Graphic Design will provide students with a foundation in design basics and will introduce students to the field of graphic design. Students will explore the history of graphic design, learn about famous graphic designers, see how the tools and technology used by designers have evolved, and discover how designers use the elements and principles of art and design to create successful pieces. The course introduces typography and demonstrates how to creatively use type. The course also shows how to work with different types of layouts, work with a grid system, and work with advanced design concepts, such as minimalism. Students will explore the design process, which includes creativity, planning, visualizing, and constructing images through many different projects in which students create logos, business cards, letterheads, envelopes, mailers, flyers, posters, brochures, magazine layouts, and package designs. The course also covers concepts such as branding and advertising, while delving into the printing process so that students can see how design projects are completed from start to finish. Finally, students will explore non-print design work, such as Web design and multimedia. Students will also look at various jobs in graphic design and explore the steps they can take, such as internships, networking, and creating a portfolio and resume, to gain a successful career as a graphic designer.

Fashion & Design is an advanced level course for students interested in learning the intricate process of how the fashion system works. This is an in-depth study of the fashion business in sequential order from concept to consumer. The fashion business involves a series of buying supplies, creating and developing a new product, and marketing the product. The fashion industry includes all the processes involved with producing raw materials, apparel, and accessories. Also, it encompasses the retail stores that sell fashion merchandise to the public. It is important for executives in the fashion trade to know how all of these processes interrelate. Students will learn that the decision making process is complex and not just about the latest designers, styles, or trends of an era. Particular emphasis will be on the planning, manufacturing, and marketing processes throughout history.

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.