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SupportClass 12 Fine Arts Syllabus 2026-27: CBSE/NCERT PDF
Dive into the Class 12 Fine Arts Syllabus 2026-27! Download the PDF for a detailed look at theory, practicals, and creative project ideas to inspire you.
Last Updated on 10 Jul 2026
The CBSE Class 12th Fine Arts syllabus 2026-27 is designed to enhance creativity, imagination, and appreciation of Indian art. It builds on the foundation laid in Class 11 and prepares students for higher studies in visual arts, design, and related fields.
Students can choose from four courses – Painting (049), Graphics (050), Sculpture (051), or Applied Art – Commercial Art (052).
The syllabus balances theory and practical learning, with emphasis on History of Indian Art and portfolio-based practice. Below, we have covered the complete Class 12 Fine Arts syllabus, exam pattern, objectives, preparation tips, projects, and a free PDF download.
Table of Contents
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Class 12 Fine Arts Syllabus 2026-27: Overview
CBSE offers Fine Arts at the senior secondary level with four optional courses. Students must choose any one of the following:
- Painting (Code 049)
- Graphics (Code 050)
- Sculpture (Code 051)
- Applied Art – Commercial Art (Code 052)
| Part | Details | Marks |
| Theory | History of Indian Art (common for all four courses) | 30 |
| Practical | Varies as per chosen course (Painting/Graphics/Sculpture/Applied Art) | 70 |
| Total | 100 Marks | |
| Exam Duration | Theory – 2 Hours Practical – 6 Hours (3+3 with 1-hour break) |
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Download Class 12 Fine Arts Syllabus PDF
For easy reference, here is the official CBSE Class 12 Fine Arts Syllabus PDF 2026-27.
Class 12th Fine Arts Syllabus 2026-27 (Theory)
Whether you choose painting, graphics, sculpture or applied art, the class XII fine arts syllabus of theory part is same for all:
Time: 2 Hours
| Unit | Topics Covered | Marks |
| Unit 1 | The Rajasthani School of Miniature Painting • Origins and development • Main features • Selected paintings: Maru-Ragini, Raja Aniruddha Singh Hara, Chaugan Players, Krishna on Swing, Radha (Bani-Thani), Bharat Meets Rama at Chitrakuta |
10 |
| Unit 2 | The Pahari School of Miniature Painting • Origins and development • Main features • Selected paintings: Krishna with Gopis, Nand, Yashoda and Krishna with Kinsmen going to Vrindavana, Cosmic Dance of Shiva (Nandikeshvara), Krishna with Gopis |
10 |
| Unit 3 | The Mughal and Deccan Schools of Miniature Painting • Origins and development • Main features • Selected paintings: Jahangir holding the picture of Abdur Rahim Khan-i-Khana, Falcon on a Bird-Rest, Kabir and Raidas, Marriage procession of Dara Shikoh • Deccan School: Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya and Amir Khusro, Chand Bibi Playing Polo |
10 |
| Total | 30 |
More Important Resources for CBSE Exam:
| Class 11th Hornbill Syllabus | CBSE Class 11th Commerce Subjects |
| CBSE Full Form | All about CBSE Class 11th |
| Class 11th Syllabus | Class 12th Syllabus |
| Class 11th Commerce Books | CBSE Board: All details |
Class 12th Fine Arts Syllabus 2026-27 (Practical)
The practical syllabus of fine arts in class 12th is different for all categories:
1. Painting Practical – 70 Marks
Time: 6 Hours (3+3 with 1-hour break)
| Unit | Content | Marks |
| 1. Nature and Object Study (Observation Based) | • Study of objects, plants, and geometric forms with pencil/colours showing light and shade. | 25 |
| 2. Painting Composition (Imagination Based) | • Drawing & colouring based on daily life, human figures, festivals, and surroundings. | 25 |
| 3. Portfolio Assessment | • Record of year’s performance (sketch to finished work). • Five selected works (studies + compositions).- At least one work inspired by Indian Folk Art. |
20 |
| Total | 70 |
2. Graphics Practical – 70 Marks
Time: 6 Hours (3+3 with 1-hour break)
| Part | Content | Marks |
| 1. Relief Printing (Linocut/Woodcut/Paper-cardboard) | • Basics of printmaking methods and use of tools. • Understanding inks, solvents & registration methods. • Execution of a creative composition in relief printing. |
50 |
| 2. Portfolio Assessment | • Record of year’s work (sketch to final print). • At least three selected prints from the year’s work. • Two prints based on Indian Folk Art. |
20 |
| Total | 70 |
3. Sculpture Practical – 70 Marks
Time: 6 Hours (3+3 with 1-hour break)
| Part | Content | Marks |
| 1. Modelling in Relief (Clay/Plaster of Paris) | • Relief work inspired by nature, folk art, or daily life. • Use of geometric and natural forms in composition. |
25 |
| 2. Modelling in Round (Clay/Plaster of Paris) | • Three-dimensional sculptures of simplified human figures, animals, or objects. • Techniques like coiling, slab, or direct carving. |
25 |
| 3. Portfolio Assessment | • Record of year’s performance (sketch → final sculpture). • Four selected works (Relief + Round). • At least one work inspired by Indian Folk Art. |
20 |
| Total | 70 |
4. Applied Art Practical – 70 Marks
Time: 6 Hours (3+3 with 1-hour break)
| Part | Content | Marks |
| 1. Drawing | • Still life and nature study. • Medium: pencil, monochrome, watercolour, or ink. |
25 |
| 2. Lettering & Layout | • Study of Roman and Devanagari scripts. • Designing simple layouts such as posters, book covers, or advertisements. |
25 |
| 3. Portfolio Assessment | • Record of year’s performance (sketch to final artwork). • Four selected drawings. • Two works in chosen applied art. • At least one work inspired by Indian Folk Art. |
20 |
| Total | 70 |
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Class XII Fine Arts Syllabus: Exam Pattern & Evaluation Scheme
1. Theory Exam
- Maximum Marks: 30
- Duration: 2 Hours
- Content: History of Indian Art (common for all four courses).
