• Art Department

    The Masconomet Art Department has gained a national reputation for outstanding achievement through the accomplishments of its students and faculty. We take pride in our solid program, which not only emphasizes the making of art and the solving of complex visual problems, but also encourages the ability to verbalize about art. The art program is open to all students, regardless of level of ability and experience.

     *** Beginning with the Class of 2026, students will also need to earn 5 credits in Visual and/or Performing Arts.*** 

    The yearlong Art Studio courses offered provide a sequential program of experiences, culminating in Advanced Placement 2D Art and Design, which will enable the future artist and/or designer to pursue post-secondary education in art or to continue making quality art as an avocation. In Grade 9, we highly recommend scheduling ART STUDIO I for any student who enjoys having art in their daily schedule and is interested in taking art throughout high school. Art Studio I students are exposed to a wide variety of media and a range of art experiences that provides a strong foundation to build upon. Another introductory option that is available for 9th graders is Art Explorations, which is a semester art course that covers the same core concepts (drawing, color theory, 2-D design, 3-D design) as in Art Studio I but with a shorter time commitment (overall fewer projects and less variety of media than is covered in the full year course). This is an option for some students who are interested in or are curious about art but may find it difficult to commit to the yearlong Art Studio I course. 

    In addition, a wide selection of semester-long art courses are available for those students who would like to explore various aspects of art in greater depth. These include Photography I*, Photography II*, Photography III, Photography IV, Photography and Social Media*, New Media Arts*, Graphic Design, Drawing, Painting, Sculpture (available in school year 2025-2026), Innovative Product Design, Architecture I, Architecture II, Ceramics, Fashion Design, Woodworking I*, Woodworking II*, and Woodworking III. There are two additional yearlong courses available, Media Communications/Yearbook, a desktop publishing course, and A.P. Art History (available in school year 2025-2026 and offered for Social Studies elective credit). Priority in enrollment will be given to twelfth, eleventh, tenth, then ninth grade students in classes which are over-enrolled. (*Semester courses that are available to Grade 9 students.)

    Occasionally, we request that students purchase limited amounts of supplies. This is done, for the most part, so that students can continue to work on projects at home. The types of supplies requested are generally limited to tools and materials that will be used more than once, such as pencils, erasers, adhesives, X-Acto knives, sketchbooks, etc.

    New Media Arts students and Photography and Social Media students will be provided a digital camera and iPad as needed to complete course assignments. Photography I, II, III, and IV students will be provided a 35 mm, single lens reflex (SLR), manually operated camera as needed to complete assignments in those courses. Additionally, students are also welcome to bring in appropriate cameras of their own to work with as well. Photo II, III, and IV students may work chemically or digitally and should have access to the appropriate camera(s).

    HOMEWORK - There is homework for College Prep art classes, but it is highly variable depending on the nature of the in-class project and the efficiency of each student. Honors level can expect to have approximately 2–3 hours of homework each week.

     

    SEQUENCE OF ART COURSES

    Students are encouraged to begin their art studies with our sequential program. The Art Studio courses offer experiences with a wide range of materials and processes. This establishes a strong foundation to build upon for the next year while also providing an opportunity to discover new abilities and areas of interest. Students in the Art Studio sequential program will have the option of electing courses for either college-prep or honors credit. Students electing honors credit will be responsible for completing one major additional independent art project during each quarter. Participation in Honors is an opportunity for students to gain additional experience and strengthen their portfolio.

    COLLEGE PREP

    Art Studio I (CP)

    Art Studio II (CP)

    Art Studio III (CP)

    Art A.P. (AP)

     or

    HONORS

    Art Studio I (H)

    Art Studio II (H)

    Art Studio III (H)

     Art A.P. (AP)
     
     
    All AP 2D Art and Design students are urged to be enrolled in another art class in the fall semester of their senior year, particularly if they are planning to pursue art or design in college. This additional experience provides an opportunity to create quality pieces that will add to the depth and breadth of the student's portfolio.  A new course as of last year, New Media Arts, focuses on the creation of a variety of types of artwork that utilize electronic media and technology. Taking this course will enrich students' art and technology skills as well as their knowledge and ability to build and maintain their portfolio. Additionally, students interested in furthering their studies in Architecture or any other design discipline (ie: Graphic Design, Fashion Design, Industrial Design) are strongly encouraged to take as many art courses as possible to create a strong portfolio of work, which is needed for college applications. As previously stated, enrollment in the foundation Art Studio courses is highly encouraged. We also strongly recommend the semester-long drawing course for any student interested in art, because drawing is fundamentally important to all visual art pursuits. Please speak with any member of the art faculty for additional course recommendations.

