Updated 12/2024
Fossil Ridge is proud to support its award-winning Art Department. FRHS strives to foster a creative atmosphere by building students’ skills with solid foundational courses and offering a wide variety of studio courses, allowing students to find their creative voice while increasing independent student-led experiences. Please visit the FRHS website frh.psdschools.org or contact individual Art instructors with questions.
Visual Arts Philosophy & Course Progressions
The 2-D and 3-D Design courses are the prerequisites for all other art courses offered at Fossil Ridge, with the exceptions of Photography and Studio Art History. Students who wish to enroll in a studio class must take the Design class first. At Fossil Ridge, it is our goal to provide students with a solid base for future success. While being based in the visual arts, it is a course that will lead students through a series of design-based problems in order to teach them the 21st Century skill of visual organization, and project-based learning. With strong visual communication skills, students will be prepared to recognize and understand the multitude of visual cues they encounter every day. They will be able to recognize and talk about the influences that visual art has upon our culture, society, and everyday lives. Finally, understanding how to organize visually will assist them in creating successful presentations in other courses. Our Design classes are just the first step on a path to exploring the many opportunities we offer in Visual Art at Fossil Ridge.
Advanced Placement Track
A.P. Art and Design students experience the rigor of a College Level course while still in high school. OPEN TO SENIORS ONLY, this 10 credit course culminates with students submitting a portfolio of 20 works to the College Board for evaluation. To prepare for the level of work expected, it is important that students start taking art courses as early as possible. It is recommended that students enroll in at least THREE courses PRIOR TO A.P. (Design + 2 levels of a studio class.) However, it is always best if students take as many different art courses as possible. Teacher recommendation is required.
A.P. Art and Design students experience the rigor of a College Level course while still in high school. OPEN TO SENIORS ONLY, this 10 credit course culminates with students submitting a portfolio of 20 works to the College Board for evaluation. To prepare for the level of work expected, it is important that students start taking art courses as early as possible. It is recommended that students enroll in at least THREE courses PRIOR TO A.P. (Design + 2 levels of a studio class.) However, it is always best if students take as many different art courses as possible. Teacher recommendation is required.
*Students who have taken Design Foundations prior to the 2022-2023 school year have met the prerequisite for all other studio classes and do NOT have to take 2D Design or 3D Design first.
1211 Two Dimensional Design
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: None
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This is one of the two prerequisites for all studio art courses. The course emphasizes the importance of a strong foundation in the Art Elements through the use of 2-dimensional art media. Emphasis is on finding creative solutions to visual problems. Students must successfully complete both 2-D Design and 3-D Design before continuing in any studio art course. AT FRHS: This course is a pre-requisite for the 2-Dimensional studio courses of Drawing, Painting, Digital Design and Jewelry. While we encourage students to take both 2D and 3D Design courses, only 2D is required for moving on through the 2D Studio courses.
1212 Three Dimensional Design
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: None
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This is one of the two prerequisites for all studio art courses. The course emphasizes the importance of a strong foundation in the Art Elements through the use of 3-dimensional art media. Emphasis is on finding creative solutions to visual problems. Students must successfully complete both 2-D Design and 3-D Design before continuing in any studio art course. AT FRHS: This course is a pre-requisite for the 3-Dimensional studio courses of Pottery, Jewelry and Sculpture. While we encourage students to take both 2D and 3D Design courses, only 3D is required for moving on through the 3D Studio courses.
1041 Integrated Art
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Two Dimensional Design or Three Dimensional Design
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Integrated Art is an adaptive art course that caters to both general education and integrated services students. General education students take on the role of supportive peer helpers for students with disabilities. Participants work in conjunction with paraprofessional aides and classroom teachers to explore modified artistic activities that accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities. This course is NOT the prerequisite for any other art classes. AT FRHS: 2D or 3D Design is the pre-requisite for Integrated Art. All sophomores, juniors, and seniors who have taken 2D or 3D Design can take Integrated Art. Integrated Art is NOT the prerequisite for any other art classes at FRHS.
