ARTS - Art - Studio

Introductory course investigating the principles and elements of visual design. Unity, emphasis, balance, scale, line, form, texture, rhythm and color are explored through two-dimensional studio problems.

Theory and practice in a variety of graphic media. Conte, ink, pencil, and charcoal used in studio problems to acquaint beginning student with full range of drawing possibilities.

First course in the Drawing and Painting program which is structured to prepare students for lives as professional artists. The course expands on material included in the foundation courses. Students will explore more technical, aesthetic and conceptual approaches in both drawing and painting. Research papers are required.

The course introduces students to the core applications used in creating multimedia content. The applications range from Microsoft applications to the Adobe suite of programs for video and graphics production. Alternative software will also be explored as the course will attempt to remain current with market and industry standards for personal and business use.

A practical introduction to the theory and application of 35 mm camera controls. Emphasis will be placed on the technical skills required to create imagery on 35mm film. Instructional methods will include lectures, field experience and laboratory work. No course prerequisites, but students must have a 35mm camera. Students must complete ARTS 150 AND ARTS 155 to enroll in any 300-level courses in Photography.

A practical introduction to the theory and application of 35 mm camera controls and black and white darkroom techniques. An emphasis will be placed on the technical skills required to visually express oneself through the photographic medium. Lectures, darkroom laboratory, and field experience. Students must have a 35mm camera.

A practical introduction to the aesthetic and technical theories and techniques of DSLR camera controls and imaging software. An emphasis will be placed on the technical skills required to visually express oneself through the digital photographic medium. The course will consist of lectures, demonstrations, lab time, field experience and oral critiques. A DSLR with manual setting is required.

Photographic Explorations is an introduction to the workings of light and cameras, interpretation and perception, philosophical and psychological experience to explore image culture. In addition to learning techniques for producing light- and lens-based images, students will become acquainted with historical and contemporary uses of these techniques. Through a combination of classroom talks and hands-on projects, students will explore the principles of photography. The course is designed to serve students with no prior background in photography and is not intended for visual arts or photography majors. A camera that can take electronic still images is required (this can range from a digital SLR to camera phone).

A continuation of ARTS 105 Foundations in Drawing with further emphasis on using learned skill sets to create visual content. Exploration of contemporary uses of drawing. Introduction to color.

Intensive drawing course related to the human figure. The figure is explored in various mediums and in both realism and abstraction. Research papers and readings out of the textbook are required.

Students expand on theories explored in Drawing and Painting I. Assignments concentrate on the introduction of more personally significant content into the students' work. Thematic series are introduced as a way of exploring complex concepts. While there will be some flexibility between deciding whether to use drawing or painting, some assignments will require both. Research papers are required.

The course is designed to introduce to the student the basic principles of designing web pages for the World Wide Web. Mixing traditional design concepts with web-based tools, students will learn how to code pages for the web across platforms. Students will also gain practice in the use of HTML, Java and CGI/Perl scripting.

This Foundations of Time-­Based Media course is designed to help students develop their aesthetic and technical understandings of time as a creative tool and medium. Fundamental principles of time including duration, sequencing and movement will be established through hands-on creative projects and exercises. Screenings of historical and contemporary examples will also be an informative aspect of the learning process. Development of effective art criticism skills will allow for creative group interactions and the defining of one’s personal aesthetic vision.

An introductory-level studio art course for students interested in exploring time-based mediums including video and sound in a fine arts context. Students will produce projects that stress the understanding of technical and aesthetic foundations of time-based media. The development of content through analytical thinking and conceptual explorations will be a foundation to all projects. Works of contemporary and historical video and film artists are viewed and discussed.

A studio production course that explores a variety of digital tools for art production. The course offers a broad overview of contemporary digital technologies using avant-garde art movements of the 20th century as a framework to explore digital tools. The course covers a variety of software applications used in contemporary artistic practices and may include image manipulation, digital painting, sound art, video art, and web design.

