Serving Preschool Through 8th Grade in the San Francisco East Bay Since 1962

Art & Design

The Middle School Art & Design program offers students the chance to cultivate creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills through hands-on projects. Collaborative activities encourage students to share ideas, work together, and express themselves—skills that are essential across academic disciplines. By weaving art and design into the curriculum, we equip students with the tools to innovate and adapt, helping them grow into well-rounded, forward-thinking individuals.

Middle School students participate in two art and design periods each week. The curriculum rotates between 2D Art, 3D Design, and Digital Arts, with each grade level gaining hands-on experience in these mediums during the trimesters:

Trimester 6th Grade 7th Grade 8th Grade
1 Drawing & Painting 3D Design Digital Arts
2 3D Design Digital Arts Drawing & Painting
3 Digital Arts Drawing & Painting 3D Design


2D Art
In our 2D Art course, students dive into the world of drawing and painting, honing skills in shading, perspective, and color theory while also exploring mixed media and art history. Projects encourage self-expression, with subjects ranging from still life and landscapes to portraits and abstract art. As students progress, they tackle more advanced techniques and concepts, fostering an appreciation for the visual arts and building the skills to express their unique perspectives.

Digital Arts
Our Digital Arts class introduces students to the dynamic world of digital creation, blending technology with artistic expression. Students work with Adobe Photoshop, learning photography techniques like composition and lighting, and how to edit their images with layering, color correction, and special effects. The course also integrates coding through p5.js, empowering students to create interactive, digital art projects. By the end of the course, students will have a strong foundation in digital media, enabling them to produce compelling and innovative artworks.

3D Design
In 3D Design, students immerse themselves in hands-on projects that combine creativity with engineering. They design and build objects like cars and gliders using a variety of workshop tools like hammers and handsaws. The course emphasizes safety, problem-solving, and fine motor skills, allowing students to bring their imaginative designs to life. By integrating artistic vision with technical expertise, students are prepared for future endeavors in both art and engineering.