Arts Department

explore the arts

At Salisbury, our Art courses provide a place for you to unearth your creative potential and give voice to big ideas. In a warm and welcoming environment, our curriculum explores technique and skill building, theoretical and hands-on activity, and artistic ways to problem solve. Our department offers both the inquisitive beginner and the seasoned artist an elective that is customized to your interests. More than just a creative outlet, our lessons in art literacy encourage you to consider the broader implications of art in today's society.

In addition to the studio courses offered during the academic day in both the fine arts and music, we provide time for extracurricular participation in drama, music lessons and ensembles. The Ruger Fine Arts Center and Field Music Center are accessible twenty-four hours a day and you are encouraged to take advantage of our state-of-the-art facilities during free periods.

Art

A242IC-3 Art Survey

Art survey is a broad-based sampling of painting, ceramics and sculpture. This class is ideal for the curious beginner who would like to explore three different art disciplines in one elective course. The projects offered, include painting from life, sculpting a 3-D object, and making a functional clay piece using slab technique. It is also an opportunity for a student who only needs one art credit, but would like the experience of an entry-level studio art clas

A112C INTRODUCTION to CERAMICS

In this course, students will be introduced to the basics of clay. Learning both slab technique and coil method, they will be able to create decorative and/or functional pieces. In addition, they will have the opportunity to learn how throw pots on the wheel. Various glazing methods will be introduced to achieve exciting color options. Different project opportunities will be introduced each term.

A112P INTRODUCTION to PAINTING

This class is for both the beginner and the more advanced student and offers a foundation in painting techniques, with emphasis on color theory and composition. Working with acrylic on canvas,projects will be executed in large format and will include self-portraits, working from direct observation (still- life), and copying a Master. Different project opportunities will be introduced each term (Fall, Winter, Spring).

A112DP INTRODUCTION to DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY

Introduction to Digital Photography is an introduction to all aspects of contemporary photography. Students will develop a working knowledge of the Canon DSLR cameras that we have in studio. They will be required to use Adobe Bridge and Photoshop to archive and manipulate their images. They will also explore how their iPhones and Android cameras can be used to produce professional quality imagery. We will be using our large format printer to produce archival, gallery quality prints and posters. Projects that we will be working on include the following: Black and White with a Splash of Color, Digital Collage and Painting, Triptychs, Album Covers, The Night Sky, Sports Photography and a Final Portfolio.

A112FM INTRODUCTION to FILM MAKING

Introduction to Film Making is an introduction to all aspects of digital video production including planning, producing and editing. We will develop a working knowledge of our various DSLR and 4K video cameras and their many functions. Students will be required to edit their videos using Adobe Premier, After Effects and Photoshop. Projects that we will be working on include the following: Stop Motion Animation, Time-Lapse Photography, Documentary Short, Sports Videography, and a Final Short Film.

A242GD INTRODUCTION to GRAPHIC DESIGN

Introduction to Graphic Design offers student an opportunity to learn and apply techniques and theories of graphic design to communicate visual messaging. Students will be familiarized with basic visual literacy and the principles and elements of art in composition. In the computer lab, student will work to develop competency in computer illustration through a better understanding of the Adobe Creative Suite (specifically Adobe Illustrator and PhotoShop) which includes the use of: image manipulation, layout, typography, color editing, graphic standard formats and output print mechanisms.

This course is a great first introduction to Salisbury’s digital media offerings. Students who are interested in design but are unfamiliar with the technology that drives illustration and photo editing will gain a strong sense of how to let their creative ideas come to life on screen and in print.

A242IC INTRODUCTION to CARDBOARD 3-D SCULPTURE

This is an “all-in” group collaborative effort to create a larger-than-life cardboard installation (yet to be determined) for the Annual Fall Scarecrow Contest in downtown Salisbury. With cardboard as the primary medium, students will learn how to make giant dimensional figures, from the first design conception to the final installation. Using their newly acquired skills, students can then follow this project with a final cardboard 3-D creation of their own choosing. Beginners welcome!

