Introductory Courses

Note that two-credit module courses meet for one half of the semester. Students may satisfy the arts requirement by taking two modules in different areas. They need not be taken in the same semester. See also modular courses offered in Art History, Dance, Music, and Theater.

Photography Basic photographic equipment, darkroom techniques, and image making are introduced. Independent work in the darkroom is conducted and evaluated through lectures, demonstrations, discussions, and critiques. The visual histo ry of photography is studied through a series of media presentations. Students experiment with a variety of images and ideas before pursuing a specific direction. Each student presents a portfolio of selected prints at the conclusion of the semester. Studio fee. Students supply their own cameras, film, printing paper, and related supplies.

Drawing and Painting from Nature This course is designed for beginning students. It introduces the fundamentals of drawing and painting, and encourages the use of new media as tools of compositional exploration and experimentation. Working from organic and inorganic forms, textures, structures, and patterns, students explore and develop a variety of techniques and methods for meeting their individual artistic goals.

Introduction to Ceramics Students in this course will learn the fundamentals of clay forming techniques as they produce bowls, mugs, vases, and lidded jars among other forms. The class will learn both hand building and wheel throwing skills. A variety of glazing methods will be introduced. Structural integrity, function, and aesthetic issues will be considered equally. The class will be introduced to historical and contemporary trends and innovations in ceramics. Students will keep a sketchbook and participate in a field trip.

The Art of Assemblage This module surveys 20th-century assemblage art and includes a series of studio sessions designed to extend this history and provide a range of firsthand creative experiences. Each student writes a research paper on an assemblage artist and presents at least one research report on a specific approach or technique. A series of 2-D and 3-D studio exercises prepares students to complete three projects. This course satisfies one half of the arts requirement.

Drawing and Design This module is an exploration of the design considerations which go into the creation of drawings. Studio projects will explore a variety of approaches and we will examine the many design possibilities artists have worked with in their drawings. In addition to a final portfolio of work, each student will complete a formal analytical paper which evaluates one of the completed projects. This course satisfies one half of the arts requirement.

Relief Printmaking Relief printing, in black-and-white and color, is explored through work with found objects, cardboard prints, linocuts, woodcuts, relief etchings, photo relief prints and other block printing media. Basic design issues are discussed and evaluated through a series of open-ended projects. Demonstrations, critiques, and presentations supplement studio work. Studio fee.

Video Production, Cinematically Speaking This entry-level course is designed for those who have a serious interest in video and/or film production. No prior video experience is required. Students will receive instruction in the use of cameras, sound, lighting, and editing. Moreover, the course is designed to introduce the students to aspects of technique and style that contribute to, or even determine, meaning in uniquely cinematic ways. A series of short video exercises will give the student working knowledge of specific elements of film/video structure. A longer video, of eight minutes or more, will be expected by semester’s end, and may be done either individually or in small groups. During the course of the semester, production work will be supplemented by lecture on pertinent areas of film/ video history, and sections of important films will be closely analyzed for fine points of filmic expression.

Graphic Design This introductory studio course explores the relationship of words and images as the foundation of applied visual communication and design. Students may work with traditional two-dimensional studio media, but many of the assignments will also involve the use of the computer to produce visual statements. Digital programs, such as Adobe Photoshop, will be introduced as studio tools. Projects may include the design of letterform compositions, text pages, logos, broadsides, posters and small books. The history of graphic design will be studied through a series of visual presentations. Studio fee. No prerequisite.

Introduction to Sculpture Studio This course offers both a survey of traditional and contemporary sculpture concepts and techniques, as well as hands-on studio experience. Each student will write three short research papers (3-4 pages) on the work of one 3-D artist and/or on the evolution of a sculpture/3-D technique or process. This course will stress safe practices in the use tools and equipment, prior to the development and completion of three small projects exploring primary materials (clay/ plaster, wood, and metal).