Two-dimensional (2D) designs are artworks on a piece of paper or any flat surface.

More formally, 2D design refers to a design with only length and width. Some examples of 2D design projects are drawings, paintings, collages, photography, and digital art. 

The curriculum of 2D design revolves around the elements and principals of design, a term that refers to the guidelines for creating artwork. 

Students learn to use these elements and principles as tools to shape their work. SJC design students also learn to use a variety of traditional media, from pencils and paint to computers and iPads. 

Three-dimensional (3D) design can be a sculpture, a piece of pottery, or an installation and refers to art that has height, width and depth.

It can represent something concrete, such as a person or an animal, or it can simply be an abstract design. 

The curriculum revolves around the elements and principles of 3D design, a term that refers to the guiding principles of 3D artwork.

Students learn to use these elements and principles to shape their work and have the opportunity to make artwork using clay, plaster, wood, found objects, and other materials. Students learn how to make hand-built clay work and how to work on the pottery wheel. St. John’s art studios have a kiln and five pottery wheels. 

Drawings and paintings are traditionally created with paint, pencil, charcoal, and the like; however, this medium now includes digital creations, as long as they are done by hand. 

Our students start out learning basic drawing skills and gain experience through assignments that push students in both skill and creativity. They learn to draw from life, imagination, and photos. They also learn how to use their iPad as a tool for finding and manipulating images to use as a reference. 

St. John’s art curriculum covers a variety of mediums, including pencil, colored pencil, charcoal, pastel, acrylic, watercolor, and ink.

Students work on different surfaces (e.g., canvas and paper) and learn techniques for using each of these mediums. They experiment with different subject matters and styles, both realistic and abstract. Different styles of famous artists and artistic movements are covered.  

Media arts classes use digital media and technology in combination with traditional media as a tool for the creation of art.

Students combine visual arts with non-visual elements, such as sound, video, motion graphics, and print media. This often merges multiple approaches within a single artwork. Students explore how combining these elements creates new meaning within a work of art.

Topics include digital painting and photography, graphics, and 3D printing technology, among others. This course also focuses on literacy in an evolving and changing media. 

St. John’s art and clay clubs are collaborative spaces where students engage in a variety of creative projects that encourage self-expression through different artistic mediums.

Each member contributes their unique style, fostering a diverse environment where students can share ideas and learn from one another.

Both clubs meet monthly and are open to all students.