1340 Studio Art History
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: None
Meets requirement(s): Humanities / Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Studio Art History is designed for the hands-on student who would like to explore history and culture through an arts-based lens. It allows students to earn Humanities credit or Fine & Applied Arts credit toward graduation requirements. While the main focus will be on the contributions and the evolution of art throughout history, students will also dig into the cultures as a whole. We will analyze how geography, literature and human advancement have reflected and influenced society across time. Studio projects will relate directly to the art forms being studied from the time period explored. General studio work will include drawing, painting and sculpture.
1240 Drawing
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: 2D Design
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This course will provide an opportunity for students to improve their own drawing skills in contour, gesture, and creation of value while encouraging them to think and express themselves creatively. Students will explore the use of a wide variety of techniques and media such as pencil, conte, charcoal, color pencils, marker, pen and ink, and pastels. Drawing is recommended before taking other art classes.
1225 Digital Drawing & Painting
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Drawing
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Explore the sweet- spot where traditional art and new technologies meet. Students will use digital drawing tablets in combination with powerful digital art software to create original artwork.
1241 Advanced Drawing
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Drawing
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
This advanced course is a continuation of the drawing course and is designed for the serious artist who would like to continue to improve his or her drawing abilities. Students will be encouraged to use their drawing skills to express themselves in a visually creative manner.
1280 Painting
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: 2D Design
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This course covers the basic materials, methods, and techniques of painting. The students will learn to work with watercolor, and acrylic. Emphasis will be on understanding color relationships, creative expression, and recognizing the impact of our artistic heritage. DRAWING IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE.
1281 Advanced Painting
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Painting, Teacher approval
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
This advanced course is a continuation of the painting course and is designed for the serious artist who would like to continue to improve his or her painting abilities.
1320 Pottery
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: 3D Design
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This course offers the student the opportunity of exploring various methods and techniques utilized in pottery construction. The student will learn the techniques of hand building and throwing on the potter’s wheel.
1322 Advanced Pottery
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Pottery
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
This course is a continuation of Pottery. The student will design and construct advanced pottery pieces and will explore various techniques associated with pottery. The student may also explore using multimedia approaches to pottery.
1330 Sculpture
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: 3D Design
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
The student will explore the third dimension by working with a variety of materials in order to translate 3-dimensional designs into 3-dimensional sculptural pieces. Students may work with a variety of sculptural materials including clay, wire, metal, plaster, found objects, and paper.
1331 Advanced Sculpture
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Sculpture
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
This course is a continuation of sculpture. The students will continue to explore various materials used in sculpture and to learn advanced techniques. The student may also work on experimental concepts of design, materials, and techniques as well as the multi-media approach.
1605 Digital Media A (Graphic Design)
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: 2D Design
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
At FRHS: We focus on the above skills through an artistic lens, creating artworks and illustrations with a large audience in mind. We will use the programs Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign. In Digital Media, students will analyze and assess current and emerging technologies, while designing and creating multimedia projects that address customer needs and resolve a problem. Students will implement personal and interpersonal skills to prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace environment. The knowledge and skills acquired and practiced will enable students to successfully perform and interact in a technology-driven society. Students will enhance reading, writing, computing, communication, and critical thinking and apply them to the IT environment.
1530 Digital Media B (Advanced Graphic Design)
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Digital Media A
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
At FRHS: We will continue to expand on the skills and ideas learned in Digital Media A. Students will move toward a more independent exploration of the tools available in the programs. Students will continue to work in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign. In Digital Media, students will analyze and assess current and emerging technologies, while designing and creating multimedia projects that address customer needs and resolve a problem. Students will implement personal and interpersonal skills to prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace environment. The knowledge and skills acquired and practiced will enable students to successfully perform and interact in a technology-driven society. Students will enhance reading, writing, computing, communication, and critical thinking and apply them to the IT environment.