A242W WOODWORKING

This course is an introduction to hand and power tools through the construction of a piece of furniture, making use of traditional and contemporary wood joinery techniques. Safe use of equipment, craftsmanship, design, and structural problem solving are key elements of the course, along with an appreciation of “low tech” tools such as hand planes and scrapers. During construction of the table, a student learns how to mark out project pieces accurately and set up machines for cutting; dress rough lumber in preparation for finish cutting; and one of the various methods of applying a finish to the final piece.

A2420 OBJECTIVE DRAWING

This course is designed for the student who wants to learn to draw realistically and improve his ability to draw from observation. The course presupposes that seeing and drawing abilities are not solely functions of “talent” but are, rather, skills that can be taught and learned. Observations from life, from both set compositions and landscape, are explored with pencil and ink. The main focus of the course is to provide the student with techniques to develop his visual skills and manual control further, along with work in composition and abstract structure (fall).

A242B BOATBUILDING

(TWO-TRIMESTER COMMITMENT (WINTER & SPRING)

The Art Department has offered boat building since 2003. Students are able to select a boat from two options: a manufactured kit from Chesapeake Light Craft or a skin-on-frame canoe. In the former case, the options are varied, and students are referred to the CLC catalog. The skin-on-frame canoes, the more economical option, are built from scratch and incorporate a degree of woodworking training and skill. In either case, this is a two-trimester project. Each year in late spring, the department hosts a boat launching down at the boathouse, celebrating the success of each student’s project (Winter, Spring).

Music

A122DM DIGITAL MUSIC

This class has its major focus in music production but utilizes digital film as well. The class is a combination of music composition and film making using iMovie. The students compose music with Reason, a powerful midi program, and Protools, the standard in the industry for recording. The work is focused on improving musical skills as well as learning many of the innovations that are possible using computer-based applications.

A242J JAZZ HISTORY

The History of Jazz takes an in-depth look at America's music, starting with field hollers and work

songs. New Orleans is the birthplace of this art form that grew up and matured in many locations across the United States. It is now performed throughout the world and is regarded as America's greatest cultural achievement. The study of this music is a look at America from the eyes of the disenfranchised, which gives us a different approach to modern American history. The students will gain the knowledge for a lifelong appreciation of this powerful art form.

Mu300CE CLASSICAL ENSEMBLE

Classical Ensemble emphasizes small ensemble skills including musicianship, intonation, interpretation, and performance practice. Students are encouraged to practice as an ensemble outside of their time together in class. The course is open to all string, brass, woodwind, keyboard, and pitched percussion instrumentalists. The Classical Ensemble performs regularly throughout the year and meets formally twice a week during x-block.

Mu300JE JAZZ ENSEMBLE

The Jazz Ensemble plays small group jazz with an emphasis on improvisation. Students play modern and post-modern compositions and learn theory as well as strategies for performance. The students learn to play in an ensemble setting and learn the nuances of the various compositions. The group meets formally three times a week during x-block.

Mu300RE ROCK ENSEMBLE

The Rock Ensemble plays a wide range of rock music and its roots, the blues. Members learn classic rhythmic patterns and theory to help them understand and perform the music. The group meets formally twice a week during x-block. In addition, there are numerous special workshops throughout the year. These have included: Middle Eastern drumming, African drumming, sound improvisation, rhythm section workshops, and master classes in jazz, hip-hop, and digital music. Performances by world-renowned musicians have been enjoyed.

The academic life at Salisbury is motivating. The teachers, coaches, and mentors at Salisbury are exceptional. They bring passion and expertise into their intimate classroom settings. Collaboration, innovation, problem solving, creativity, and civic responsibility are just some of the principles that guide Salisbury School’s educational model. Most importantly, these men and women partner with you each day and always with the highest expectations.
Dean of Academic Life Sarah Mulrooney

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