Visual Arts

Art at Catherine McAuley High School can be taken for all four years.  Art 1 is the basic foundations course. Within the structured program of Art 1, art production, art history, art criticism and art appreciation are taught with the goal of producing thoughtful works, knowledge of historical context and some articulate critical discussion.  Art 1 units include drawing, design, pottery, calligraphy, printmaking, sculpture, watercolor and portraiture.  In Art 2, with the beginning of portfolio development, fewer and more finished projects are pursued.  Typical units include pen and ink, color drawing, decorative design, fiber arts, more complex printmaking and sculpture.  In Art 3 Studio and Art 4 Studio, more independent and individualized development occurs.  Keeping in mind what is needed for a well rounded portfolio, variety of material, technique and approach is encouraged.  Many young women who have been through the McAuley Art program have been accepted at the most prestigious art colleges and universities. As a member of Maine Art Education Association, McAuley participates in the March Youth Art Month Show at the Portland Museum of Art and with the Haystack Craft Weekend in May.  Our students also proudly display their work in the Greater Portland community.