Arts Graphics and Illustration
Nina Lasky, Assistant Principal

Goals of Instruction

Art majors are then given the opportunity to study Illustration, Graphics and Fine Art. A sequence of 12 credits in the art program is required. Most student achieve 14 credits or more. The senior year provides students with the opportunity for portfolio development. All art majors are prepared for both career and post-secondary education. Guest lectures from industry and colleges play an important role in the art program. Museum, gallery visits and grant studies are also stressed. Special enrichment program—art connections, FIT High School Partnership Program, and the Art Museum education Program at MOMA—provide special enrichment.

Sequence of Courses

9th year (All Art Majors)

All students take two one-period courses, one in the fall and one in the spring:

Basic Art: explores the principles, elements and techniques of art, graphics, and illustration through a series of hands-on projects. Computer Graphics I: Introduces students to the mechanics of the computer and graphics programs which leads to the creation of simulations of work-oriented projects (as creative designs for specific products and logo design).

10th year

All students take two one-period courses, one in the fall and one in the spring:

Drawing: Explores a variety of drawing materials and techniques which includes a study of artists and historical time periods. Students create a variety of art forms: still life, cityscapes, portraits, etc. Painting: Students engage in a variety of projects in which they learn different painting media and techniques and the application of color theory.

11th year
Each term, students take a two period course, and an additional one period course.


Illustration: (2-period): Builds upon previous learning by having students apply what they learned in drawing and painting to real life projects, as the design of a postage stamp, book and editorial illustrations, creating posters, etc. Students also compete in contests related to the content of the course. A recently added option permits students to learn photography as part of the curriculum. It is anticipated that this will expand in the future.( A course outline for photography is included.)
Computer Graphics II (1-period): Expands upon what was learned in computer graphics I. Students engage in more involved projects, as designing an entire advertising campaign; they also learn desktop publishing. Advertising Design (2-period): An application course in which students all previously learned skills as they learn many aspects of commercial art. Again, there is significant project based work, as the design of a magazine ad for a specific project.

Business of the Arts (1-Period): A work based course, developed in conjunction with Arts Connection, working professionals in various art-related fields (as comic art, book illustration, architecture, toy design, documentary film) introduce real life projects and then evaluate the results at a culminating event. Students also learn job readiness skills through instruction in resume writing, interview skills, and networking techniques.

12th year
Students take a one year two period course, portfolio development. Students apply all previously learned skills and knowledge to the creation of projects for their portfolios for college and scholarship applications as well as career presentations for internships, entry-level jobs and part-time jobs.