What are Graphic and Visual Arts?
In high school, Graphic and Visual Arts courses focus on developing students’ creativity, design skills, and understanding of visual communication. These courses often blend traditional art techniques with digital tools, helping students express ideas visually while preparing them for careers or further education in creative fields.
Here’s a breakdown of what each area involves:
Graphic Arts:
Focuses on digital design and visual communication.
Teaches students to use design software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
Covers typography, logo design, layout composition, and branding.
Often includes digital illustration, photo editing, and web design.
Projects might include creating posters, advertisements, and social media graphics.
Visual Arts:
Emphasizes traditional art forms like drawing, painting, sculpture, and printmaking.
Explores art history, art theory, and creative expression.
Develops foundational skills in color theory, perspective, and composition.
May include mixed media projects and portfolio development.
High school Graphic and Visual Arts courses encourage students to think creatively, solve visual problems, and build technical skills — whether through hands-on artmaking or digital design. These courses also help prepare students for college programs or careers in fields like graphic design, animation, illustration, advertising, and multimedia production.
