Orange High School

400 Lincoln Avenue, Orange NJ 07050

Ceramics & Fiber Arts

Ceramics Overview

Introduction to Ceramics

Course Focus: Basics of ceramic materials, hand-building, wheel-throwing, glazing, and firing techniques.

Key Topics:

Clay preparation

Hand-building techniques (coil, slab, pinch)

Wheel throwing

Glaze application

Kiln firing methods (electric, gas, raku)

Surface treatments and texture exploration

Learning Outcomes:

Ability to create functional and sculptural ceramics

Understanding of the firing process

Mastery of glaze application and surface decoration

Intermediate/Advanced Ceramics

Course Focus: Refining technical skills, exploring complex forms, and developing personal styles.

Key Topics:

Advanced throwing and hand-building techniques

Creating large-scale ceramics

Complex glazing and surface decoration

Experimentation with alternative firing methods

Learning Outcomes:

Advanced skill in wheel-throwing and hand-building

Ability to create intricate, custom forms

Development of a unique artistic voice
Fiber Arts Overview

Introduction to Fiber Arts

Course Focus: Exploration of natural and synthetic fibers, basic techniques in weaving, dyeing, and stitching.

Key Topics:

History of fiber arts

Introduction to fibers (cotton, wool, silk, synthetic)

Basic weaving techniques (plain weave, twill, and more)

Dyeing methods (natural and synthetic)

Basic stitching (embroidery, hand-sewing)

Learning Outcomes:

Understanding of various fiber types and their uses

Mastery of basic weaving, stitching, and dyeing techniques

Creation of simple fiber art pieces

Intermediate/Advanced Fiber Arts

Course Focus: Advanced techniques, exploration of fiber manipulation, and complex textile designs.

Key Topics:

Advanced weaving (complex patterns and tapestry techniques)

Surface design techniques (appliqué, felting, mixed media)

Complex dyeing (indigo, Shibori, resist-dyeing)

3D textile art (fiber sculpture, wearable art)

Learning Outcomes:

Ability to create sophisticated textile art pieces

Mastery of advanced dyeing and weaving techniques

Development of a personal style in fiber arts

Both Art Forms emphasize hands-on learning, allowing students to experiment and express their creativity. These courses are suitable for those wanting to pursue both functional and artistic pieces in ceramics and fiber arts.

Amelimeg@orange.k12.nj.us

Room 105

*You can reach me on remind https://www.remind.com/join/fiberarts2

*Send a text to 81010 Text this message @fiberarts2

All classes follow the same grading rationale of:

Tests & Projects 40% Authentic Assessment 30% Classwork 15% Homework 15%

Art Class

Phone:

Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Mrs. Guerriero

Mrs. Guerriero is a passionate educator, artist, and mentor with over 20 years of experience in the Visual and Performing Arts (VPA). She holds an M.A. in Art Education and an M.ed. in Educational Leadership, but her true love has always been bringing creativity to life—both in the classroom and beyond.

Throughout her career, Mrs. Guerriero has showcased both her own and her students’ artwork in competitions, galleries, exhibits, and shows, fostering a love for artistic expression in every space she enters. Her background in the fashion industry, working with brands like Sean John, Billabong, A. Kurtz, and Maggie London, has given her a unique perspective that she weaves into her teaching, encouraging students to think boldly and push creative boundaries.

Beyond the art room, she is deeply committed to student growth and academic success. She believes in creating inclusive, engaging learning environments where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired. With expertise in curriculum development, child and adolescent development, special education law, and alternative assessment strategies, she works to ensure all students have the tools they need to thrive. She also integrates restorative practices and innovative teaching methods to make learning more meaningful and accessible.

Mrs. Guerriero is actively involved in student life, having played a key role in OHS school plays and musicals, including Beauty and the Beast, The Great Gatsby, Little Shop of Horrors, and Grease, helping bring productions to life through visual storytelling. She is also proud to be the newly appointed JV Girls Flag Football coach and has previously coached the boys' tennis team, fostering teamwork and dedication in student-athletes.

Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, creating art, and giving back to her community. She is especially passionate about volunteering as a coach for her children’s sports teams, finding joy in supporting young athletes both on and off the field.

At the heart of it all, Mrs. Guerriero is dedicated to empowering students—academically, artistically, and personally. She believes in the power of creativity, perseverance, and mentorship to transform lives, and she is honored to be a part of her students’ journeys.