An introduction to the various techniques of linocuts. Students learn traditional techniques as well as monoprints, mixed media experimentation and reduction prints. The development of individual expression is stressed.

An introduction to monotypes and collagraphs. Students are directed to experiment with a wide range of approaches to the two techniques.

An introduction to theory and application of contemporary intaglio printmaking utilizing etching, monoprinting, and digital imaging. Contemporary intaglio approaches utilize less toxic processes and techniques that have been developed recently. Emphasis is placed on the technical skills required to visually communicate utilizing the printmaking medium.

An introductory course that explores basic design considerations, materials, and techniques relating to three-dimensional expression. Classroom discussion and studio projects stress an individual interpretive approach to concept development. Slide lectures and assigned reading expose students to a contemporary perspective of 3-D expression both past and present.

A beginning course in methods and materials appropriate for sculptural expression of the human form. Clay, plaster, mold making, and casting techniques are covered. Technical and conceptual development of form is stressed. Theory and practice of the human form in art is introduced through lecture and research requirements.

An exploration of more advanced techniques of exposure, development and printing of black and white film and print materials, with special emphasis on tonal control. Increased emphasis is also placed on aspects of composition, perception, content and presentation in black and white photography. Students must have a 35mm camera.

Explores aesthetic and technical knowledge necessary to understand the art of color photography including color perception, materials and processes, and aesthetics of color. Emphasis is placed primarily on aspects of color theory, the use of color in photographic and digital image creation, the implementation of color workflow and color management systems and color printing. Throughout the semester, issues of form, composition and light will be discussed in the context of students’ own production.

Introduction and orientation to concepts and skills necessary for visual communication. Fundamentals of language and principles of graphic design structure with an emphasis on media for development of ideas and imagery. Introduction to fundamentals and language of typography.

Continued exploration of formal creation and manipulation with an emphasis of systems. Emphasis on the visualization of abstract ideas using text, image and form as well as hierarchy of information. Introduction of role of research and audience in the creation of design solutions.

The elements and principles of 3-D design are explored through introduction to basic techniques for the construction of ceramic objects without the use of the potters wheel. Projects in terra cotta clay explore the relationship of form and surface unique to the ceramic medium.

The rudiments of wheel forming pottery lead to the creation of bowls, vases, jars, and teapots in ceramics. Glazing and firing techniques for stoneware clay are covered.

An introduction to editorial illustration. The class will explore technical, aesthetic and conceptual principles, as well as research and historical examples. Projects include thumbnail sketches, semi-comps, and refined drawings for final presentation on paper.

A broad introduction to fundamental principles of motion utilizing traditional and digital 2D animation techniques. Topics explored include basic filmmaking terms and editing, a variety of traditional animation methods including flip books, line drawn, rotoscope, cutout, and collage animation as well as history of the medium.

Selected studio media and techniques.

Continued concentration on drawing the figure with more emphasis on use of color medium. Research papers will deal with contemporary and traditional artists whose work dealt with the figure.

Students begin to learn professional practices in application of their chosen medium, construction of support structures, creation of artwork reflecting their interpretation of their roles in society and preparation of their artwork for exhibitions. Students will also research, write and discuss historical and contemporary theories and trends in art. Students decide whether to work in drawing or painting or both.

Course is designed to introduce students to the elements of live performance within a multimedia environment. Elements of live artistic performance (such as music, theatre, poetry, etc.) will be combined with computer-mediated elements to achieve a new style of interactive performance.

A studio-based course exploring the broad field of Installation Art as a means of visual expression. A range of materials and methods will be used to create installations that transform the viewer’s experience of space. Lectures,demonstrations, and readings introduce students to Installation Art.

An intermediate level studio course designed to further develop conceptual and technical skills as related to experimental video making. The course builds upon Introduction to Experimental Video Art with an emphasis on defining and using self-imposed limitations and parameters to aid in the accelerated execution and completion of projects. Students will have the opportunity to collaborate in cross-discipline projects and explore alternative methods of screening and distributing finished projects.