  • Program of Studies

    • 1.
      • Art
      • Art Studio I (CP)
      • 7101
      • This is a hands-on and active course! Students at all levels of ability and experience are encouraged to begin their journey into the high school art program here! Students will solve visual challenges in the following areas: drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and design. Art appreciation will be incorporated throughout the yearlong curriculum as well. The difference between CP and H is that the honors students complete one major additional independent project each quarter.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 9, 10, 11, 12
      • CP
      • Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 2.
      • Art
      • Art Studio I (H)
      • 7001
      • This is a hands-on and active course! Students at all levels of ability and experience are encouraged to begin their journey into the high school art program here! Students will solve visual challenges in the following areas: drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and design. Art appreciation will be incorporated throughout the yearlong curriculum as well. The difference between CP and H is that the honors students complete one major additional independent project each quarter.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 9, 10, 11, 12
      • H
      • Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 3.
      • Art
      • Art Explorations
      • 7121
      • This comprehensive introductory semester course is designed to allow for artistic discovery by presenting creative challenges that involve both skill development and reflective experience. Students will explore a wide variety of art media and processes. Units covered will include two-dimensional design, three-dimensional design, and drawing. Students will be asked to observe, think creatively, and make critical decisions while developing problem-solving skills in this engaging hands-on course.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 9,10,11,12
      • CP
      • Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 4.
      • Art
      • Art Studio II (CP)
      • 7301
      • Students will create work that relates thematically from one challenge to the next, thus allowing them to begin to think and work as artists do. Assignments will address the selected theme through the following studio areas: drawing, painting, printmaking, design, sculpture, and mixed media. Art Studio II candidates must have successfully completed Art Studio I. The difference between CP and H is that the honors students complete one major additional independent project each quarter.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 9, 10, 11, 12
      • CP
      • Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 5.
      • Art
      • Art Studio II (H)
      • 7002
      • Students will create work that relates thematically from one challenge to the next, thus allowing them to begin to think and work as artists do. Assignments will address the selected theme through the following studio areas: drawing, painting, printmaking, design, sculpture, and mixed media. Art Studio II candidates must have successfully completed Art Studio I. The difference between CP and H is that the honors students complete one major additional independent project each quarter.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 9, 10, 11, 12
      • H
      • Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 6.
      • Art
      • Art Studio III (CP)
      • 7401
      • Art Studio II + III make up a two-year curriculum with a different theme each year. Drawing, painting, printmaking, design, sculpture, and mixed media—will be investigated on an alternate year basis so that by the end of ASIII, all areas have been covered. Creative problem solving will be stressed. Art Studio III candidates must have successfully completed Art Studio II. The difference between CP and H is that the honors students complete one major additional independent project each quarter.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 9, 10, 11, 12
      • CP
      • Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 7.
      • Art
      • Art Studio III (H)
      • 7003
      • Art Studio II + III make up a two-year curriculum with a different theme each year. Drawing, painting, printmaking, design, sculpture, and mixed media will be investigated on an alternate year basis so that by the end of ASIII, all areas have been covered. Creative problem solving will be stressed. Art Studio III candidates must have successfully completed Art Studio II. The difference between CP and H is that the honors students complete one major additional independent project each quarter.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 9, 10, 11, 12
      • H
      • Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 8.
      • Art
      • 2D Art and Design (AP)
      • 7441
      • AP concludes the journey for students who have demonstrated consistent growth and desire for excellence in their work. AP students should be committed to post-secondary art study as either a vocation or avocation. The course structure meets the guidelines established by The College Board. Approval of the AP teacher is required for enrollment. All AP students are urged to be enrolled in another 2D art class during the fall semester. AP Studio Art students are expected to take the AP Exam in May.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 12
      • AP
      • Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 9.
      • Art
      • Art History (AP)
      • 7601
