• Course Description (AP F642): AP Drawing is an intense course that addresses advanced concepts in drawing and painting. The entire course is centered on creating a new body of work that is visually and conceptually cohesive. This work comprises the Concentration portion of the AP Exam – an extensive, self-initiated and self-directed series for AP evaluation. To enroll, students must satisfy a pre-requisite of three full years of art (Studio, Advanced Art 1 & Advanced Art 2) and must also pass a portfolio review, which demonstrates their ability to work and think independently. Students taking this course are required to submit digital portfolios for evaluation by the College Board. In the end, they also create digital presentations of their experience and present numerous times to a variety of audiences.

    While the production of art is the primary focus of the class, to be successful there is a strong emphasis on critical and analytical thinking. Students engage in in-depth critiques 2-3 times per week, speak and write about their work regularly, read art historical selections, and learn about contemporary approaches to art-making. Students are expected to perform at an advanced skill level, explore and learn about techniques on their own, and take the risks and initiative required to develop their own content and personal voice.

    AP is not for everyone. It is for the mature, self-directed art student who has previously demonstrated a strong ability and interest in art, but more importantly a strong work ethic, and a consistent record of meeting deadlines. 

    Expectations:  Students are expected to attend all classes on time, and be ready when the bell rings. Students need to complete all assignments on time to receive full credit, including homework. Late work is deducted 5 points per day. If extenuating circumstances arise, it is the student’s responsibility to communicate with the instructor so that accommodations can be made. Ultimately, the amount of time and energy put into the course is directly related to the degree of success.

    Assessment:  Students are given grades for quizzes, homework, class projects, and sketchbook work. Evaluation is ongoing, and often occurs during projects, not just at the end. Feedback from the instructor and classmates (often in the form of a group critique) is provided regularly. Like any other subject, feedback is used to help students get better, recognize progress, determine areas for improvement, and learn how to critically observe and speak about artwork.

    Supplies Needed for AP Art:  (Classroom resources are available, please contact teacher.) 

     
    1. Sketchbook Journal:   At this point in the sequence, students have seen different types of sketchbooks. Students are welcome to continue working in a previous sketchbook, or to start fresh. Bring it to class everyday. Consider getting something that you will lovvvvve to use. The idea is to work in it constantly, sketch in it, plan projects in it, write references in it, etc.
     
    2. Fee for AP Exam:  The AP Exam fee is $95 (due in early fall). Fee reductions are available for students demonstrating financial need. Please contact me or the your guidance counselor to learn about options for fee reductions.
     
     
     
    The below materials are not required during Fall 2020 Remote Teaching: 
     
    3. Folder or Binder:  Students should keep all handouts organized and in order. Feel free to get creative with this (but be diligent about keeping your sketchbook workable and organized). Students may also include a section for Advanced Art 2 in one large binder with other subjects if this system works better for them. 
     
    4. 23" x 31" Portfolio(s):  AP students often find it useful to have 2 portfolios – 1 primary portfolio & 1 overflow portfolio. Your overflow could also be useful to transport in-progress work to & from class. They do not have to be brand new – chances are you already have 2 that you can bring in from previous years. Both portfolios should be at least 23” x 31” (or larger) & labeled with student’s name and class period. (AP students are allowed to store the larger zipper portfolios in Room 164.) It is important that ALL WORK IS KEPT AND CARED FOR. DO NOT FOLD YOUR WORK. You never know what idea or project you’re going to need to revisit or reconsider for the AP.
     
    Portfolios can be found at dickBlick.com, AC Moore, Hobby Lobby, Michaels, and Catskill Art Supply. There are regularly 50% off printable coupons available online.
     
    5. Flash Drive:   Previous AP students have found it incredibly handy to have a USB flash drive to store their work onto. Students will be taking photos of their work on their own devices (often phones) and adjusting/sizing on computers in the school. Sometimes these photos need to be transported back & forth from home to school, and so flash drives come in handy.