This course spotlights drawing as a form of communication and introduces students to the elements and principles of art through hands-on activities. Students will sharpen their observation skills using a variety of art media, including graphite, charcoal, pastel, and collage materials. Through practice and experimentation, students will become adept at using basic drawing techniques and processes to depict the world around them, as well as to express their thoughts and feelings. In order to provide a comprehensive study of drawing, this course will analyze and interpret drawings created by others, introduce the concepts of aesthetics and art criticism, and explore the practical application of drawing in a variety of careers. Virtual field trips to art museums and artists’ studios, as well as methods to build, organize, and maintain an artist’s portfolio, are included in this course.