AP Drawing Summer Projects 2017
Welcome to AP Drawing! In preparation for developing a strong AP portfolio, you will
create 3 artworks over the summer. These pieces are due the first day of school, September 5th.
The dimensions for your work should be no smaller than 9X12”. You may see me in room 48 or
email [email protected] before the end of the school year if you need materials or
have any questions.
These pieces will be included in the “Range of Approaches” section of your AP portfolio. The
focus of this section is variety. Experiment! Explore a range of media, approaches and subject
matter. Artwork is assessed based on quality, craftsmanship, observation, and risk- taking/
creativity. These pieces are open medium (material of choice)- or try combining mixed media
(multiple materials)!
In addition to the 3 artworks, you are encouraged to keep a sketchbook: doodle, write, collage,
paint, etc. in it regularly- this will be a great resource for ideas during the school year.
Select 3 from the following topics for Summer Projects (any medium):
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Create a self-portrait, (or overlap several different portraits), that expresses a specific
mood/emotion. Ideas/Examples: anger/rage, melancholy/loneliness, happiness/joy,
etc… Enhance the psychological atmosphere through the manipulation of light values
and color. Try distorting and emphasizing certain facial features for and unusual view.
Use different views such as: worm’s eye or bird’s eye views.
“Café Drawing”: Go to a place (any local hangout) where you can sit and sketch for a
long period of time. In your drawing, convey the essence of this place (café, local eatery,
bookstore, mall, local pool, sitting on a train, etc...) by drawing people and places you
see.
Still life arrangement of 3 or more reflective objects. Your goal is to convey convincing
representation. Use full value and contrast for drama. Consider doing this as a selfportrait – draw yourself distorted in a shiny object.
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Create a drawing or painting of an unusual interior. Idea/Examples: looking inside a
closet, cabinet, refrigerator, inside your car, fish tank…Get creative!
 A close up of a complex/ mechanical object from and unusual angle with strong
light/shadow.
 Expressive landscape – this can be near your home, a place you visit on vacation or one
you find on a drive. Consider how you will create a sense of mood and atmosphere.
 Action portrait/figure drawing – have a friend or family member pose for you doing
some sort of movement (jumping rope, riding a bike, walking down stairs etc.). Add
interest by using an unusual or surreal environment.
 Realistic to Abstract- develop a single composition or a series of small compositions that
transition from a realistic, observational subject to an abstract (non-representational)
design.
Visit the College Board website for details about the requirements of the AP
Drawing Portfolio: https://apstudent.collegeboard.org/apcourse/ap-studio-art-drawing