      • AP Art History provides an introductory college level course regardless of whether one has had previous experience in studio art or art history. Students will examine major forms of artistic expression, look at works of art critically, with intelligence and sensitivity, and will then be asked to articulate what they have seen or experienced in those works. The course structure meets the guidelines established by The College Board.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • AP
      • CCC, Global, Visual & Performing Arts
      • 25-26
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2
    • 10.
      • Art
      • Drawing
      • 7501
      • This is a multi --- media course, which is organized to strengthen each students observational drawing skills and to broaden their definition of what drawing is. A series of assignments has been designed to stretch each individual's development. Classes are made up of students with varying levels of ability and experience. Students considering a career in architecture, graphic design, industrial design, fashion design, and the fine arts are encouraged to take this course.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • Media & Communication, Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 11.
      • Art
      • Painting
      • 7610
      • The painting course is designed to accommodate all levels of painting ability. Structured classes will introduce fundamentals of painting techniques, using a variety of methods and materials. Exercises will be assigned with emphasis placed on color and composition, and the study of form, space and light. Students will be encouraged to explore realism, abstraction, and self-expression. Materials may include tempera paint, acrylic paint, oil paint, watercolor and mixed media.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 12.
      • Art
      • Sculpture
      • 7621
      • Students will gain experience with a variety of methods and materials as they create 3D representative or abstract forms while taking into consideration mass, volume, proportion, surface, light + shade, and space. Additive and subtractive techniques and various methods of construction (ie: carving, assembling, modeling, joining) will be explored. Sculptural artworks may be created in (but not limited to) wood, wire, plaster, cardboard, papier-mâché, fabric, and found materials.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • Visual & Performing Arts
      • 25-26
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 13.
      • Art
      • Ceramics I
      • 7951
      • This is a hands --- on course that will explore methods of hand building and wheel --- throwing to create ceramic pieces. While much of the work that is created in this class will be functional (bowls, containers, plates, etc.), there will also be work created that is purely sculptural. In addition to building techniques, students will also learn techniques for decorating their clay objects. This will include the use of underglazes and engobes as well as glazes.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 14.
      • Art
      • Graphic Design I
      • 7801
      • Graphic Design is an introduction to the creative art of using imagery and typography to convey information to an audience. After learning some fundamental design and computer skills, real-life design projects (ie: posters, logos) from local non-profit organizations will become the focal point of the class. Skill areas will include concept development, composition, typography, and vector art. Students work in the Mac lab where they will primarily utilize Adobe Illustrator.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • Media & Communication, STEAM, Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 15.
      • Art
      • Fashion Design I
      • 7201
      • This course introduces students to the creative process of clothing design and focuses on three areas: illustration, flat sketching and design presentation. Students become fluent in design terminology, create and learn to work from inspiration boards, and learn about garment construction and fabrics. Students will be given design challenges and will experience authentic learning of what being a fashion designer truly means. They will also have a start toward building a fashion design portfolio.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • Computer Science, STEAM, Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 16.
      • Art
      • Innovative Product Design
      • 7620
      • Students will create developmental drawings, 3D models, working drawings, and prototypes. These hands-on projects enable students to build an awareness of materials and an understanding of 3D terminology. This course will challenge students to think creatively while considering style, function, and ergonomics. Students will bring their ideas to life and build them in three dimensions. Sketching and perspective drawing will be covered as well as building with a variety of sculptural materials.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • Computer Science, STEAM, Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 17.
      • Art
      • Architecture I
      • 7980
      • Students will learn about basic architectural design concepts and drawing formats, which they will then employ in the design and construction of prototypes. Important architectural principles are introduced through studio exercises, slide lectures, and demonstrations. Students will develop an understanding of perspective, scale, form, and spatial relationships by drawing, designing, drafting, and model- building.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • STEAM, Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 18.
      • Art
      • Architecture II
      • 7981
