2D, 3D, & Digital Arts - Seattle Academy The Hub 2D, 3D, & Digital Arts At Seattle Academy, Visual Arts are not just about technique—they’re about thinking creatively, solving problems, and making meaning . Students explore drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, fiber arts & fashion design, digital media, and graphic design in a program that supports creative risk-taking and individual expression, all while building a strong foundation in the Elements and Principles of Art and Design. Inspired by art history, visiting artists, current issues, and their own lived experience, SAAS student artists develop a visual language to tell stories, express perspectives, and explore new ways of seeing the world. Portfolio Pathways & Advanced Study Students interested in a more focused commitment to their art practice may apply for Intermediate and Advanced Visual Arts courses, which offer mentorship in building a cohesive body of work and exploring personal voice. Entry to these classes is based on a portfolio review, and students are guided in documenting their work for college applications and public exhibitions. Gallery Arts Walks and all-school showcases throughout the year offer opportunities for all students to celebrate and share their art with the broader community. What Students Learn Creative Risk-Taking: Learn to move beyond the blank page and embrace experimentation. Artistic Language: Build fluency in the elements and principles of design. Conceptual Thinking: Explore how art intersects with identity, culture, and ideas. Portfolio Development: Create and refine work for college and professional applications. MEET THE Visual & Media Arts FACULTY CREATE A PORTFOLIO We celebrate student work with displays throughout our campus during the year, in our trimester Gallery Arts Walks, and in our Senior Advanced spring art show. Intermediate and advanced students are given guidance in building a body of work and a portfolio, which is used in both full and supplemental college applications. Senior work is highlighted during our annual Spring art show. Middle School Middle School: A Foundation in Form and Expression In Middle School, students begin their artistic journey by developing essential visual skills and confidence in self-expression. Through a variety of media, students learn to: Observe and draw from life Think spatially and work in 3D Understand color theory and composition Experiment with materials such as paint, clay, mixed-media, and digital tools In 8th grade, students are introduced to digital media and creative technology using iPads—exploring photography, animation, sound, and video as artistic tools. Across all grades, teachers encourage curiosity, problem-solving, and original thinking. MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM GUIDE Upper School Upper School: Dive Deep and Define Your Voice Upper School students build on their foundational experiences with a wide array of elective courses in both studio and digital arts. After completing Beginning Studio Arts in 9th grade, students can branch into specialized courses in: Advanced Drawing & Painting Ceramics & Sculpture Fiber Arts & Mixed Media Photography, Film & Graphic Design Students explore personal themes and technical challenges through sustained projects, critiques, and hands-on studio time. In advanced classes, students develop a body of work and a portfolio that can be used for art school applications or to supplement college applications for other disciplines. SAAS student work is displayed throughout the campus, and Advanced Visual Arts students are featured in the Spring Senior Art Show—a culminating celebration of their artistic development. Upper School Curriculum Guide Think Spatially and Take Risks Beginning-level courses emphasize skills such as learning to see, to think spatially, and to take creative risks. Variety of Offerings Classroom specifics include an introduction to drawing, painting, color theory, graphic design, and working in 3D. Students also work from life to learn volume and form, thus leading to more sophisticated abstractions. Build Your Portfolio Students may develop a portfolio either for their application to post-secondary art school or as a supplement to a non-art major college application, and students are given guidance in building a body of work and a portfolio. Art at SAAS is Everywhere Our campus serves as a living gallery, with student artwork on display throughout the year—sparking dialogue, reflection, and pride. Whether it’s a pencil drawing or a mixed-media installation, every piece tells a story of learning, creativity, and bold expression.