Studio Arts

Studio Art explores a variety of traditional visual mediums like drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, printmaking, and mixed media. Through hands-on creativity, students discover how to express themselves while learning the basics of color, form, line, shape, space, texture, and value. Along the way, they engage with art history and current artistic ideas, building a strong foundation that supports growth, personal expression, and skills useful in many future paths—whether in art or beyond.

Students begin their studies with a foundations course that is designed to introduce the basics of a studio art class including topics about: safety, procedures, vocabulary, principles & elements of art & design, 2D & 3D, and art history. Courses expand upon and challenge students’ understanding of specific mediums as well as the function of art and the role of an artist in contemporary society.

Studio Art students enter senior year taking advanced courses in mediums that specifically interest them. These courses set ambitious goals for students and are partially student-directed. This approach allows them to delve deeper into concepts, media, artists, and functions of their work that are of particular importance to them. Portfolio and career readiness are emphasized as are contemporary art and industry practices.

Learning Objectives

Studio Art students are held to a standard of excellence regarding their work and practices.

  • Communication is paramount,
  • students are expected to discuss their work, intentions, and choices while engaging in conversation and discourse about their peers’ work.
  • Exhibitions and public events are a focal part of the department. Contribution and participation are expected.

Required Courses

  • Intro to Visual Arts
  • Studio Foundations A & B
  • Digital Foundations A & B

Students choose two of the following courses during their 3rd and 4th year:

  • Advanced Painting
  • Advanced Drawing
  • Advanced Ceramics
  • Advanced Printmaking
  • Advanced Sculpture

Please view our Program of Studies here.

Portfolio Requirements

Prepare a collection of your best works. Take pictures in natural sunlight or proper lighting so we can view your art in its best light! You can submit your work as a link to an online portfolio, or as an attachment to an email. Your portfolio should include a selection of 5-10 examples of your best work, including photographs, sketches, drawings, paintings, and other works such as sculpture or mixed media.

Studio Clubs/Organizations

National Art Honors Society

Studio Arts Opportunities/Events

  • Regular Exhibition space around the WAA facilities Fall Coffee Shop
  • Spring Lemonade Stand
  • Art Festival
  • Outside organization Open Calls and Exhibitions

Past Recognition

2x Silver Key Award Winner – Scholastic Art And Writing Awards
https://www.artandwriting.org/awards/recognition/

Past Masterclasses

  • Visiting Artist Series Featuring 20+ artists who spoke with Students
  • Studio Visit Series – Juniors & Seniors visited Gingerly Press printmaking studio in Lawrenceville

Student Work Showcase

Westinghouse Arts Academy is a public charter arts high school serving grades 9-12, located in Wilmerding, PA.

Want to learn more, enroll or schedule a tour?