Curatorial Rationale.
    Units of Study
    Comparative Study
    Exhibition:  Planning and Creating
    Curatorial Rationale

  • IB Visual Arts SL 3D - Grade 12

    Grade 12
    1 Credit
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB Visual Arts 
    Required Tools:  Sketchbook
    Additional Fee:  Students in this course are expected to complete the IB Assessment. A fee applies to all students taking this course.
     
    This IB Visual Arts course is the second year of a two-year program for diploma or course candidates. This course is designed for the visual arts student with creative and imaginative abilities who may pursue the visual arts at a university or college. Senior Year in IB Visual Arts will entail refinement and completion of the Process Portfolio and Comparative Study. Seniors will also be required to complete a cohesive body of work for the Exhibition portion of the IB Assessment and an accompanying Curatorial Rationale.
    Units of Study
    Comparative Study
    Exhibition:  Planning and Creating
    Curatorial Rationale

  • IB Visual Arts HL - 3D - Grade 12

    Grade 12
    1 Credit
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB Visual Arts 
    Required Tools:  Sketchbook
    Additional Fee:  Students in this course are expected to complete the IB Assessment. A fee applies to all students taking this course.
     
    This IB Visual Arts course is the second year of a two-year program for diploma or course candidates. This course is designed for the visual arts student with creative and imaginative abilities who may pursue the visual arts at a university or college. Senior Year in IB Visual Arts will entail refinement and completion of the Process Portfolio and Comparative Study. Seniors will also be required to complete a cohesive body of work for the Exhibition portion of the IB Assessment and an accompanying Curatorial Rationale.
    Units of Study
    Comparative Study
    Exhibition:  Planning and Creating
    Curatorial Rationale

  • IB Visual Arts HL - Photography - Grade 12

    Grade 12
    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB Visual Arts 

    Required Tools:  Sketchbook

    Additional Fee:  Students in this course are expected to complete the IB Assessment. A fee applies to all students taking this course.
     
    This IB Visual Arts course is the second year of a two-year program for diploma or course candidates. This course is designed for the visual arts student with creative and imaginative abilities who may pursue the visual arts at a university or college. Senior Year in IB Visual Arts will entail refinement and completion of the Process Portfolio and Comparative Study. Seniors will also be required to complete a cohesive body of work for the Exhibition portion of the IB Assessment and an accompanying Curatorial Rationale.
    Units of Study
    Comparative Study
    Exhibition:  Planning and Creating
    Curatorial Rationale

  • IB Visual Arts SL 2D - Grade 12

    Grade 12
    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB Visual Arts 

    Required Tools:  Sketchbook

    Additional Fee:  Students in this course are expected to complete the IB Assessment. A fee applies to all students taking this course.
     
    This IB Visual Arts course is the second year of a two-year program for diploma or course candidates. This course is designed for the visual arts student with creative and imaginative abilities who may pursue the visual arts at a university or college. Senior Year in IB Visual Arts will entail refinement and completion of the Process Portfolio and Comparative Study. Seniors will also be required to complete a cohesive body of work for the Exhibition portion of the IB Assessment and an accompanying Curatorial Rationale.
    Units of Study
    Comparative Study
    Exhibition:  Planning and Creating
    Curatorial Rationale

  • IB Visual Arts SL Photography - Grade 12

    Grade 12
    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB Visual Arts 

    Required Tools:  Sketchbook

    Additional Fee:  Students in this course are expected to complete the IB Assessment. A fee applies to all students taking this course.
     
    This IB Visual Arts course is the second year of a two-year program for diploma or course candidates. This course is designed for the visual arts student with creative and imaginative abilities who may pursue the visual arts at a university or college. Senior Year in IB Visual Arts will entail refinement and completion of the Process Portfolio and Comparative Study. Seniors will also be required to complete a cohesive body of work for the Exhibition portion of the IB Assessment and an accompanying Curatorial Rationale.
    Units of Study
    Comparative Study
    Exhibition:  Planning and Creating
    Curatorial Rationale

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  • Notes on Advanced Placement (AP Courses)

    ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) denotes courses which are part of the curriculum of the College Entrance Examination Board. They are designed to allow students to do college-level work in high school. To be admitted to AP courses, the student must meet prerequisites.

    Academic Expectations: Students are expected to maintain at least a C average at the end of the first semester.

    Exam Expectations: Students are expected to take the AP exam at the end of the year. A fee applies to all students taking an AP exam.

    For additional academic information regarding grading scales, exams, progress reports, etc., please consult the Student-Parent Handbook (login will be sent to new students in Mid-August).

  • Notes on International Baccalaureate (IB) Courses

    INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) is a two-year, intellectually challenging curriculum with an international perspective for students in grades 11 and 12. The IB diploma candidate takes six IB tests in the following subject areas: English, Social Studies, World Language, Mathematics, Science and an elective. In addition, each student writes a 4,000-word essay and fulfills an extra-curricular and community service requirement. A valuable component of the program is a course called Theory of Knowledge, which teaches how knowledge is acquired and validated.

    Academic Expectations: Students are expected to maintain at least a C average at the end of the first semester in SL courses and at the end of the first year of HL courses.

    Exam Expectations: Students enrolled in IB courses are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking an IB exam.

    Additional Note about Course Selection and Exam Decisions: Students in an IB SL course in grade 11 who plan to continue HL in grade 12 are encouraged to take the IB SL exam for formative assessment and for a contingency plan. If a student is unable to take the IB SL exam due to IB requirements or special circumstances, the student will take a mock IB SL exam before the end of the school year. If the student does not continue with HL in grade 12, the mock exam will contribute 25% of the student’s second semester grade in the SL subject.

Faculty

Trinity Episcopal School

3850 PITTAWAY DR | RICHMOND VA 23235-1099 | Phone: 804.272.5864 | Fax: 804.272.5865 Email: mail@trinityes.org