Students will explore techniques and theories of experimental narrative structure as a counter argument to the dominant and established Hollywood system. Students will gain a deeper understanding of processes and thematic structure that can help advance a narrative direction in their experimental work. Through a series of assignments and projects, students will explore techniques that bridge experimental and the traditional narrative experience. Screenings and readings will reinforce the course work.

An upper-level studio art course that introduces concepts and techniques of special effects to the experimental video making process. Hands-on assignments will cover practical effects in front of the camera and digital post-production effects including advanced compositing of video elements. Emphasis will be placed on obtaining professional results with minimal resources.

A studio production course that offers the opportunity to investigate web art production methods with particular attention to interactivity, navigation, sequence and audience participation. Emphasizes the conceptual and creative potential of the web and the effects of virtual interactivity on the user.

A course designed for students with a strong interest and background in composition, multimedia, audio and MIDI. A project-oriented course focusing on audio design, analysis, and integration as it applies to multimedia authoring, motion video, and web content creation.

An introduction to various techniques and forms of artist books. Students learn traditional binding as well as contemporary approaches for artist books

This course offers an opportunity to investigate both traditional and innovative approaches to object making. Materials and processes may include hot and cold casting, welding, papermaking, and hand formed cement, among others. Cross-media explorations are encouraged. Technical exploration, craftsmanship, and underlying intent is scrutinized and fostered through class critique, peer review, and required research.

Continuation of ARTS 241 - Figure Modeling; increased emphasis on technique and expressive content.

Students will study the working methods of early pioneers of photography, as well as examine present-day software development that fabricates and alters these processes. Historical working methods and contemporary mimicking approaches will be discussed in lectures, examined through readings and will be put into practice through hands-on experience with the materials. Students will expand their photographic vision through the use of experimental photographic processes as well as broaden their knowledge of the history of photography as it has led to new creative processes in combination with digital technology.

An introduction to the use of artificial lighting in Photographic Illustration. This is a technical class where emphasis will be placed on the use and control of studio lighting equipment. It is accomplished by lecture, demonstration, practical experience and critique.

Theoretical and practical introduction to electronic imaging as a creative medium. Understanding of the principals, methods, techniques and vocabulary of the most widely used digital imaging processes with an emphasis on personal expression. Topics explored will include photographic manipulation, collage, fabrication and experimental media as forms of visual expression. Lectures, laboratory work and individual and collaborative projects. Students with Macintosh imaging experience may enroll without the prerequisite with permission of the instructor.

Introduction to the process of sequencing and organizing images and information across multiple platforms. Provides students with an understanding of tools and technologies used in the creation, reproduction, and distribution of visual messages including books, interfaces, and time based work.

Emphasis is placed on conceptual development, symbolic language, and the design of systems across different media. Problem definition and content interpretation is focused on as is the role of the audience in design. Professional practices are introduced including collaboration in the creation of design solutions.

Principles of typographic composition, structure and hierarchy. Terminology, typographic history, technical issues related to typography. Typography as a medium of visual communication. Student exercises focus on the relationship between visual and verbal language and technical details of typographic specification and computer layout. Advanced placement review; or permission of instructor.

Exploration of design using text type and typographic technology. Students investigate narrative and expressive use of typographic form and format/informational organization problems.

Investigates the intermediate studio problems in the ceramics process. Hand-Building or wheel forming procedures are utilized to explore a variety of experimental approaches to the ceramic form, with a continued emphasis on the search for appropriate surface treatments and firing techniques.

Exploration of visual narrative structure employed in sequential art such as comics, storyboard art, and graphic novels through interpretive exercises and history of the medium. Students will gain experience ion visual editing, character and story development, and sequential drawing (both with traditional media and digital drawing tablets and software).

An intermediate studio concentration on digital line drawn and cel animation, including motion graphics and compositing. Emphasis on story development, character realization, the lip-synch process, multi-layer animation, and title design will be explored through short animation exercises.

