The Art Department offers a supportive environment where students are able to explore a range of art making experiences to reach their artist potential.
With a modern, fully-equipped senior workroom, students have all the facilities they need to prepare for a wide variety of creative careers. These include twelve Mac computers, broadband Internet connection and access to laser printing.
Art is an option subject that can be taken from Year 9 through to Year 13 level including Art Design at Years 12 and 13 and Year 13 Photography. All senior classes are achievement standard based.
At Year 9: Students are introduced to a range of art fields with an emphasis on drawing skills. Topics include still life and Maori art.
At Year 10: Students are focused on the theory and development of drawing skills with portraiture as their primary subject matter. This course is largely based on the book ‘Drawing on the right side of the Brain’ by Betty Edwards.
At Year 11: Students are able to choose their own theme for the year based on the topic ‘land and occupation’. This is a practical based course worth 24 achievement standard credits.
At Year 12: Students have the option of taking art practical or art design. Both courses are worth 24 Level 2 credits. The practical course covers the theme Te Unga Mai or ‘the arrival’ and takes a close look at the meeting between local Tangata whenua and lieutenant James Cook, and the crew of the Endeavour. The design course involves students undertaking a promotional or corporate design brief of their choice.
At Year 13: Students are focused on specific art fields including art paint, art design or art photography. All courses run separately throughout the year and are worth 24 level 3 credits.
Staff:
Mr D. Watson HOD
Mr K. Falaoa