Academics
Departments & Curriculum

Department Picker

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 (2020-21)

  • Design Fundamentals - Grades 8-10

    .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 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 process. 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

  • Elements of Drawing and Painting - Grades 8-12

    .5 Credit
    Required Tools:  Sketchbook
    This introductory semester course explores various art making techniques in the disciplines of drawing, painting, printmaking and cut paper/collage. Students start with foundational drawing skills in pencil and build upon those skills in various media such as colored pencils, tempera and acrylic paint, printmaking and x-acto knife techniques. We will cover a variety of topics including color theory, composition, highlights and shadows and creating dimension and space. Incorporating art history and critique, Students will learn about the elements of art and principles of design and how to appropriately discuss art as well as building on their abilities to create purposeful works of art.
    Units of Study
    Introduction to the Elements of Art & Principles of Design
    Drawing in Pencil: Drawing/Shading/Highlight/Value/Contours/Dimension/Still Life
    Colored Pencil Techniques: Blending Color and Shading/Values/Highlights
    Painting Technique: Color Theory/Making and Mixing Colors/Highlights/Shadows/Tints/Shades/Acrylic Painting
    Printmaking: Linoleum Cuts & Prints
    Group Critique: Using the Elements of Art as a Language.
    Sketchbook: Warm Ups and Studies/Notes/Practice
    Mounting a Show: Prepping Finished Work.
    Executing a Show: Creating Artist’s Statements, Labels, and Hanging Work
    Collaborative Display- Setting up, Arranging and Taking Down Work in a Large Group/Public Setting

  • Advanced Drawing and Painting - Grades 8-12

    .5 Credit
    Prerequisite: Elements of Drawing or teacher permission for transfer students
    Required Tools:  Sketchbook
    This semester course will expand upon the media of drawing, painting and printmaking from the Elements of Drawing and Painting class. Students will continue to build upon their skills by adding a more in-depth approach to drawing in pencil and adding charcoal and chalk pastel into their repertoire. We will also explore pen & ink, colored pencil and painting- working in techniques they have learned and are interested in pursuing. Students will continue to work in the printmaking medium, now exploring wood cuts and other printing techniques. Continuing to build their vocabulary and ability to “read” art, as well as create it, students in this class will learn some art history and critique. This course is required before the end of sophomore year in order to take IB Visual Arts HL.
    Units of Study
    Review of the Elements of Art & Principles of Design
    Review of Drawing Techniques in Pencil
    Review Colored Pencil Techniques: Blending
    Pen & Ink Techniques
    Charcoal Techniques
    Chalk Pastel Techniques
    Painting Technique: Acrylic Painting and other Wet Media 
    Printmaking: Wood Cuts & Prints and other Printing Media
    Group Critique
    Sketchbook: Warm ups and Studies/Notes/Practice
    Mounting a Show: Prepping Finished Work.
    Executing a Show: Creating Artist’s Statements, Labels, and Hanging Work
    Collaborative Display- Setting up, Arranging and Taking Down Work in a Large Group/Public Setting

  • Drawing & Painting Studio Workshop - Grades 10-12

    .5 Credit
    Prerequisites:   Elements of Drawing & Painting & Advanced Drawing & Painting and teacher recommendation
    Required Tools:  Sketchbook
    This course follows Elements of Drawing and Painting and Advanced Drawing and Painting and is designed particularly for students who have an interest in 2D art, but are not pursuing the IB 2D path. New techniques will be built upon and honed in a more in depth, yet more independent path. Students will be able to explore and research techniques that they are interested in learning, and pursue these new techniques, with teacher help, by practicing and creating art in that media. Each student will show their work at the end of semester art show. This class will require that students are prepared to push their skills to the next level and show a strong independent work ethic. Students are expected to make critical judgements of their work and challenge their creative process. Students must have a current (within the school year) recommendation to take the course. This course may be repeated for credit with the instructor’s permission.
    Units of Study
    Independent Research and Completion of a Dry Media Project
    Independent Research and Completion of a Wet Media Project 
    Mixed Media Project 
    Discover Your Path to the Art Show