1270 Jewelry
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: 3D Design
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
The students will observe and interpret metals and nonmetals through experimentation. Planning of designs,
utilizing the skills of sawing, forging cold connections, soldering, casting, surface enrichment and other beginning
jewelry techniques may be explored. The history and aesthetics of jewelry will be studied. Wire metal (nickel, silver,
brass, copper and sterling silver), wood, fibers and stones may be used. The process of casting is also introduced.
Design and craftsmanship is emphasized. Drawing is strongly recommended before taking the course.
1271 Advanced Jewelry
Credits 5
Prerequisites: Jewelry
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Art
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
This course is a continuation of Jewelry. The students will continue to explore various media and advanced techniques in jewelry.
1300 Photography 1
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: None
Meets requirement(s): Fine & applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This is an introductory high school photography course. Students will study a variety of photographic methods including processing and printing their own photos. Emphasis will be on creativity and photography as a fine art medium. STUDENTS NEED TO FURNISH THEIR OWN 35 MM CAMERA. Photography 1 at the Middle School level does not take the place of this class or is not substitute. At FRHS: If students wish to take Film Photos outside of FRHS, they must furnish their own 35MM Camera.
1310 Creative Photography
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: High School Photography 1
Meets requirements: Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This is an advanced photography course in which creativity and special techniques are emphasized. Students will have the opportunity to explore specific areas of personal interest. STUDENTS NEED TO FURNISH THEIR OWN 35 MM SLR AND DIGITAL CAMERAS. At FRHS: Students will explore digitally enhanced photography using programs such as Adobe Creative Suite as well as applying creative techniques to black and white film photography.
1311 Advanced Photography
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Creative Photo and Teacher approval
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Art
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Advanced Photo is a continuation of Photo 1 and/or Creative Photo. At FRHS: Advanced Photo may be taken after Photo 1. It is for the student who really wants to hone their technical skills. The Advanced Photo student will be encouraged to develop their own personal style and to plan their own areas of focus. Technical understanding of camera controls is required. Students need to furnish their own 35mm SLR camera.
1484 AP Art and Design
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Students MUST have passed 2-D or 3-D Design, two additional studio classes AND obtain teacher approval
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 12
This class provides students the opportunity to work in a variety of art mediums in a studio environment to create a finalized portfolio to submit as part of the AP Studio Art test. The curriculum for this class includes instruction with various mediums, history, aesthetics and evaluation. AP Art and Design is designed for the serious art student wishing to pursue an art related field/education. At FRHS: Advanced Placement Art and Design offers serious art students the opportunity to experience the rigor and rewards of a college course while still in high school. Over the course of a semester, students create a body of 20 original pieces of art (portfolio) that is submitted to the College Board as their Art and Design Exam. Students may choose from three Portfolio options that represent major areas of study: 2D Design, Drawing or 3D Design. This is a college level course with similar expectations: students should expect a minimum of THREE HOURS of work OUTSIDE of class each week, as well as gallery visits, and REQUIRED SUMMER ASSIGNMENTS. All AP Art and Design courses require instructor approval before enrolling.
1211 Two Dimensional Design
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: None
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This is one of the two prerequisites for all studio art courses. The course emphasizes the importance of a strong foundation in the Art Elements through the use of 2-dimensional art media. Emphasis is on finding creative solutions to visual problems. Students must successfully complete both 2-D Design and 3-D Design before continuing in any studio art course. AT FRHS: This course is a pre-requisite for the 2-Dimensional studio courses of Drawing, Painting, Digital Design and Jewelry. While we encourage students to take both 2D and 3D Design courses, only 2D is required for moving on through the 2D Studio courses.
1212 Three Dimensional Design
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: None
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This is one of the two prerequisites for all studio art courses. The course emphasizes the importance of a strong foundation in the Art Elements through the use of 3-dimensional art media. Emphasis is on finding creative solutions to visual problems. Students must successfully complete both 2-D Design and 3-D Design before continuing in any studio art course. AT FRHS: This course is a pre-requisite for the 3-Dimensional studio courses of Pottery, Jewelry and Sculpture. While we encourage students to take both 2D and 3D Design courses, only 3D is required for moving on through the 3D Studio courses.
