Visual Arts

In visual arts, students at all grade levels work with a variety of materials and fine craft techniques.

From learning the basic fundamentals of art and exploring the principles of design, to experimenting with various materials, to learning that the history of art is a record of different civilizations and cultures, Charlotte Country Day's visual arts program develops students' abilities often with award-winning results.

Lower School
Visual arts at the Lower School level focuses on growth, exploration, and enjoyment. Children learn the fundamentals of art and the principles of design. In addition to painting, drawing, and collage, students work with a variety of materials and fine craft techniques such as clay, weaving, and tempera. Learning experiences in art are designed and presented in a manner allowing children to develop and exercise decision-making skills. Activities are designed to reinforce and enhance the classroom curriculum, as well as help the students to develop a larger art vocabulary. Young artists also investigate historical works of art and study various artists and cultures.

Middle School
The Middle School visual arts program is centered on the development and discovery of each student's artistic abilities within a variety of mediums. Art design principles are introduced, and design elements and principles are applied. Art history and art criticism are utilized as tools for learning and appreciating former and present day cultures within the U.S. and throughout the world. Art is used as a basis for creative thinking, problem solving, and decision-making.

Upper School
Upper School visual arts courses include visual studies, painting, drawing, ceramics, printmaking, 3-D design, photography, computer graphics, and art history, as well as Advanced Placement (AP) studio and AP history of art. Student works are entered in the National Scholastic Competition, the National Congressional Arts Competition, and the Matthews Art Fest Competition. In addition, students exhibit their works in local art galleries, as well as the Mint Museum of Art.