Open Studies Course Registration

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: In this course, young artists explore how art appears in everyday places close to home. Students will create projects inspired by murals, signs, patterns, celebrations, and handmade objects found in neighborhoods and communities. Using drawing, painting, collage, and simple sculptural materials, students will design their own plans for murals, create symbolic flags or banners, and make art that tells a story about people and places. The course emphasizes observation, storytelling, and personal connection, helping students understand how art reflects community life and shared experiences.

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: This introductory fiber arts course introduces students to working with soft materials through simple, hands-on projects. Students will explore basic techniques such as wrapping, knotting, and simple weaving while learning how fibers can be used to create both functional and decorative pieces. Emphasis is placed on creativity, texture, and color rather than technical mastery. Over five days, students will complete a small finished project and gain an appreciation for fiber arts as a creative medium.

Grades 6-8: In this course, students practice the art of telling stories through pictures. Formal aspects of the narrative are applied by combining the written word with visual sequences. Students learn how storylines are developed, formats are considered and characters created. Observation skill-building helps students develop a basis for their fantasy figures, heroes, and heroines. Each student explores animation techniques and produces a comic strip consisting of several frames as well as a multi-page comic book.

Grades 6-8: This course focuses on strengthening foundational drawing skills by teaching students how to observe and translate what they see onto paper. Students will learn techniques for measuring proportions, understanding basic perspective, and using line, shape, and shading to create realistic drawings. Projects may include still life studies, object and texture sketches, and simple architectural or interior drawings. Using pencils, charcoal, and ink, students will practice capturing form, depth, and detail while building visual awareness and confidence in their drawing abilities.

Grades 9-12: Animators have told many stories through paper, clay, and pixelation. In this course, students will explore ways to tell their own stories and make their images come to life one frame at a time. Students are encouraged to bring their own devices to participate in this course. A phone or iPad with a working camera is preferred.

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.

Grades 9-12: In this course, students will delve into the fascinating world of character design, exploring not only the physical aspects but also delving into the rich realm of personalities, facial expressions, and living environments. Focused on figure drawing, individuality, and personality traits, students will develop the skills needed to accurately portray their characters' unique qualities. Students will learn to craft a visual narrative and how to design compelling characters that extend beyond the physical appearance.

Grades 9-12: In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of portraiture, with a focus on analyzing the planes of the face and creating striking compositions through dramatic lighting and deep shadows. They will explore a variety of 2D materials and learn how markmaking can convey a range of emotions in their portraits. Through out the course, students will refine their ability to capture the essence of their subject while mastering drawing techniques that emphasize bold contrasts, dynamic light, and sculptural forms of the human face.