1041 Integrated Art
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Two Dimensional Design or Three Dimensional Design
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Integrated Art is an adaptive art course that caters to both general education and integrated services students. General education students take on the role of supportive peer helpers for students with disabilities. Participants work in conjunction with paraprofessional aides and classroom teachers to explore modified artistic activities that accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities. This course is NOT the prerequisite for any other art classes. AT FRHS: 2D or 3D Design is the pre-requisite for Integrated Art. All sophomores, juniors, and seniors who have taken 2D or 3D Design can take Integrated Art. Integrated Art is NOT the prerequisite for any other art classes at FRHS.
1340 Studio Art History
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: None
Meets requirement(s): Humanities / Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Studio Art History is designed for the hands-on student who would like to explore history and culture through an arts-based lens. It allows students to earn Humanities credit or Fine & Applied Arts credit toward graduation requirements. While the main focus will be on the contributions and the evolution of art throughout history, students will also dig into the cultures as a whole. We will analyze how geography, literature and human advancement have reflected and influenced society across time. Studio projects will relate directly to the art forms being studied from the time period explored. General studio work will include drawing, painting and sculpture.
1240 Drawing
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: 2D Design
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This course will provide an opportunity for students to improve their own drawing skills in contour, gesture, and creation of value while encouraging them to think and express themselves creatively. Students will explore the use of a wide variety of techniques and media such as pencil, conte, charcoal, color pencils, marker, pen and ink, and pastels. Drawing is recommended before taking other art classes.
1225 Digital Drawing & Painting
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Drawing
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Explore the sweet- spot where traditional art and new technologies meet. Students will use digital drawing tablets in combination with powerful digital art software to create original artwork.
1241 Advanced Drawing
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Drawing
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
This advanced course is a continuation of the drawing course and is designed for the serious artist who would like to continue to improve his or her drawing abilities. Students will be encouraged to use their drawing skills to express themselves in a visually creative manner.
1280 Painting
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: 2D Design
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This course covers the basic materials, methods, and techniques of painting. The students will learn to work with watercolor, and acrylic. Emphasis will be on understanding color relationships, creative expression, and recognizing the impact of our artistic heritage. DRAWING IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE.
1281 Advanced Painting
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Painting, Teacher approval
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
This advanced course is a continuation of the painting course and is designed for the serious artist who would like to continue to improve his or her painting abilities.
1320 Pottery
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: 3D Design
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This course offers the student the opportunity of exploring various methods and techniques utilized in pottery construction. The student will learn the techniques of hand building and throwing on the potter’s wheel.
1322 Advanced Pottery
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Pottery
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
This course is a continuation of Pottery. The student will design and construct advanced pottery pieces and will explore various techniques associated with pottery. The student may also explore using multimedia approaches to pottery.
1330 Sculpture
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: 3D Design
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
The student will explore the third dimension by working with a variety of materials in order to translate 3-dimensional designs into 3-dimensional sculptural pieces. Students may work with a variety of sculptural materials including clay, wire, metal, plaster, found objects, and paper.
1331 Advanced Sculpture
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Sculpture
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
This course is a continuation of sculpture. The students will continue to explore various materials used in sculpture and to learn advanced techniques. The student may also work on experimental concepts of design, materials, and techniques as well as the multi-media approach.
1605 Digital Media A (Graphic Design)
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: 2D Design
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
At FRHS: We focus on the above skills through an artistic lens, creating artworks and illustrations with a large audience in mind. We will use the programs Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign. In Digital Media, students will analyze and assess current and emerging technologies, while designing and creating multimedia projects that address customer needs and resolve a problem. Students will implement personal and interpersonal skills to prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace environment. The knowledge and skills acquired and practiced will enable students to successfully perform and interact in a technology-driven society. Students will enhance reading, writing, computing, communication, and critical thinking and apply them to the IT environment.
