This document discusses how visual journals and sketchbooks are used in art classes to explore media, processes, and content. Students complete assignments in their journals over the course of a semester to demonstrate their understanding of lessons and encourage personal expression. Journals are also used as a resource for inspiration and studies to inform further art projects. The program aims to connect students to the art department, school, and community through service projects displayed in the Norris Gallery.

1. ArtVentures
Connecting School and
Community through the
Visual Arts

2. Visual Journals
• Using journals as sourcebooks to explore
media, process and content

3. Class time provided for journal
explorations

4. Journal variations
* Create a personal cover
* Bind variety of papers and surfaces

5. Use binder for flexibility in placement
and storage

6. More variations – adding on-location studies and
binding photos into a working resource file

7. Mapping Myself
Student Sketchbook Project

8. Assignment incorporated elements covered in the introductory
2D Media course – book worked on during semester

9. Sketchbook demonstrated student’s understanding of
lessons presented and encouraged personal expression

10. Each student ‘s book reflected their personality,
approach to the assignment and their personal style

11. Assignment was used as part of the semester assessment
portfolio – students selected page to share with class

12. Visual Journal used as resource file for
intermediate and advanced projects

13. Developing theme in art work – observations of daily life
and relationships from exaggerated perspective

14. Study of a subject showing
exploration of space and
value

15. Experimental watercolor studies form basis of final
watercolor interpretation portrait assignment

16. Working with specific color
scheme and shapes to break
up the picture plane

17. Portrait variations based on preliminary studies
in sourcebooks and journals

20. Journal reflections and media experiments used for
resources and inspiration for mixed media work

21. Media experiments inspired NAHS members to create
personalized nametags for artists in Norris Gallery shows

22. Student shows also have exhibit time
in Norris Gallery schedule

23. Art Alumni students showcased in Norris Shows

24. Art students and NAHS members – connecting to fine arts
department, school and community through service projects

26. NAHS

27. character - academics - service