AP Studio Art is a college level art class taught by Mr. Pidhirny. The course is largely unstructured, with students developing their own guiding question that serves as the focal point of 15 separate projects. Students choose between 3-D, which includes ceramics and sculpture; drawing and painting, which includes all mark making mediums; and 2-D, which includes photography, collage and everything in drawing and painting.
Here are some highlighted projects from the class of 2024, as well as comments about the class or their projects.
Mr. Pidhirny:
“AP Art requires a great deal of hard work and dedication. The AP Art students this year are some of the hardest working and most talented I have seen. They are largely on their own as they work on their own projects and that requires a great deal of discipline to stay focused and on task, and this group is always working. I look forward to AP Art every day and this group of students makes it easy to do so.”
Georgia Kriebel
Guiding Question: How does one moment in time tell a story?
3-D
”The class gave me more freedom than other classes in allowing me to explore my artistic style. It’s very challenging with the amount of projects and addressing our theme, but is very fun if you’re interested in art and exploring your creative style.”
”I’ve improved a lot with my projects and learning which mediums work best for me.”
Lauren Tiesse
Guiding Question: How does lighting affect scenery?
Drawing and Painting
”Overall, a project can feel rough, or one project might not turn out the way you wanted, but at the end you feel proud. You want to try different mediums, and you get the sense of forming something new that helps you make your next project.”
Anna Theis
Guiding Question: How can I portray the 5 senses through a series of 3-D works?
3-D
“This piece is shadow art, which is using light and shadows to cast an image onto a backdrop. I think it’s cool that there’s randomness until it lines up to show people dancing. I liked the process of making that piece because it was a lot of experimentation, and I used skills that I learned in mosaic classes over the years.”
Annica Kagle
Guiding Question: How can I show architecture through different mediums?
3-D
”We’re a really hard-working class. We do our own thing and do our art in different ways, but still really work together.”
WM Edit- No photos?
Liv Parker
Guiding Question: How do humans have an impact on climate change and what is their responsibility to the earth?
Drawing and Painting
”Take this class if you’re really willing to put in time inside and outside of school. It’s really enjoyable when you pick a theme you’re passionate about.”
Hanna Carver
Guiding Question: How does color contribute to a city’s visual identity?
2-D
“I incorporate my love for traveling with a color that reminds me of a place the most, so all my projects use my own photographs from places I’ve traveled to. It’s nice being able to use my own photos because they connect with my message as well as holding more meaning with the memories of my time in a city. Having a platform to connect my interests, digital design, traveling, color, and media has been really interesting.”
Eliza Kirk
Guiding Question: How does it feel to witness or be a part of bittersweet moments?
Drawing and Painting
“I recommend taking the class even if you’re not the best artist. You can always find a way to improve. My past projects versus my most recent projects have shown so much improvement. Just don’t feel intimidated to join AP Art. It’s nice to be able to express your emotions and take a break during the school day to explore yourself.”
Dakota Romonovich
Guiding Question: How can you capture fantasy creatures in their natural aura?
Drawing and Painting
“The class is really enjoyable, especially working with classmates I’ve been to school with for such a long time. We create a bond with each other through art. You learn a lot. You can start out knowing a lot, but there is always room for improvement. You can try it out and say ‘oh wow this actually looks great.’ And you might not always be happy with your pieces, but that’s not the end of the world. You can always go back and try again.”
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