  • Elements of Ceramics - Grades 8-12

    .5 Credit
    Required Tools: 9x12 bound, blank page sketchbook
    This semester course provides an overview and introduction into the process and practice of ceramics. Students will explore ceramic techniques and processes while applying three-dimensional design concepts and terminology. The students will learn hand building and wheel thrown techniques as well as how to trim their pots. Students will also learn and experiment with a variety of surface treatments, glazes, and firing techniques. Emphasis is placed on skill development, studio practices, quality craftsmanship, experimentation, creative problem solving, and self-expression. At the end of the semester, students will participate in a show through which work will be featured on a website they will build and design themselves. These websites will include a gallery of student photographs of their work, videos of their journey, style or technique, sketchbook pages and an artist statement.
    Units of Study
    Handbuilding Techniques:Pinch Pot, Coil Building, Slabs
    Wheel Thrown Techniques: Cylinders, Bowls, Plates
    Discover Your Path to the Art Show

  • Advanced Ceramics - Grade 10

    .5 Credit
    Prerequisites: Design Fundamentals, Elements of Ceramics and teacher permission
    This course will address the three major areas of ceramics: understanding ceramic materials, hand-built and wheel-thrown pottery and surface resolution techniques. Approximately 75 percent of the students’ class time will be spent on the potter’s wheel. Emphasis is placed on developing independent skills,
    knowledge of process and materials and mastering the craft. Advanced Ceramics is for students committed to gaining independence,skill and knowledge in the field. Self-discipline and a willingness to seek new challenges are expected. Students continue to make critical judgements about their own art and the art of others. They are exposed to the historical and contemporary role of pottery from various cultures throughout
    the world.
    Units of Study
    Review of Basic Forms
    Hans Coper, Architectural Sculpture
    Lidded Forms
    Surface Treatment
    Alternative Firing Processes

  • Advanced Sculpture - Grade 10

    .5 Credit
    Prerequisite: Design Fundamentals, Elements of Ceramics and teacher permission
    This 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 judgements 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, plaster, paper, wood, cardboard, wire and metal. Basic three-dimensional design will be considered with an emphasis on the elements and principles of design.
    Units of Study
    Carving Process
    Plaster
    Cultural Mask
    Found Objects
    Post Secret

  • Ceramic Studio Workshop - Grades 9-12

    .5 Credit
    Prerequisites: Elements of Ceramics and teacher recommendation
    Required Tools: 9 x12 bound, blank page sketchbook
    This course follows Elements of Ceramics and is designed particularly for students who have an interest in ceramics but are not pursuing the IB path. New techniques will be built upon the skills learned in Elements of Ceramics, such as: handles, lids, combination pieces, shaping clay, throwing larger as well as alternate firing and glazing methods. Students will participate in an end of the semester art show and will showcase this show and their semester of growth on a website including photographs, a video and an artist statement. This class will require that students are prepared to push their skills to the next level and show a strong independent work ethic. Students are expected to make critical judgements of their work and challenge their creative process. Students must have a current (within the school year) recommendation to take the course. This course may be repeated for credit with the instructor’s permission.
    Units of Study
    Independent Handbuilding Project
    Independent Wheel Thrown project 
    Teapot Project
    Discover Your Path to the Art Show

  • Elements of Photography - Grades 8-12

    .5 Credit
    This studio course provides an overview and introduction into the fundamentals of photography as a fine art. Through demonstrations and practice, students learn the technical aspects of manual camera operation for proper exposures and the traditional black and white processes for developing film and printing in the darkroom. While exploring the expressive potential of the medium, students will engage with a variety of subject matter and learn compositional techniques to achieve engaging photographs. This course emphasizes technical proficiency and individual artistic expression. No prior experience is necessary to take this introductory level course. The camera and materials are provided for this course. 
    Units of Study
    Camera Operation
    Developing 35mm Film
    Darkroom Operation and Creating Enlargements
    Projects
    Critiques
    Art Show
    Alternative Processes
    Artist Presentations
    Artist Websites

  • Advanced Digital Photography - Grade 9-12

    .5 Credit
    Prerequisite: Elements of Photography
    Required Tools:  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 Mrs. Minehart for additional information.
    This course builds on skills learned in Elements of Photography while applying them to the digital photography platform. In addition to continuing camera skills proficiency, students will learn lighting techniques, color management, effective digital workflow in Adobe Bridge, and manipulation techniques utilizing Adobe Photoshop. Working to further refine their personal style and explore photography as a creative medium, students begin to develop a body of work based around their personal interests and artistic vision. This class is for students interested in continuing to pursue photography after Elements as well as students who want to learn digital image manipulation, a critical skill in a wide range of professions.

