Overview
Students will engage in various art activities that explore art history, extend technical skills, and explore exciting techniques in a variety of media often not utilized in public schools.
Different themes and concepts are explored each semester.
Spring 2024 Activities: sketchbook drawing, collaborative painting, digital art making, and more. All art supplies will be provided.
Themes
Aligning with FCPS key concepts for middle school and high school visual arts, the Art Explorations class explores ideas of transformation, relationships, boundaries, roles, perception of place, and social & contemporary issues. Additionally, students are encouraged to research ideas of their interest and use diverse art materials such as sculpture, collage, photography, and other digital art forms.
Course Objectives
- Master Art Techniques: Develop proficiency in a wide range of art techniques, including drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture.
- Cultivate Creative Expression: Explore and express personal narratives, emotions, and ideas through their artwork, developing a unique artistic identity.
- Multimedia Expertise: Gain experience in using various art mediums, such as acrylic paints, digital tools, mixed media, and more to expand their creative repertoire.
- Project Planning: Learn how to plan, design, and execute projects with a focus on concept development and creative problem-solving.
- Artistic Critique: Engage in constructive critiques of their own and peers’ work, providing and receiving feedback to refine their skills.
- Exploration of Themes: Delve into thematic art projects, exploring social, cultural, and personal topics through art.
- Art Presentation: Acquire skills in professionally presenting and exhibiting their work, including matting, framing, and gallery-style display techniques.
Ages: 12-18
Dates: Saturdays, 10:00 – 11:30 am
February 24 – April 27, 2024 (8 weeks)
Skip Dates: Mar 23 & Mar 30
Student Art Showcase: April 27th, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Tuition: $315
Location: Art & Design Building at George Mason in Fairfax, VA
Program Faculty
(Coming Soon)
The Master of Arts in Teaching in Art Education (MAT I) is a pre-service degree program that prepares students with a BFA degree or equivalent for PreK-12 art licensure by the Commonwealth of Virginia. As a transformative educational journey that empowers future educators with a holistic and immersive learning experience, one of the unique features of our MAT program is the opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students to teach MCAA Saturday Art Classes before their semester-long student teaching internship at FCPS. This provides meaningful opportunity for pre-service teachers in various aspects, such as to practice curriculum design, gain insights from challenges and experience, and implement diverse teaching strategies.
Moreover, all students enrolled in Art Education courses are required to visit MCAA Saturday art classes in Fall and Spring semesters to observe and assist their peers in action as well as interact with PreK-12 students to gain knowledge about their artistic practices. This hands-on experience brings theory to life and bridges the gap between academic knowledge and real-world classroom dynamics. This collaborative approach not only enhances their own teaching skills but also strengthens the MCAA Saturday art classes, enriching the experience for all students involved.
Notes
- Please note that group classes are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not reached.
- Be sure to check our policies and procedures regarding registration, withdrawals, refunds, and more for fall or spring group classes.
- All students will receive a Welcome Letter via email at least 1 week before the class starts with all necessary details.
- Online registration closes 2 business days before the first class, however space may still be available. Please contact academy@gmu.edu for more information. A $10 late registration fee may apply.
- For additional information, please contact the Academy at academy@gmu.edu.