      • The design knowledge gained from Architecture I is transferred from the drawing boards and model making studio and brought into the computer lab and wood working shop. Through the use of ArchiCAD and SketchUp, students will develop skills to digitally draft plans and elevations to hone their designs and additionally learn actual construction techniques by creating a scale model in wood of their resolved architectural design.
      • Architecture II candidates must have successfully completed Architecture I
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • STEAM, Visual & Performing Arts
      • 21-22
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 19.
      • Art
      • New Media Arts
      • 7531
      • New Media blends art with technology. Projects will be created primarily by using the software programs in the Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop + Animate) as well as the Procreate app to create, control and manipulate imagery. Still and moving images will be derived from the use of peripherals such as digital cameras (for photography, video, animation) tablets (for drawing + painting) and scanners. Students interested in developing their digital skills further are encouraged to take this course.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 9, 10, 11, 12
      • CP
      • Media & Communications, STEAM, Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 20.
      • Art
      • Photography and Social Media
      • 7921
      • We begin with an introduction to the digital DSLR camera to understand the mechanics of photography. Then we'll take an in-depth look at the advanced features of smartphones in capturing both still images and video. Students will learn Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom to edit images. Students will shoot and edit video using smartphones and Adobe Premier to create short movies and stop-motion animations. We'll also learn how successful photographers on Instagram create some of their amazing images!
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 9,10,11,12
      • CP
      • Media & Communication, STEAM, Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 21.
      • Art
      • Photo I
      • 7901
      • Areas covered in this introduction to quality black and white photography include learning to use a single lens reflex (SLR) camera, exposure theory, developing film, and printing techniques in the darkroom. Emphasis is on creative expression while mastering the technical processes. 35mm cameras are available for student use, and film and photographic paper are provided to complete the course projects. Students are also welcome to bring their own 35mm film cameras to learn to use as well.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 9,10,11,12
      • CP
      • Media & Communication, Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 22.
      • Art
      • Photo II
      • 7912
      • Photography II is the follow up course to both Photo I & Photography and Social Media. Students will work both in film as well as digital. There will be more frequent critiques and projects will be more advanced. Individual and group photo shoots will introduce students to studio lighting techniques as well as photography studio basics. Digital SLR cameras and 35mm film cameras are available for student use, and film and photographic paper are provided as needed to complete the course projects.
      • Photo II candidates must have successfully completed Photo I or Photography and Social Media
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 9,10,11,12
      • CP
      • Media & Communication, Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 23.
      • Art
      • Photo III
      • 7931
      • Photo III, which runs concurrent with Photo II, serves as the follow up course. Students will continue to work both in film as well as digital. Through combined critiques, students in both levels will gain insight from each other’s experiences. The projects will continue to give students more workable knowledge in studio techniques. Digital SLR cameras and 35mm film cameras are available for student use, and film and photographic paper are provided as needed to complete the course projects.
      • Photo III candidates must have successfully completed Photo II.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • Media & Communication, Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 24.
      • Art
      • Photo IV
      • 7941
      • This capstone course in photography serves as the culminating educational experience at Masconomet and is designed for the serious photography student who has decided to pursue this medium for commercial work or a college portfolio. Students are expected to complete thirty teacher approved, professional level pieces. Digital SLR cameras and 35mm film cameras are available for student use, and film and photographic paper are provided as needed to complete the course projects.
      • Photo IV candidates must have successfully completed Photo III.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • Media & Communication, Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
    • 25.
      • Art
      • Media Communications (Yearbook)
      • 7703
      • This class offers a variety of publishing activities to students of all grade levels as they plan and design the high school yearbook MiToBo. Students create copy, edit photographs, and implement design elements as they create a unique yearbook each year. Theme development, cover creation, photography, copywriting, and design are all student-driven under the leadership of the faculty advisor. Every student who continues the class into their senior year achieves Yearbook Editor status.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 9,10,11,12
      • H
      • Media & Communication, Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3