This semester-long class introduces students to fundamental methods of forming clay. Students learn the basic techniques for hand-building (pinch pot, slab construction, and coil construction) and develop essential techniques for throwing pots on the potter’s wheel. The class emphasizes craftsmanship, creativity and an appreciation for the elements that are inherent to well-made ceramic art. Students learn how to finish their pieces with various types of glaze and decorating techniques. They are also encouraged to experiment—to develop personal ideas and to create works of art that solve visual problems.

This intermediate course covers more comprehensive techniques for wheel-throwing geometric forms and gives an overview of hand-building methods, providing students with skills needed to approach clay as a sculptural medium. Working from observation and drawing enhances students’ ability to translate lines into three-dimensional forms. Students acquire a thorough understanding of the nature of clay, glazes, and ceramic processes and equipment, and they analyze the effective use of elements, principles, and media in works of art.

This course provides an introduction to sophisticated glazing and decoration techniques. By exploring new techniques for wheel throwing, students can execute larger scale and more elaborate pieces such as a functioning and ergonomically designed teapot. Some projects are process driven and lead to the discovery of new three-dimensional forms and ideas. Wearable art projects using precious metal clay incorporate skills of formation and design on a smaller scale. Students also engage in critical thinking and writing to improve the understanding of their work and the work of others, including art encountered on class field trips.

Prerequisite: Ceramics 1.

This advanced class focuses on exploring various sources of inspiration and then developing individual projects suited to students’ unique tastes and artistic vision. Tableware, architectural ornamentation, public art or other dimensional work chosen by students provides the context for self-designed projects. The course emphasizes creative interpretation, invention, and collaboration. Working with the instructor, students may apply any technical process needed to fabricate their work, which may lead to learning a brand-new skill. Field trips to artists’ studios or visiting artists enhance students’ knowledge and appreciation of ceramic art. Prerequisite: two previous years of ceramics classes at Flintridge Prep.

Fourth-year ceramics students work independently with the instructor to develop and complete self-directed projects. The goal is to produce a conceptually sophisticated, innovative and unified body of work, emphasizing both personal expression and artisanship. Students may use all appropriate ceramic techniques and processes. Projects, for example, may include multiples in a set, abstract or figurative sculpture, surface design and more. Significant creative growth occurs through individual mentoring. Prerequisite: Three previous years of ceramics classes at Flintridge Prep.

In this introductory, quarter-long art course students learn to see as an artist through playful activities that challenge the imagination while introducing a range of materials, media and techniques. We explore the elements of art (line, shape, form, value, space, texture and color), and create a collaborative comic book that incorporates these elements. Class discussions will revolve around ways that artists see and express themselves.

In this semester-long course students explore a variety of disciplines in art and design with an emphasis on self-expression and communication. Eighth graders create a collaborative mural, make a multicolor print of a monster based on a greatest fear, draft an isometric future city inspired by video game design, and shoot stop-motion animations using paper cutouts, clay and everyday objects. Throughout the semester, students initiate and develop concepts and learn to communicate ideas through precisely articulated design choices.

This course emphasizes foundation drawing skills including observational drawing and drafting techniques. The beginning of the course is focused on contour, organizational lines, perspective, proportion and value. Students also explore stencilry by creating a site-specific stencil design intended to transform the meaning of a campus location. In addition, students  create color pencil film stills and a collaborative watercolor project exploring personal style.

Intermediate students engage in a broader exploration of drawing and an introduction to painting with an emphasis on color and how it can be applied to support more sophisticated concepts and aesthetic choices. Projects include collaborative collage abstractions, album redesigns and explorations of traditional modes of art making such as acrylic and pastels.

This advanced course begins with an introduction to oil painting using alla prima and indirect glazing techniques. Students learn the basics of color theory and learn to apply it in fast explorations of objects and figures. The second semester of the course emphasizes self-direction, meaningful expression, and individual portfolio development. Students experience the work of both contemporary and historical artists through slide presentations, visiting artist lectures, and field trips to galleries and museums.

This course guides students through AP Drawing, a year-long immersive experience for motivated seniors interested in developing a body of work for submission to the College Board. It is structured to support and expand on the AP assessment guidelines, including competence in design skills, technique and the development of a thematic body of work. Class meetings offer opportunities for students to explore historic and contemporary artists and experiment with sophisticated art-making techniques. In addition, frequent discussions hone critical skills and help students practice synthesizing input to improve their work. The AP experience gives passionate art students a better understanding of the visual arts as a means of personal expression.

Placement is based on performance, submission of a portfolio, and teacher recommendation. Prerequisites: Three years of visual art at Flintridge Prep in the medium.