This is a general exploratory course with a strong emphasis on the elements and principles of design. A variety of art processes and media, i.e., drawing, lettering, printmaking, painting, fiber, layout, jewelry, sculpture, and art appreciation will be introduced.

Introductory course to drawing materials (graphite, pastels, paint and mixed media, digital materials, pen and ink, charcoal), drawing techniques such as contour, gesture, perspective, shading and design concepts. Studio course emphasizing the principles of composition, color theory, value and tonal studies.

The overall goal of the course is for students to develop a body of work, which represents their individual research and development of artistic expression. This is a two-year course. Students do not have to be pursuing an IB diploma to take the class.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program (DP) at West Anchorage High School encourages creative inquiry and critical thinking while helping students develop a global perspective. IB is a challenging two-year (11th-12th) pre-college course of studies in the tradition of the liberal arts. Diploma candidates must complete studies in six subject areas: English, a world language, history, science, math, and the arts. West High is the only IB program in the Anchorage School District.

The Multimedia Design course is a merging of traditional art processes with emerging technology. Students will link together a variety of media such as graphics, text, audio and visual programs using basic concepts of two- and three-dimensional design. Through a variety of learning activities, emphasis will be placed on the creative process, conceptual design, solutions and practical applications.

Painting offers a study of media and techniques using a variety of materials. Mediums such as watercolor, acrylic, tempera, acrylic, oil and mixed media will be explored in conjunction with a basic investigation of materials and history of painting.

Partners’ Club Art brings together special education and general education students through art. The main goals are to create a welcoming community for everyone at West and to have fun together. Students have the opportunity to propose art activities for the class while building relationships with their peers.

Beginning students will study media skills, techniques of hand building with clay, such as pinch, coil and slab and history of clay as an art form. Clay processes, preparation, experimentation with texture, surface decoration, sculpture, wheel throwing, glazing and firing will be explored. Advanced students will calculate and mix chemicals to create glazing compounds.

Beginning students will be introduced to the various printmaking methods that may include relief printing, intaglio, lithography, silk screening and embossing processes, depending on available equipment.

*Not currently offered

This is an introductory course in basic problems of three-dimensional forms using a variety of media: paper, wood, stone, clay, wax, wire, plaster, metal and glass. Additive and subtractive techniques will be explored.