1530 Digital Media B (Advanced Graphic Design)
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Digital Media A
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
At FRHS: We will continue to expand on the skills and ideas learned in Digital Media A. Students will move toward a more independent exploration of the tools available in the programs. Students will continue to work in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign. In Digital Media, students will analyze and assess current and emerging technologies, while designing and creating multimedia projects that address customer needs and resolve a problem. Students will implement personal and interpersonal skills to prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace environment. The knowledge and skills acquired and practiced will enable students to successfully perform and interact in a technology-driven society. Students will enhance reading, writing, computing, communication, and critical thinking and apply them to the IT environment.
1270 Jewelry
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: 3D Design
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
The students will observe and interpret metals and nonmetals through experimentation. Planning of designs,
utilizing the skills of sawing, forging cold connections, soldering, casting, surface enrichment and other beginning
jewelry techniques may be explored. The history and aesthetics of jewelry will be studied. Wire metal (nickel, silver,
brass, copper and sterling silver), wood, fibers and stones may be used. The process of casting is also introduced.
Design and craftsmanship is emphasized. Drawing is strongly recommended before taking the course.
1271 Advanced Jewelry
Credits 5
Prerequisites: Jewelry
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Art
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
This course is a continuation of Jewelry. The students will continue to explore various media and advanced techniques in jewelry.
1300 Photography 1
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: None
Meets requirement(s): Fine & applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This is an introductory high school photography course. Students will study a variety of photographic methods including processing and printing their own photos. Emphasis will be on creativity and photography as a fine art medium. STUDENTS NEED TO FURNISH THEIR OWN 35 MM CAMERA. Photography 1 at the Middle School level does not take the place of this class or is not substitute. At FRHS: If students wish to take Film Photos outside of FRHS, they must furnish their own 35MM Camera.
1310 Creative Photography
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: High School Photography 1
Meets requirements: Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This is an advanced photography course in which creativity and special techniques are emphasized. Students will have the opportunity to explore specific areas of personal interest. STUDENTS NEED TO FURNISH THEIR OWN 35 MM SLR AND DIGITAL CAMERAS. At FRHS: Students will explore digitally enhanced photography using programs such as Adobe Creative Suite as well as applying creative techniques to black and white film photography.
1311 Advanced Photography
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Creative Photo and Teacher approval
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Art
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Advanced Photo is a continuation of Photo 1 and/or Creative Photo. At FRHS: Advanced Photo may be taken after Photo 1. It is for the student who really wants to hone their technical skills. The Advanced Photo student will be encouraged to develop their own personal style and to plan their own areas of focus. Technical understanding of camera controls is required. Students need to furnish their own 35mm SLR camera.
1484 AP Art and Design
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Students MUST have passed 2-D or 3-D Design, two additional studio classes AND obtain teacher approval
Meets requirement(s): Fine & Applied Arts
Open to Grades: 12
This class provides students the opportunity to work in a variety of art mediums in a studio environment to create a finalized portfolio to submit as part of the AP Studio Art test. The curriculum for this class includes instruction with various mediums, history, aesthetics and evaluation. AP Art and Design is designed for the serious art student wishing to pursue an art related field/education. At FRHS: Advanced Placement Art and Design offers serious art students the opportunity to experience the rigor and rewards of a college course while still in high school. Over the course of a semester, students create a body of 20 original pieces of art (portfolio) that is submitted to the College Board as their Art and Design Exam. Students may choose from three Portfolio options that represent major areas of study: 2D Design, Drawing or 3D Design. This is a college level course with similar expectations: students should expect a minimum of THREE HOURS of work OUTSIDE of class each week, as well as gallery visits, and REQUIRED SUMMER ASSIGNMENTS. All AP Art and Design courses require instructor approval before enrolling.