Visual Arts Pre-Conservatory Pathway

Course Overview

Using both traditional methods and modern design, this program nurtures artistic talent through fine arts, graphic design, and digital art (illustration/entertainment design/animation). Students will gain experience in various media, fostering creativity alongside technical skills. The curriculum integrates foundational technical training and specialty education, which students will progress towards, through select college-level electives that contribute to a standout portfolio.

Audition Requirements

Portfolio Submission

Applicants must submit a portfolio of 5–10 works completed within the past three years. The portfolio must include drawing and/or painting pieces and may also feature other 2D medium, sculpture, graphic design, illustration, and/or animation. These works can be in any medium and may stem from either assigned projects or self-directed explorations.

Recommended Works:
Applicants are strongly encouraged to include pieces created from direct observation (rather than imagination, photographs, or videos).

Portfolio Expectations:
Selected pieces should showcase:

• A broad range of ideas, curiosity, and experimentation
• Technical skills and creative approaches
• Evidence of artistic growth and personal expression

Live Audition Session

All applicants will participate in a live drawing session with conservatory faculty, completing a timed assignment based on a provided prompt.

• 2D/3D Fine Art track: Materials and subjects will be supplied.
• Computer Arts track: Applicants will create a digital illustration using Procreate or Photoshop on the school’s digital tablets. Guidance of the program will be provided by the teacher for the assignment.

Course Description

Visual Arts Foundations
(Each class category below requires specialized equipment, materials, and faculty. Feasibility depends on facility capabilities, budgets, enrollment, and staffing.)

This yearlong studio course offers students a comprehensive introduction to essential visual arts skills and concepts. Modeled after foundational courses in contemporary art and design schools, students explore a variety of media and techniques, including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and design. This course builds a strong foundation for future artistic study and creative growth.

2D Art Classes (Drawing & Painting I & II/Printmaking & Mix Media I & II)
(Each class category below requires specialized equipment, materials, and faculty. Feasibility depends on facility capabilities, budgets, enrollment, and staffing.)

These courses introduce students to the fundamentals of two-dimensional art through activities in drawing, painting, printmaking, and mixed media. Students explore concepts such as line, shape, and color while experimenting with diverse materials and techniques. Designed for beginners to intermediate learners, the classes help students develop and refine their 2D art-making skills.

3D Art Classes (3D Introduction/Ceramics & Sculpture I & II)
(Each class category below requires specialized equipment, materials, and faculty. Feasibility depends on facility capabilities, budgets, enrollment, and staffing.)

Students in these courses explore the basics of three-dimensional art by creating sculptures and installations using materials such as clay, paper, and mixed media. These classes help students develop spatial awareness, experiment with texture and form, and engage in conceptual thinking about contemporary issues in sculpture. By the end of the course, students complete a body of work demonstrating their growth from beginner to intermediate levels in 3D art.

Computer Design Classes (Graphic Design I & II)

This course introduces students to the creative process of visual communication through digital design. Using age-appropriate tools and software, students learn problem-solving, explore design principles, and create projects such as posters, logos, and product designs. Intermediate-level students engage with real-world projects, applying creativity and technical skills while thinking like professional designers.

Computer Art Classes (Commercial Illustration I & II/Entertainment Design)

In these courses, students explore digital illustration and storytelling through character design, environment creation, and imaginative concepts. Using tablets and design software, students develop the skills needed to create visually compelling work inspired by games, animation, and entertainment media. The classes guide students from beginner to intermediate levels, focusing on concept development and execution.

Performance Opportunities

Opportunities for students to showcase their visual art works include leading and organizing activities such as:

• Public & private gallery exhibitions
• Student-run fundraiser flee market
• School visual decoration & design