- Units Covered:
- The Rajasthani School of Miniature Painting
- The Pahari School of Miniature Painting
- The Mughal and Deccan Schools of Miniature Painting
2. Practical Exam
- Maximum Marks: 70
- Duration: 6 Hours (3+3 with 1-hour break).
- Components by Course:
- Painting: Nature & Object Study (25), Composition (25), Portfolio (20)
- Graphics: Relief Printing (50), Portfolio (20)
- Sculpture: Modelling in Relief (25), Modelling in Round (25), Portfolio (20)
- Applied Art: Drawing (25), Lettering & Layout (25), Portfolio (20)
3. Portfolio Assessment (20 Marks – Common for All Courses)
- Record of the year’s performance (sketches → final works).
- Selected studies and compositions.
- At least one work based on Indian Folk Art.
- Criteria for marking:
- Creativity & Originality: 6 marks
- Technical Skill: 6 marks
- Presentation & Aesthetic Quality: 4 marks
- Folk Art / Personal Style: 4 marks
Explore the updated CBSE Class 12 syllabus for all subjects here:
Prescribed Books for CBSE Class 12 Fine Arts Syllabus 2026-27
| Course | Prescribed Books |
| Painting (049) | • An Introduction to Indian Art: Part II (NCERT) • Creative Art Manual: Painting (as per CBSE guidelines) |
| Graphics (050) | • An Introduction to Indian Art: Part II (NCERT) • Creative Art Manual: Graphics |
| Sculpture (051) | • An Introduction to Indian Art: Part II (NCERT) • Creative Art Manual: Sculpture |
| Applied Art – Commercial Art (052) | • An Introduction to Indian Art: Part II (NCERT) • Creative Art Manual: Applied Art |
Objectives of Class 12 Fine Arts Syllabus 2026-27
The Fine Arts syllabus for Class 12 is designed to refine artistic skills, promote creativity, and deepen understanding of India’s cultural heritage. The main objectives are:
- Enhance Creativity and Expression: Encourage students to explore ideas, experiment with forms, and express themselves artistically.
- Strengthen Observation and Imagination: Train learners to notice details in nature, objects, and life situations, and translate them into art.
- Cultural Awareness: Develop respect for India’s rich traditions of painting, sculpture, architecture, and folk art.
- Technical Skill Development: Provide hands-on training in Painting, Graphics, Sculpture, or Applied Art to build confidence and proficiency.
- Aesthetic Sensibility: Cultivate the ability to appreciate beauty, balance, and harmony in artworks.
- Critical & Analytical Thinking: Enable students to study artworks historically, socially, and culturally.
- Portfolio Building: Prepare a creative collection of works that reflects individual style and originality.
Tips to Prepare for Class 12 Fine Arts Syllabus 2026-27
1. Read NCERT Theory Carefully
Focus on An Introduction to Indian Art – Part II. Learn features, schools of miniature painting, and key artworks with dates and artists.
2. Practice Daily for Practicals
Dedicate at least 1–2 hours daily for sketching, painting, or sculpting. Consistency is key to improving technique and creativity.
3. Keep a Well-Maintained Portfolio
Organize works chronologically – sketches, studies, final pieces. Include at least one artwork inspired by Indian Folk Art.
4. Use Real-Life Inspirations
Observe nature, objects, people, and festivals to create authentic compositions. This makes your work unique and relatable.
5. Experiment with Mediums
Try pencil, watercolour, ink, acrylics, clay, or printmaking tools depending on your chosen course. It adds versatility to your portfolio.
6. Prepare Notes for Theory Revision
Make short notes with bullet points, flowcharts, or diagrams for each art school. These are handy during last-minute study.
7. Visit Art Exhibitions & Museums
Exposure to original artworks and sculptures enhances understanding and appreciation of techniques and history.
8. Revise Regularly
Revise both practical techniques and theory topics weekly to avoid last-minute stress.
Suggested Project Work & Portfolio Preparation for Class 12 Fine Arts
Portfolio and project work are an essential part of Fine Arts practical evaluation. They highlight a student’s creativity, consistency, and understanding of art.
Components of Portfolio
- Record of Progress: From initial sketches to completed artworks.
- Nature & Object Studies: Still life drawings, observation-based works.
- Compositions: Imagination-based paintings, sculptures, or prints.
- Folk Art Integration: At least one work inspired by Indian Folk Art (Warli, Madhubani, Pattachitra, Gond, etc.).
- Original Work: An artwork showing the student’s personal style.
Suggested Project Work Ideas
- Create a series of paintings or prints based on Indian festivals or daily life.
- Document local folk art traditions and present them visually.
- Develop a sculpture inspired by Indian mythology.
- Make advertising posters/book cover layouts (for Applied Art).
- Prepare a visual diary/sketchbook with observations of nature, objects, and people.
- Create artworks that blend modern themes with traditional styles.
Evaluation Criteria (20 Marks)
- Creativity & Originality: 6 marks
- Technical Skill & Use of Medium: 6 marks
- Presentation & Aesthetic Quality: 4 marks
- Folk Art/Personal Style Integration: 4 marks
Check the latest CBSE Class 11 syllabus for all subjects below:
FAQs on Class 12 Fine Arts Syllabus
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