Academics

Art

Art education at Bethany School is presented with the idea that any one can learn to draw and to develop their own creativity. In order to accomplish this goal students work with drawing at all grade levels. They also are introduced to and encouraged to use the Elements of Design (line, color, shape, space, texture, value and form) and the Principles of Design (balance, variety, unity, pattern, emphasis, contrast, rhythm). The students are introduced to Art History so that they will be able to see how the "pros" create art with the idea that it will help them to develop an appreciation for art and to develop their own creative eye. Besides drawing and painting, all students work with three dimensional media and craft projects. Our students are fortunate to have two 45 minute art periods a week.

Grade 1: Students learn to draw by exploring a variety of lines and then forming them into shapes. These shapes then may be used to make any person, animal, plant or thing that we wish. Color is approached by using finger paint, temper and watercolor to learn the primary colors and to mix the secondary colors. Three dimensional works are created by using paper, modeling clay and Model Magic. Holidays are important and exciting so they form the motivation for many of our art craft projects.

Grade 2: Drawing skills are further developed by observing animals, plants and people (both in photographs and by going outside to draw on our beautiful campus). Painting too is also very important as we learn to change the value of a color by using black and white . We use our Cultural Unit as inspiration for art projects. And we create three dimensional works with clay that is fired and glazed as well as by using paper mache, paper and found object sculpture. Art History becomes more important as we begin to study famous artists and to use their work as motivation for our own.

Grade 3: The study of drawing continues by beginning to learn contour line drawing, a process which enables any one to draw realistically. We paint with tempera and watercolor. Three dimensional works include clay as well as puppets. Cultural studies at this level inspire us as we work with fabric. Additionally, students work is entered in the Junior Duck Stamp Contest, where many students have been recognized with awards.

Grade 4: Art history both of the Western World and of the Eastern World is emphasized at this level. Drawing and painting still are an important part of the program with the inclusion of a closer study of famous artist and his/her work. Three dimensional works include clay and papier-mache, with the addition of medieval shields made from foil and cardboard. Printing is an art form that is introduced by making sandpaper prints. The craft for the year is weaving.

Grade 5: The studies of contour line drawing and Art History are continued. Acrylics are introduced as the medium used for painting. The social studies research project provides us with the opportunity to work with portrait drawing. Stained glass, plaster African masks, printing and ceramic are favorite projects.

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Grade 6: Social studies and art mesh very nicely at this level with the study of the art of the Egyptians with clay cartouche, Greek and Roman architecture and Medieval art with calligraphy. A trip to Glendale Square provides inspiration for a watercolor painting. The Junior Duck Stamp Contest is also revisited here.

Grades 7 and 8 : Although students are scheduled for just one art class a week, they have the opportunity to explore the art form of choice in a Quest class. Work with drawing and painting with acrylics continues, as well as linoleum block printing, and working with clay. Wire sculpture is a special project for the eighth graders,whereas seventh graders explore metal repouse.