Open Studies Course Registration

Grades K-2: Dive into the world of textures! In this hands-on class, students will explore rough, smooth, soft, and bumpy surfaces while experimenting with a variety of 2D and 3D materials. They’ll learn how to use texture as a design element to add depth, meaning, and emotion to their artwork. Theme based art activities will encourage sensory exploration and creativity, helping students become more aware of the tactile world around them.

Grades 3-5: In this printmaking course, young artists will explore the exciting world of creating prints! Focusing on monoprinting, they’ will learn how to create one-of-a-kind prints using various materials, from creating textured designs on plates to stamping and pressing patterns. Through fun and easy projects, students will experiment with color, texture, and repetition to make their own prints on paper, fabric, and various surfaces. Sample projects include creating colorful “Monoprint Flowers” using paint and stencils, and making “Patterned Prints” with simple found objects like sponges and fabric. This course introduces kids to the magic of printmaking while fostering creativity and an understanding of basic artistic techniques.

Grades K-2: Explore the rich diversity of global art through hands-on projects inspired by cultural traditions from around the world. Students will learn about the history and significance of various art forms, such as African textile patterns, Japanese ink painting, and Aboriginal dot art, while creating their own unique pieces. Emphasis will be placed on understanding and respecting the cultures behind the art, fostering appreciation without imitation. Through storytelling, symbolism, and personal expression, students will develop creativity, curiosity, and a deeper connection to the world of art.

Grades 3-5: Step into a world of imagination and creativity! This course invites students to explore fantasy, mythology, and magical landscapes through art. From enchanted forests and mythical creatures to glowing galaxies and mystical maps, students will bring their stories to life while learning foundational art techniques. They'll explore concepts like foreground, middle ground, and background, and discover how symbolism and storytelling can transform their artwork into magical masterpieces.

Grades 6-8: In this course, students will explore the art of color blending and value to create depth and dimension in their artwork. They’ll learn to use warm and cool colors to influence mood and contrast, and experiment with different color schemes to bring their ideas to life. Assignments include creating a “Color Mood Board” where students develop palettes that reflect different emotions, painting a “Cool vs. Warm” landscape to compare temperature effects, and designing a “Gradient Portrait” that uses color blending techniques to highlight shading and light. Through these activities, students will gain a deeper understanding of color theory and its expressive power.

Grades 6-8: This fibers course will teach students various processes including weaving, quilting, felting, and spinning. They will learn how to process raw fibers into fabric in several ways and explore what can be done with excess fabric through upcycling. With a focus on sustainability and an appreciation of craft, the class will explore both personal and world histories of our materials and processes. We will work together to reflect the community histories of many of these techniques. Students will learn how to replicate these processes at home and will leave with an understanding of the versatility of fibers and the interconnectedness of this media.

Grades 9-12: This course uses creative expression to help students explore their emotions, build self-awareness, and strengthen connections with others. Through engaging art projects, students will reflect on their feelings, develop empathy, and learn strategies for self-regulation and stress relief. The course integrates mindfulness practices into art-making, emphasizing emotional expression, collaboration, and personal growth. Topics include using color and form to convey emotions, creating collaborative projects to build teamwork, and developing resilience through creative self-reflection. Perfect for all skill levels, this class nurtures both creativity and well-being.

Grade 9-12: This course is designed for super-motivated students who want to learn creative video making. Students are idea-generators, scriptwriters, prop creators and actors in this exciting production. Fundamentals of video making are learned through exercises in writing, shooting, and editing. In addition, students learn how to plan a complex project, research a subject, create a storyboard and work as a member of a production team. Reviewing and discussing the work is an ongoing part of the program. Students work in small groups to produce their final projects.