The Visual Arts Standards of Learning identify the essential knowledge and skills required in the visual arts curriculum for each grade level or course in Virginia’s standards. The standards outline the minimum criteria for a sequential course of study within a comprehensive visual arts education program. The standards are designed to be cumulative, progressing in complexity by grade level from elementary through the sequence of high school courses.
The curriculum for art and design aims to ensure that all students
-produce creative work, exploring their ideas and recording their experiences
-become proficient in drawing, painting, sculpture and other art, craft and design techniques
-evaluate and analyze creative works using the language of art, craft and design
-know about great artists, craft makers and designers, and understand the historical and cultural development of their art forms.
Art History and Cultural Context
By investigating works of art from different times and places, students will develop an understanding that art and culture shape and reflect each other. Through the study of works of art and the people who created them, students will understand the role of visual arts in communicating diverse cultural beliefs and ideas.
Exhibiting Student Art
Students at all grade levels should have opportunities to exhibit their works of art throughout the school year in different contexts and venues and for various purposes.
