The Advanced Placement Program in Studio Art: 2-D Design is a performance-based visual exam. Each student develops and submits a portfolio that serves as a direct demonstration of achievement. The term "2-D Design" is used very broadly; a wide range of work can fit into this portfolio. The unifying idea for the portfolio is that the student focuses on making decisions about how to use the principles and elements of art to create works of art that convey meaning. In some cases, the "meaning" of the work may involve messages on a literal level (for example, graphic design, product design). However, "meaning" is just as likely to take the form of abstract or purely visual coherence. What's critical is that sense of deliberate manipulation of the visual tools represented by the elements and principles. The work may be highly technological, or it may be created with the most simple means. Any two-dimensional medium may be used for this portfolio.
The Breadth Section
The Breadth section shows the range of experimentation and experience in drawing. It is presented as 12 images, each of which shows a different work. In addition to its quality, each work is scored on the degree to which it actually shows a variety of approaches to drawing.
Click on the images below to see past student breadth sections.
Courtney Leopold
Bethany Summers
Marnisa Slay
Kirstin Erich
Various Artists
The Concentration Section
The Concentration section shows the student's in-depth exploration of a particular design concept. It is presented as 12 images, some of which may be details of works. The stress is on a coherent idea and development of the work, in addition to the artistic success of the work.
Click on the images below to see the entire student concentration.