    Units of Study
    Digital Camera Operation and Digital File Management
    Lighting Workshop
    Adobe Photoshop
    Individual Semester Project
    Art Show
    Artist Presentations
    Artist Websites

  • Photography Studio Workshop - Grades 10-12

    .5 Credit
    Prerequisites:   Elements of Photography and teacher permission
    Required Tools:  In addition to using their cameras from Advanced Digital Photography, students will need a 35mm film camera. The cost to purchase one of these cameras is around $100. Options for film cameras will be discussed at the start of the class. If either of these camera requirements presents an obstacle for enrolling in the class, accommodations may be available. For additional information, speak to Mrs. Minehart.

    This course is designed particularly for students in 10th, 11th and 12th grade who have an interest in photography, but are 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. Students will incorporate both the analog and digital platforms as they continue to refine their technique and develop their ability to utilize photography as an expressive art medium. Students will have the opportunity to experiment with alternative processes throughout the semester. Students are expected to make critical judgements of their work, and others work, to challenge their own 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 Reintroduction
    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

  • Visual Arts Intern - Grades 11-12

    .5 Credit
    Prerequisite:  3 semesters of Visual Arts courses:  Elements, Advanced, Studio Workshop; Application 
    This class is designed for the student who wants 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 2 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 & Utensils
    Best Practices in Studio Management

  • IB Visual Arts - 2D - Grade 11

    1 Credit
    Prerequisites:  IB Visual Arts - 2D is open to Juniors who have fulfilled all required pre-IB art electives, who have demonstrated maturity, commitment and dedication to visual arts, and who have written an essay of intent and have the permission of the teacher. Pre-IB art electives for 2D include: Elements of Drawing and Painting, Advanced Drawing and Painting, and Design Fundamentals.  
    Additional Fee:  IB examination fees will be incurred 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. 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. The visual arts program consists of several linked compulsory parts, studio work, a process portfolio, an artist comparative study, and a final exhibition. The studio work is a practical exploration and artistic production. The process portfolio is a slide presentation demonstrating exploration in at least three different art making forms. It contains visual and written information: illustrating process, investigation, communication of ideas and reflection. The comparative study engages students in the practice of critical investigation of two artists from different cultural backgrounds, different time periods, and different mediums. The exhibition includes examples of resolved work that show evidence of technical accomplishment and experimentation, which includes a curatorial rationale explaining presentation, innovations, and overall impact.
    Units of Study
    Process Portfolio
    Exhibition Texts
    Group Critiques and Self Critique
    Comparative Study
    Winter Art Show & Spring Art Show: Collaborative Display
    Artist’s Statements and Exhibition Text

  • IB Visual Arts HL - 2D - Grade 12

    1 Credit
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB Visual Arts - 2D
    Additional Fee:  Students in this course are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam.

    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. The visual arts program consists of several linked compulsory parts, studio work, a process portfolio, an artist comparative study, and a final exhibition. The studio work is a practical exploration and artistic production.The process portfolio is a slide presentation demonstrating the exploration in at least three different art making forms. It contains visual and written information: illustrating process, investigation, communication of ideas, and reflection. The comparative study engages students in the critical investigation of two artists from different cultural backgrounds, different time periods, and different mediums. The exhibition includes examples of resolved work that show evidence of technical accomplishment, which includes a curatorial rationale explaining presentation, innovations, and overall impact.
     
