STILL LIFE DRAWINGStudents learned about drawing techniques along with the elements of artistic production including line, shape, space, and value. Through observational studies, students completed still life drawings using charcoal. This unit focuses upon the study of light source, gradation, contrast, and shading techniques.

FIGURE DRAWINGStudents used the drawing skills they had gained from the still life unit to apply these techniques to figure drawing from a live model. Through observational studies, students completed drawings of the human form using chalk pastel and charcoal. This unit further developed the study of light source, gradation, contrast, and shading techniques while introducing the use of value in color, the human form, and a chalk pastel.

SELF-PORTRAITSStudents continued to develop observational drawing techniques through self-portraits using a mirror. Students used both charcoal and chalk pastels to depict their own image. This unit was used in conjunction with the figure drawing unit as a more focused study on how to approach the facial features.

STILL LIFE PAINTINGStudents began an in-depth study of color theory, color mixing, local color, tints and shades through the painting of a still life. The basic skills students developed through the observational drawing units served as a foundation for moving into painting from observation.

ABSTRACT DRAWINGAfter spending the year on in-depth observational study of realistic drawing and painting, students then were able to use this understanding to break down the elements to create abstract artwork. Students chose an interior space as a reference point and then created their own abstraction of realistic objects or space.

ABSTRACT PAINTING Students learned about abstraction and enlarging through the work of painter Georgia OKeefe. After studying color theory, color mixing, and acrylic paint techniques, students created their own compositions of abstraction inspired by live flowers.

INDEPENDENT STUDYStudents who are working at a more advanced level have the option of doing an independent study on a theme and concept of their choice. The independent study student develops a cohesive body of work exploring the creation of artwork based upon his or her interests.

Artist StatementThe pictures I draw are things I see everyday. I see violence, the police harassing people, and people trying to find ways to have fun and make money. I want people to see what I see everyday. I want people to see how things are where I live. I want people to see the good times and the bad times I see. I dont like when Im judged because of where Im from. Sometimes people think the people in my neighborhood behave the way we do for no reason. I want to show people why we act the way we do. I want to show people how the environment Im in effects the little kids.

Artist Statement:My art is my voice, a powerful interpretation of my deepest thoughts, hidden emotions, and strongest desires. The images I create are coined from personal experiences, fears, and interests. These ideas and experiences are better perceived through drawings rather than spoken. My still-life images are everyday objects that I personally choose because of their simple appearance and deep complexity. I like the challenge of trying to capture the definition of an object and accurately translating lines, shapes, light, tint, and proper value levels onto a material.

Beginning Independent Study Students

SERVICE LEARNING PROJECTS

THE MEMORY PROJECTStudents learned about civil unrest in Uganda and worked in small groups to write, illustrate and bind childrens books. These books were sent to shelters in Uganda where children seek refuge.

MURAL CLUBStudents collaborated on a design to illustrate the administrations chosen theme Steinmetz students on the move. Students then transferred and painted the design in the school hallway.

MURAL CLUB(work in progress)Students collaborated on a design to honor Barack Obamas influence in our country. The chosen theme was CHANGE. Students planned, designed, transferred, and painted their design to represent change in our lives and school.

KEEP CHICAGO CLEAN!Students painted their own designs for Chicagos trash cans to remind everyone to keep our city clean.

SPECIAL EVENTS

GALLERY

OPENINGS

STUDENT SHOWCASE

SNOW DAYS CHICAGO!

SNOW DAYS CHICAGO!

Field trips to the Museum of Contemporary Art

CREATE!