The Advanced Placement (AP) Drawing course is an intensive program designed to foster the development of students' skills in drawing, offering a comprehensive exploration of artistic techniques, materials, and conceptual processes. This course adheres to a curriculum that parallels introductory college-level drawing courses, aiming to prepare students not only for the AP examination but also for further studies and careers in art and design. Here is an expanded overview, incorporating a detailed understanding of the AP curriculum:

About the Course

• Artificial Intelligence Policy: In alignment with the AP program's commitment to academic integrity and authentic learning, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in any part of the creative process is strictly prohibited. This policy ensures that the work submitted by students is a true representation of their own creative abilities and understanding of the drawing discipline.

Skills Development

The AP Drawing course is structured around key skills that are critical to the development of a proficient artist:

• Exploration of Materials and Techniques: Students engage in hands-on experimentation with a wide range of drawing materials (such as graphite, charcoal, ink, pastel, and more) and techniques (including line drawing, shading, stippling, and hatching). This exploration is fundamental in helping students discover their preferred mediums and develop a versatile skill set.

• Conceptual and Creative Thinking: The course emphasizes the importance of originality and personal voice in art-making. Students are encouraged to think critically about the themes and ideas they wish to explore in their work, leading to the creation of meaningful and conceptually rich artworks.

• Technical Proficiency and Expression: As students progress through the course, they refine their technical skills in drawing, including mastery of proportion, perspective, composition, and the effective use of light and shadow. This technical proficiency supports the expressive quality of their work, enabling them to convey emotions, narratives, and ideas effectively.

• Critical Analysis and Reflection: Critical thinking about art is cultivated through the practice of analyzing works of art, including peer and historical works, and through reflecting on one's own creative process. This skill is crucial for developing an informed and reflective art practice.

Course Structure

The curriculum is structured around three central themes or "Big Ideas," each encompassing a range of skills and learning objectives:

1. Investigation: This theme focuses on the exploration of artistic materials, processes, and ideas. Students learn to conduct research, document their findings, and apply this knowledge to their creative work. They are encouraged to reflect on their experiences and to connect their work with broader artistic traditions and contemporary practices.

2. Creation: Here, the emphasis is on the act of making art. Students are guided to develop their own creative questions, engage in iterative processes of experimentation and revision, and make deliberate choices in the integration of materials, processes, and ideas. This stage is critical for developing a personal style and voice in their artwork.

3. Presentation: The final theme addresses the presentation and critique of art. Students learn to articulate the concepts and processes behind their work, evaluate their achievements and areas for growth, and understand how to present their work professionally. This includes digital portfolio preparation, a crucial component of the AP Drawing exam.

Portfolio Submission

The culmination of the AP Drawing course is the submission of a digital portfolio, due by May 10, 2024. This portfolio is a critical aspect of the AP exam, requiring students to present a selection of works that demonstrate their mastery of drawing techniques, their ability to explore and develop ideas, and their skill in presenting art in a cohesive and compelling manner.

Conclusion

The AP Drawing course offers a rigorous and enriching educational experience for high school students passionate about art. It challenges students to develop their technical skills, engage deeply with creative and conceptual processes, and prepare a professional portfolio. Through this course, students not only prepare for the AP exam but also lay the foundation for future studies and careers in the arts.