UPPER SCHOOL COURSES
In the main lobby of Manlius Pebble Hill School you will find the Solomon Family Art Gallery. This endowed gallery showcases the work of both internationally renowned artists and budding student artists. At MPH art and creative expression is revered and not limited to formal instruction time. Our art program is about more than the sharing of a skill; it is about creating an atmosphere of openness and exploration.
Students are invited to create original works in a variety of media and to become literate, lifelong aestheticians. The incorporation of art history in classes, visiting artists, and visits to museums and artist workshops help to develop each student's perspective on the arts. Emphasis is always placed on respectful nurturing of individual creativity. The medium of choice ranges from traditional art materials, to photography, film, and computer-generated art. Routinely nearly 10% of MPH’s most talented students will continue a formal study of art at the nation’s leading art institutions; recent graduates have attended The Art Institute of Chicago, Maryland Institute College of Art, and Rhode Island School of Design.
MPH students vary widely in the intensity with which they pursue the fine arts, from those who are experimenting and stretching themselves to learn new ways of self-expression to those who have committed themselves to the life of the artist. The fine arts program is flexible enough in breadth and depth that all these students can have the art program they need, whether it is one that permits sampling from the array of course offerings or one that is focused on sophisticated portfolio development and college-level critique. For samples of our student art work, please see the enclosed color calendar.
Drawing III (1st semester, ½ academic credit)
Students will continue to expand skills acquired in Drawing I & II. A range of drawing materials and techniques will be explored, with a strong emphasis on observational skills. Assignments will focus on understanding compositional elements of design and strengthening problem solving skills. Weekly sketchbook assignments, to be completed outside of class, are a required part of this course. Prerequisite: Drawing 2 or permission of instructor (comparable experience)
Drawing IV(1st semester, ½ academic credit)
This advanced drawing course offers continued exploration and skill building in a variety of drawing materials and surfaces. Projects will be more complex and challenging, requiring students to work in a more self-directed manner. Weekly sketchbook assignments, to be completed outside of class, are a required part of this course. Emphasis will be placed on individual development of a portfolio. Prerequisite: Drawing 3
Link to the course
This course teaches students basic techniques of fired glass enameling on copper and silver, including Limoges and cloisonné processes. Jewelry and decorative objects may be made. Emphasis is on craftsmanship, and instruction encompasses all necessary skills, including basic metalworking.
Introduction to Studio Art (1stsemester)(½ non-academic credit)
(Grades 9-12)
This course introduces the basic principles and language of 2D and 3D design, including composition, layout, and color theory. Long term units concentrate on the process of 2D design and color theory, photocopied collage, and 3D additive construction. Students learn patience and technical skills while developing creative concepts.
Metalworking (1st semester)(½ academic credit)
(Grades 10-12)
Students explore basic techniques in metalsmithing including sawing, filing, drilling, forging, soldering, and bezel setting stones. Instruction emphasizes skill development, practical jewelry making, and craftsmanship. Design research is both text and web based.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Photocollage (1st semester) (½ non-academic credit)
(Grades 10-12) Students learn to create several large-scale collages by cutting up and manipulating their own photographic images. Both color and black and white photos may be used, and a variety of subjects are assigned, including landscapes, self-portraits, room interiors, architectural elements, and cityscapes. No previous photo experience is required; students are responsible for purchase and outside processing of film in a timely manner.
Photography I (1st or 2nd semester)(¼ non-academic credit)
This introductory photography course allows students to learn the basic principles of black and white film photography. While using a 35mm single-lens camera, students will gain a better understanding of proper camera handling, f-stops, shutter speeds, etc. In the darkroom, students will learn how to develop and print their own film.
No previous experience is needed for this class; however, a 35mm (SLR) manual camera is required. If needed, a camera will be provided. Kodak Tri-X film (400ASA/ISO) is recommended for this course.
Photography II (1st or 2nd semester)(¼ non-academic credit)
In Photo II, students are allowed to use a digital camera, but can continue using a film camera if desired. Here more emphasis is placed on photographic composition, while learning how to use a digital camera. Students will be assigned various topics to photograph, such as strong lines, hands, shadows, still-life, textures and figure study.
This course helps students better understand the principles of photography as an art. Assignments allow more individual creativity and expression.
Prerequisite: Photo I or permission of instructor.
Photography III (1st or 2nd semester)(¼ non-academic credit)
Photo III students are assigned various topics centered on photographing people, considered one of the hardest skills in photography. Assignments will include topics such as a window portrait, a portrait using the rules of thirds, and a face with character.
In Photo III, the students gain confidence in using their camera, while improving their photographic composition.
Prerequisite: Photo II.
Senior Portfolio Prep (1st semester) (1/4 non-academic credit)
Senior Portfolio Prep allows the student to work solely on their senior photography portfolio for Scholastics. This portfolio consists of eight pieces of their best work and will need to be printed and mounted for judging.
Pottery I (1st semester)(½ non-academic credit)
Pottery I introduces a variety of techniques, including hand building (pinching, slab and coiling) and an introduction to wheel throwing. Students produce both decorative and functional pieces, with an emphasis on craftsmanship and exploration. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Pottery II (2nd semester)(½ non-academic credit)
Pottery II introduces advanced techniques of hand building, glazing, and construction, and offers an opportunity to develop more advanced skills on the potter’s wheel. Instruction stresses problem solving, skills development, and an awareness of contemporary and historical pottery pieces.
Prerequisite: Pottery I or permission of the instructor.
Sculpture (2nd semester) (½ non-academic credit)
(Grades 10-12) This course teaches additive and subtractive sculptural methods from basic maquette construction to stone carving. Students learn the techniques and tools required to work with a variety of materials. There is also a group art installation project dealing with environmental or conceptual art.
Prerequisite: Principles of Design or permission of instructor.
2D Design (all year) (1 academic credit)
This course covers the fundamentals of design: composition, layout, and color theory. A variety of media are used, starting with black and white technical inking and photocopied images, and continuing through color mixing, painting techniques, photocollage, and product design.
2D is a required prerequisite for other advanced art courses.
The Digital Photography course is designed to show you how to use your camera and computer to capture, edit, manipulate and produce top quality digital photography images for both the Internet and printing. Gain control and confidence in your digital photography, with a study of both composition and technical elements. This course is designed to help you appreciate the different functions, controls and options available to the digital photographer.
Yearbook class is charged with the responsibility of producing the yearly chronicle. During the process of producing the book instruction will be given in the basics of book publishing, including terminology, styles, and physical structure. Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Bridge and online design programs provide the tools necessary to the design process. Design instruction focuses on producing appealing page design by manipulating use of fonts, images, and design elements. The course meets every other day, 3 times per cycle. The course receives 1 academic credit for the full year or .5 academic credits for one semester.