About & Teaching

College Board–certified instruction for AP 2-D Art and Design, AP 3-D Art and Design, and AP Drawing. Designed for committed students, including homeschool learners, who are building a portfolio for digital submission.

The course follows the AP Art and Design framework. Students develop an inquiry-based Sustained Investigation of materials, processes, and ideas through practice, experimentation, and revision. They also prepare Selected Works that demonstrate a skillful synthesis of materials, processes, and ideas, along with the required written evidence.

Studio sessions include critique, assignment structure, guidance on process documentation and photography, support with written inquiry, and firing for 3-D work. Most materials are provided. For 3-D students, the first 100 lbs of clay is included; clay beyond that is billed separately.

Written Evidence — Sustained Investigation

2-D portfolio, 2023

Inquiry that guided the investigation

The central idea of my concentration is to explore the concept that death is a natural part of life. Through my work, I aim to acknowledge and accept death as a natural part of the human experience. To challenge the common cultural taboos and fears surrounding death and encourage viewers to engage with the topic in an honest and open way. With death comes revival and renewal; we can find comfort in knowing that even in death, there’s the potential for new life and growth. I hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for the beauty of our existence and acceptance of the inevitable end that awaits us.

Practice, experimentation, and revision

In my concentration, I’ve been exploring different techniques and materials. I’ve been experimenting with alcohol markers and adding fabric to a canvas to create texture and interest behind an illustration on paper. Drawing inspiration from Caravaggio’s use of chiaroscuro has helped me develop my own painting style. I’m constantly problem-solving and adapting my ideas, moving away from just painting skulls to create more interpretive pieces that still incorporate the theme of death. Exploring techniques and styles, I hope to continue developing my skills and making unique, meaningful art.

Written Evidence — Sustained Investigation

2-D portfolio, 2023

Inquiry that guided the investigation

In my portfolio I wanted to express all perspectives of rodeo and the Western lifestyle to show the “behind the chutes” scenes from my perspective. As someone who is involved in rodeo, I see various sides of the event; from the grand entry to the winning score. Every piece I made has a meaning behind it, maybe a resemblance to a horse that passed, or a pleasant memory of a big accomplishment. Rodeo is much more to me than a sport and I hope people who view my pieces enjoy a new perspective.

Practice, experimentation, and revision

Experimentation is evident in my pieces, from my first realistic watercolor to my self-portrait, riding my horse at a rodeo. My acrylic horse divided into different colors based on value was a preface to my geometric horse in which I used simple colors to differentiate shapes and create a cohesive image. I have acquired new techniques in my repertoire such as scumbling and acrylic glazes. I learned to wheel throw for the first time and created several sculptures out of clay during the process of creating my portfolio.

Written Evidence — Sustained Investigation

2-D portfolio, 2023

Inquiry that guided the investigation

I explored ideas that I believed had the potential to elicit powerful reactions from the viewers. I chose music for my portfolio theme to explore the multifaceted relationship between music and the individual listener. Through arrays of artistic interpretations, I aim to convey how music can evoke a profound emotional response, inspire visual imagery, and communicate complex themes and ideas. Drawing on my personal experiences and musical preferences, I seek to create a diverse collection of pieces that capture the essence of various genres, styles, and moods.

Practice, experimentation, and revision

I’ve experimented with various mediums like watercolor, acrylic, pastels, etc. to refine my approach to creating art inspired by music. Using different mediums, I’ve gained valuable insight into what’s successful in my projects. Example: my watercolor piece “A Path to Healing, Guided by the Moon” captured the music’s sense of calmness. I have also improved in my problem-solving skills. My piece “The Heartfelt Hues of Friendship” got acrylic paint on it. Instead of restarting, I burned holes in the project and then layered paper under it so I could make colorful bursts in a seemingly monotone piece.