The Art program at PJPII is based on developing student’s artistic skills and knowledge over the years that they are students here.
Students learn to use mediums in multiple ways—for example using both the tip and the side of crayons. We work with mixed- mediums combined in various ways so that the students learn how materials work together in different ways. They are taught that art materials are their vocabulary in Art just as letters and words are in reading and writing. The broader the vocabulary, the more you have to choose from to express yourself.
It is recognized that Art is an important cross-curricular vehicle for helping students learn material covered in other areas of the curriculum. Students learn that Math is often found and used in Art, that illustrations enhance words in the mind’s eye, and that Art is the expression of cultures throughout History. Science is integrated as well.
Art History is brought in as we work in various mediums so that students learn how materials have been used in the past by artists. It is covered as well when we work on projects focused on a particular culture.
Students learn the vocabulary of color theory and principles of art and design so that we can better discuss our work. They learn to think about how they are constructing a composition, and how they will manipulate what they are learning about the principles and theory.
Students learn sketch booking to work out and develop their projects in both pictures and words on the page so that they can more clearly think about what they are going to do.
We have a strong ceramic program at PJPII as well. Throughout the years students develop their skills working with clay, learning hand built techniques and uses of glazes.
Upon entering High School students should have a strong foundation in understanding how to think Art and use a wide variety of materials to create.
