Visual Arts

Philosophy

Browning has long sought to provide its students a balanced and culturally enriched educational experience, and the arts have played a major role in that endeavor. Academic courses which assure a certain level of competence in the history and critical analysis of art and music are a required part of the curriculum. However, it is equally important to foster a deeper appreciation for the arts which may not be found in the confines of the traditional classroom. To this end, students working in the art studios set their hands to drawing, painting, sculpture, and related media, and display their work in school exhibits and publications. Browning choirs and instrumental groups perform at various assemblies and concerts, and individual student musicians are encouraged to perform. Theatrical performances by all age groups are mounted for assemblies and evening productions, and often the energies and talents of school artists, musicians, and thespians are pulled together into one, unifying effort. In addition, professionals are invited to Browning to share their experiences in the arts. These guest lecturers are often talented alumni who return to share their expertise and nurture a new generation of Browning students.

Foundation in Art I

This one-trimester course is required for students in Form IV. The goal of the course is to expand students’ artistic abilities by having them explore a variety of techniques, with the emphasis on drawing, painting, and 3-dimensional design. Students experience a variety of media through the study of different subjects. This course may serve as an introduction to art electives open to Form V and VI students.

Form IV: Foundation in Art II

This third trimester elective for Form IV students is a continuation of skills learned in Foundation in Art I. Enhancement of 2-dimensional skills will continue with projects such as perspective drawing and stencil design. Students will also gain more exposure to ceramics techniques using both the pottery wheel and hand building.

Studio Art I - Drawing

Students in this class investigate different drawing materials and techniques, including graphite and colored pencils, charcoal and pastels, pen and ink, and scratchboard. Different subjects are studied with each project. The students develop an understanding of traditional approaches to these media while at the same time exploring their own personal style. This elective is offered to Form V students.

Studio Art II - Painting

This elective is offered to Form VI students who wish to explore the skills and basic techniques involved in traditional acrylic, oil, and watercolor painting. The types of painting studied include landscape, still-life, and portraiture. The class works from life as well as photographic resources.

Studio Art - Ceramics I and II

This course gives the students the opportunity to learn and explore the skills involved in working on the pottery wheel, as well as different handbuilding techniques. Different forms are explored and the students are encouraged to add a creative interpretation to traditional shapes.