Visual/Performing Arts
Architecture: City as a Classroom
Architecture: City as a Classroom
Upper School architecture classes recently went on their second site visit of the 2021-22 school year. The students traveled to DC to deepen their understanding of the social, historical, and aesthetic influences that bring forth great buildings. Faculty member Cort Morgan took 17 architecture students on a walking tour of the National Mall monuments with alumni guest and practicing architect Charles Sparkman ’05.
At Potomac, in all grade levels, we think of the arts as expressive pathways, both inward to the mind and heart of the individual and outward to the wider world. While emphasizing the acquisition of skills and aesthetic judgment, we respect the instincts, intuitions, and ideas our students bring to their experience in the studios each day.
All students are required to earn a minimum of one and a half credits in Fine Arts courses. This requirement must be fulfilled by selecting courses in at least two out of three areas: studio art, drama, or music.
Students are required to complete one course by the end of Grade 10 and are encouraged to go beyond the minimum requirement.
Beyond the Campus
In addition to direct experience in the art studio, field trips to local museums and galleries, lessons about art and culture, as well as references and conversations about particular artists or techniques complement the students’ understanding of their own studio practice.
Requirements
3 semesters in at least two of three areas: music, theater, or visual art; or 4 full years in the same area: music, theater, or visual art.
Course Spotlights
This course compares the Classical and Romantic temperaments found in Western art music while surveying some of the masterpieces composed between 1750 and 1900.
Stagecraft introduces the beginning theater artist to theories and practices of theater technology.
This course invites students to learn and apply design principles and the user experience to a variety of digital formats, including graphic, video, and web.