     
     
    Units of Study
    Final Comparative Study
    Final Process Portfolio
    Group Critique and Self Critique
    Winter Art Show Collaborative Display
    Artist’s Statements and Exhibition Text
    Final Exhibition
    Curatorial Rationale
    Spring Trinity Fine Arts Festival: Final Group Show

  • IB Visual Arts - 3D - Grade 11

    1 Credit
    Prerequisite: IB Visual Arts - 3D is open to Juniors who have fulfilled all required pre-IB art electives, who have demonstrated maturity, commitment and dedication to visual arts, and who have written an essay of intent and have the permission of the teacher. Pre-IB art electives for 3D include:  Design Fundamentals, Elements of Ceramics, and Advanced Ceramics or Advanced Sculpture. 
    Additional Fee:  IB examination 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. 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. The visual arts program consists of several linked compulsory parts, studio work, a process portfolio, an artist comparative study, and a final exhibition. The studio work is a practical exploration and artistic production.The process portfolio is a slide presentation demonstrating the exploration in at least different art making forms. It contains visual and written information, illustrating process, investigation, communication of ideas and reflection. The comparative study engages students in the critical investigation of two artists from different cultural backgrounds, different time periods, and different mediums. The exhibition includes examples of resolved work that show evidence of technical accomplishment which includes a curatorial rationale explaining presentation, innovations, and overall impact.
    Units of Study
    Understanding the Comparative Study
    Understanding the Process Portfolio
    Resolved Work
    Exhibition

  • IB Visual Arts HL - 3D - Grade 12

    1 Credit
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB Visual Arts - 3D Additional Fee:  Students in this course are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam.
     
    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. The visual arts program consists of several linked compulsory parts, studio work, a process portfolio, an artist comparative study, and a final exhibition. The studio work is a practical exploration and artistic production.The process portfolio is a slide presentation demonstrating the exploration in at least different art making forms. It contains visual and written information, illustrating process, investigation, communication of ideas and reflection. The comparative study engages students in the critical investigation of two artist from different cultural backgrounds, different time periods, and different mediums. The exhibition includes examples of resolved work that show evidence of technical accomplishment which includes a curatorial rationale explaining presentation, innovations, and overall impact.
    Units of Study
    Comparative Study
    Process Portfolio
    Resolved Work
    Exhibition

  • IB Visual Arts - Photography - Grade 11

    1 Credit
    Prerequisites: IB Visual Arts - Photography is open to Juniors who have fulfilled all required pre-IB art electives, who have demonstrated maturity, commitment and dedication to visual arts, and who have written an essay of intent and have the permission of the instructor.  Pre-IB art electives for photography include: Elements of Photography, Advanced Digital Photography, and Design Fundamentals.
    Required Tools:  In addition to using their cameras from Advanced Digital Photography, students will need a 35mm film camera. The cost to purchase one of these cameras is around $100. Options for film cameras will be discussed at the start of the class. If either of these camera requirements presents an obstacle for enrolling in the class, accommodations may be available. For additional information, speak to Mrs. Minehart.
    Additional Fee:  IB examination fees will be incurred 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. The visual arts program consists of several linked compulsory parts, studio work, a process portfolio, an artist comparative study, and a final exhibition. The studio work is a practical exploration and artistic production.The process portfolio is a slide presentation demonstrating the exploration in at least different art making forms. It contains visual and written information, illustrating process, investigation, communication of ideas and reflection. The comparative study engages students in the critical investigation of two artists from different cultural backgrounds, different time periods, and different mediums. The exhibition includes examples of resolved work that show evidence of technical accomplishment which includes a curatorial rationale explaining presentation, innovations, and overall impact.  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.
    Units of Study
    Process Portfolio
    Comparative Study
    Exhibition

  • IB Visual Arts HL - Photography - Grade 12

    1 Credit
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB Visual Arts - Photography
    Required Tools:  The digital camera and 35mm film cameras from previous photography courses will be used again in this class.
    Additional Fee:  Students in this course are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam.
    This IB Visual Arts course is the second year of a two-year program for diploma or course candidates. The visual arts program consists of several linked compulsory parts, studio work, a process portfolio, an artist comparative study, and a final exhibition. The studio work is a practical exploration and artistic production. The process portfolio is a slide presentation demonstrating the exploration in at least different art making forms. It contains visual and written information, illustrating process, investigation, communication of ideas and reflection. The comparative study engages students in the critical investigation of two artist from different cultural backgrounds, different time periods, and different mediums. The exhibition includes examples of resolved work that show evidence of technical accomplishment which includes a curatorial rationale explaining presentation, innovations, and overall impact.  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.
    Units of Study
    Comparative Study
    Exhibition

List of 2 items.

  • 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 Drive | Richmond, Virginia 23235 Phone: 804.272.5864 Fax: (804) 320-1362  Email: mail@trinityes.org