Selections from 2015/16 

2016/17

2016/17

2015/16

Look for hints of the Japanese aesthetic, which includes but is not limited to: Asymmetry, a respectful nod to the natural world, refined craftsmanship,“wabi” (transient and stark beauty), “sabi" (the beauty of natural patina and aging), and “yūgen” (profound grace and subtlety).

2016/17

2014/15

2016/17

2015/16

2014/15

The human form has been studied, drawn, and sculpted throughout history. It is easy to understand, therefore, why figure drawing is an art class staple. 

Drawing from life allows students to comprehend how 3-dimensional forms occupy space and how this concept can be visually represented on a 2-dimensional picture plane. Synthesizing the relationships between form and light is essential in this process. 

After a super-quick (and I mean super-quick!) intro./review of figure drawing, Art II students drew a professional model by using white chalk on black paper. In this way, they were challenged to reverse their normal way of thinking about drawing; instead of drawing the shadows, they drew the highlights instead.

The still life has been represented throughout art history in many ways and for many reasons. In this case, it presented a good opportunity for Art II students to review the elements of art /principles of design, drawing and shading skills, and composition. Students selected a composition using a view finder and a creative, well-trained eye. Various pen and ink and ink wash techniques were practiced before starting on the final drawing. Between the compositional differences and the varied ways that students utilized the media to apply value, each drawing is a unique and personal work of art.

The still life has been represented throughout art history in many ways and for many reasons. In this case, it presented a good opportunity for Art II students to review the elements of art /principles of design, drawing and shading skills, and composition. Students selected a composition using a view finder and a creative, well-trained eye. Various pen and ink and ink wash techniques were practiced before starting on the final drawing. Between the compositional differences and the varied ways that students utilized the media to apply value, each drawing is a unique and personal work of art.

James Rosenquist got his start as a billboard painter in the  late 1950s. His transition into the world of Pop Art was inspired by the advertising imagery that he worked with on a daily basis. His collage-like painting style juxtaposed varied and appropriated imagery in purposeful ways.

Contemporary artist, Jeff Koons, uses some similar stylistic choices to present his ideas. His imagery is also appropriated and is collaged digitally before being enlarged dramatically and replicated in photorealistic detail by a crew of painters. This new take on Pop Art is known as Neo-Pop.  

Art II students were introduced to both artists - and many others - and were charged with creating a painting that was:
1. Based on a well-composed collage of appropriated and juxtaposed imagery
2. Informed by historical/social content
3. Inclusive of photorealistic and other painting styles
4. Supported by an artist statement, which summarizes their intent and aids the viewer’s understanding of their work