Visual Arts

In Foundations of Design, Multimedia Arts, and Digital Communications A, students are introduced to the variety of programs and occupations in the arts, audio and video technology, and communication systems. Within this context, students will be expected to develop an understanding of the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills and educational requirements for those opportunities.

In Foundations of Design, Multimedia Arts and Digital Communications B, students are introduced to the variety of programs and occupations in the arts, audio/video technology, and communication systems. Within this context, students will be expected to develop an understanding of the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills and educational requirements for those opportunities.

In Foundations of Design, Multimedia Arts, and Digital Communications A- Photography, students are introduced to the variety of programs and occupations in the arts, audio and video technology, and communication systems. Within this context, students will be expected to develop an understanding of the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities.

This Commercial Photography I course focuses on studio-based photography. Students will learn basic DSLR camera operations, framing and the art of styling and lighting for professional photo shoots. Projects will include various print advertisements and studio work. Students will learn about careers in related to commercial photography and the postsecondary programs and requirements within Colorado. Some examples of jobs in this area are photographer, graphic designer and stylist. Students will complete a number of projects and design pieces to be added to personal portfolios.

Graphic Design and Illustration I is an entry-level course for training in the visual communication portion of all media businesses. Students learn about a career in the many kinds of media and graphic design and illustration jobs. Digital photography and working towards the intermediate level use of image editing and drawing programs are strongly focused upon in this class. This is helpful for any future photographer, videographer, animator or advertiser. Students will begin developing a high-quality portfolio for college or design school.

Commercial Photography II emphasizes the needs of commercial photographers with regard to technical expertise, creativity, and professional equipment. Technical aspects include film-to-digital transfer, lighting, digital image manipulation, alternative processes, large-format camera work and stock photography. Creative exploration of subject matter, lighting, color theory and other psychological characteristics in the development of images are studied. A variety of photographic equipment is utilized for the studio and on location. Basic darkroom procedures such as film processing, contact printing, and enlarging will be covered. Students are expected to create a portfolio of work for both print and electronic formats.

Design portfolios are expanded upon and improved in this second year of Graphic Design and Illustration. There is study of college art and media programs. More time is spent learning advanced concepts in illustration and the advertising and media business as well as new software programs while continuing to hone skills in image editing and digital photography. Large-format printing of projects is common in this class.

Designed for students with a serious interest in art, the AP Studio Art and 2D Design course enables students to refine their skills and create artistic works to be submitted to the College Board for evaluation. Students are asked to demonstrate proficiency in 2D design using a variety of art forms. These could include but are not limited to, graphic design, typography, digital imaging, photography, collage, fabric design, weaving, illustration, painting or printmaking. This type of design involves purposeful decision-making about how to use the elements and principles of art in an integrative way with the entire spectrum of ideas.

This course allows for individualized, advanced or cumulative work in a program of study. This work is individualized to the student within a specific program of study to allow for specialized study. It may include problem- and project-based learning or preparation for industry certification. The specific content and course design is determined by the instructor, in collaboration with the individual student.

Practicum in Commercial Photography is recommended for students who have completed Commercial Photography II. This course is meant to serve students interested in further development of a professional portfolio in addition to further development of skills and technical knowledge. Students will be expected to further develop knowledge and awareness of the industry of commercial photography. Instruction may be delivered through lab-based classroom experiences and career preparation opportunities.