The Visual Arts Department at Woodland High offers a variety of courses that are described below.

Two-Dimensional Art Classes:

Drawing (prerequisite = none, this is an introductory class for 2-D art)

Drawing covers the basic elements of art and teaches skills and control in a variety of art media (materials). Some color work is also introduced. Learning how to create a realistic self-portrait is an example of work required in Drawing.

Painting (prerequisite = Drawing- teacher approval required)

  Painting teaches the principles of design and exposes the student to a variety of art   media such as tempera, watercolor, tube acrylics and oils. Color, color mixing, and ways to apply color are explored in Painting. Creating a landscape painting using only variations of the color brown is an example of work required.

Visual Arts Comprehensive I (prerequisites = Drawing & Painting)

 V. Arts Comp.I is an advanced class that includes print making and fabric design. It requires that students develop a concentration and style in their own art. Students are not often assigned projects at this level; rather, they develop their own interests in creating art that is personal.

Visual Arts Comprehensive II (prerequisites = Drawing, Painting, & V. Arts Comp. I)

 V. Arts Comp. II carries on the development of student concentrations and artistic styles. It includes the exploration of weaving and found object design. Students are also allowed to create artwork that shows strength in a variety of art types. This course is a student-centered learning environment.

IB Art I and II (prerequisites= none, but students would greatly benefit from Drawing or Pottery)

IB art is an option for the IB student's sixth subject. This 11th grade course requires two years of commitment, with students earning four units in visual arts by the end of their senior year. IB art is for students who love to explore, look at, and create art. A high degree of technical art skills is not required for success in IB art. Students will be expected to record art research that connects to their own art creations in a workbook.

Pre AP and AP Studio Art (prerequisites = Drawing & Painting for 2-D work, Pottery I & II for 3-D)

The AP Studio Art portfolios are designed for students who are seriously interested in creating great art. This 12th grade course involves a huge commitment and requires well developed art skills, so the program is not for the casually interested. Students will need to work outside the classroom, as well as in it, and beyond scheduled periods. The AP Studio course conforms to College Board specifications in that a required number of original works and slides will be evaluated. There are three testing options in AP Studio Art: Drawing, 2-D Design, and 3-D Design.

Three-Dimensional Art Classes:

Pottery I (prerequisites = none, this is an introductory class for 3-D art)

 Pottery I introduces the three main hand building methods (coil, slab, and, pinch) used in creating pottery from terra cotta clay. Surface decoration and glazing are also covered in the course. As a final exam in slab building, students will create a miniature house with siding and shingles.

Pottery II (prerequisites = Pottery I- teacher approval required)

Pottery II continues work with coils, slabs, and pinching, and adds combination   building methods. Wheel throwing techniques are also introduced. In Pottery II, students begin constructing sets of plates and vases. Sculptural elements are also included. Students will design and construct a set of four plates with attached sculptures of their choice.

Pottery III, IV (prerequisites = Pottery I and II)

 These advanced pottery classes are for the serious potter. Pottery III allows students to develop a concentration and style in their 3-D work. The development of wheel throwing skills continues, as well as independent work in sculpting clay.  Pottery IV is a student-centered class, with an emphasis on preliminary planning.

Lastly, this program of study also offers the possibility of earning a Visual Arts Diploma Seal after eight units are completed. Five of the classes listed above (any group, any combination) must be passed with a "B" average or better in order to qualify. Three additional units may be related arts classes. More information on additional seal requirements may be obtained from a Visual Arts teacher.

The Visual Arts classes at WHS are a proven award winning program of study. Past Visual Arts students have received awards on the state and national level. Students who love art and want to learn more about art are welcomed!


Missy Jenkins

Catheirne Johnson

WHS Art Educators