Garfield High School – AP Art and Design A&B

Mar 2026 · 2nd Semester

The AP Art and Design course presents an inquiry-based approach to learning about art and design. Students conduct in-depth and sustained investigation of materials, processes, and ideas with a self-selected media focus: Drawing, 2D and 3D art. This process supports students to become inquisitive and thoughtful artists and designers. The course continues for a second semester where students develop a portfolio in preparation for AP College Board submission. Students further develop their personal voice in the visual arts as they work in their chosen media or focus.  Student work is developed for a portfolio that will be submitted to the AP College Board for review and scoring. This course is recommended but not limited to students looking to apply to art colleges after high school. Students may receive CTE credit after fulfilling all Fine Arts credit requirements.  Although there are no prerequisites for the course, prior experience, learning about, and making art, supports student success. This course is eligible for Occupational Education which is equivalent to CTE credit. As an introductory college course, students need to work inside and outside the classroom and beyond scheduled periods. Homework such as a journal or sketchbook, should support the depth of learning expected of AP students. The portfolio exams contain 3 required sections: Selected works (5 works), and sustained investigation (15 digital images) to be submitted as a final, end of course summative assessment, and an artist narrative statement.