Elements of art are introduced with a focus on line, color and texture in both two- dimensional and three dimensional projects. The Art History timeline begins with cave paintings with stops in ancient Mexico for ceramics, the Middle Ages for mosaics, the Renaissance for Stained Glass, and painting and drawing in the Modern Era.
Color relationships are formalized with the color wheel; primary and secondary colors as well as warm and cool colors are discovered. Line, value, shape and pattern are identified and integrated into projects. The Art History timeline includes nature paintings inspired by Henri Rousseau, assemblage sculpture, and coiled pottery.
Shape and form are added to line, color, value and texture in the identification of the elements of art. Observation of nature and the environment include still life drawing and weather paintings. The Art History timeline stops in a primal rainforest where birds and animals inhabit original landscapes. Impressionism, Cubism, and Realism are identified as Modern art styles through the study of Monet, Picasso and Homer.
Line, color, value, texture, shape and form are explored more deeply. The concept and practice of space in two dimensional and three dimensional projects is introduced along with the principles of design of balance and emphasis. Projects include the building of Medieval castles, African textile weavings, and self-portraits.
Asymmetrical and radial balance, complex patterns, proportion and movement are implemented as principles of design in two and three-dimensional projects. One-point perspective is introduced as well as digital photography. Some projects themes covered are visual symbols and contour drawing. The Art History timeline swept through ancient Mayan and Incan culture with a special mask-making project, and into the 20th century with wire mobiles inspired by Alexander Calder.
Unity and variety are introduced as principles of design with emphasis on color, shape, contrast and details. All elements and principles of art are committed to memory. Written and oral critiques reach maturity as the language of art is implemented through two and three- dimensional projects incorporating perspective and advanced color mixing. Paper cutting with matte knives and digital editing are introduced. Special projects include Panamanian paper molas, photo-realistic self-portraits, and pop art sculptures inspired by Warhol and Oldenburg.