An intermediate-level studio course, which builds on Intermediate 2D Animation and Intermediate Illustration, with a concentration on modeling, lighting and some animation. In addition to exploration of 3D modeling and animation, the history of traditional 3D animation is investigated to further understand 3D space and design.

Selected studio media and techniques.

The course allows the student to receive credit for introductory internship experiences, generally on-campus, related to some aspect of their field of study. Enrollment is to be arranged with an appropriate instructor, by permission only.

Formal and technical preparation for senior exhibits. Career development includes a writing component to aid the student in developing a resume, cover letter and artist's statement.

Students continue to expand on the topics covered in Drawing and Painting III while fine-tuning technical and intellectual processes in clarifying their visual language. Students will learn processes in documenting and preparing artwork for graduate schools and exhibitions. Students will also continue to research, write and discuss historical and contemporary theories in art while researching issues related to their preparation as they begin their lives as professional artists. These concepts are expanded upon in Directed Study: Drawing and Painting

An advanced studio art course where students continue the development of their own personal artistic voice through a complex project or series of integrated projects. New video production and post-production techniques will be explored as a class and independently. Development of skill sets required for an independent video artist will be emphasized.

Allows students time to expand upon the knowledge learned in Art and Interactivity for the Web. Independent projects will be produced to solidify knowledge of interactive art, web development and multimedia production.

An advanced course pursuing the refinement and execution of artistic video projects. Further focus on the development of theory and context behind individual student projects will be stressed through discussion and writing. Development of professional practices, including artist statements and demo reels will be required.

An advanced sculpture course that allows students to define and develop a personal body of work representing a serious exploration in their chosen mediums. Emphasis is placed on the continued development of technical craft and the refinement of thematic concerns. Appropriate information pertaining to theory and practice is provided. Professional practices including portfolio preparation, resumes, and artist statements are discussed.

Personal exploration in image development. Refinement of individual conceptual concerns and development of the professional portfolio. Issues will include professional practice, critical analysis and hybrid media. Students explore theoretical and critical concepts through relevant and interrelated readings, lectures, discussions, presentations along with individual and group critiques.

Emphasis is placed on conceptual development, symbolic language, and the design of systems across different media. Problem definition and content interpretation is focused on as is the role of the audience in design. Professional practices are introduced including collaboration in the creation of design solutions.

Advanced problem solving in independent and investigative concepts. Exploration of actual, theoretical and conceptual concerns of visual communication. Professional practices and portfolio preparation are addressed, explored.

Typographic theory exploring traditional and nontraditional forms, both historical and contemporary typographic achievements. Analysis of expressive characteristics and experimental uses of letter forms and text.

Comprehensive investigation and research into topics of production and practice in design. Content directed in three primary areas: pre-press preparation and materials, legal affairs, and the professional studio. Issues to be addressed include electronic file management, paper specification, supplier relationships, copyright and plagiarism, business contracts, ethics, studio ownership, management and record keeping. Requires compilation of individual journal and written research/analysis of specific course topic.

Handbuilding or wheel forming procedures are utilized to explore a variety of sculptural approaches to the ceramic form with a continued emphasis on the search for appropriate surface treatments and firing techniques. Students are guided toward the identification and expression of personal ideas in the medium.

An upper level studio course under the Animation/Illustration sequence, which follows Intermediate 2-D Animation and Intermediate Illustration. Students will be encouraged as artists to produce a mature body of work through readings, technical exercises, oral and written presentations, and independent research. Work produced in this class may or may not carry over to the Animation/Illustration Capstone (ARTS 489).

An advanced class where students work individually or in teams on a semester- long animation or series of illustrations. In addition to the main project, the class will include readings, discussions and animation screenings. The course will also discuss resume and career preparation, portfolio and demo reel creation, graduate school application, and exhibiting work in a professional manner.

This course is designed for students to become familiar with the instructing process. The student will assist the instructor of an individual studio or art history course in the classroom throughout the semester. Course work includes attendance of all scheduled classes for the course, assisting students during lab or study sessions as well as taking an active role in classroom critiques, discussions and studio maintenance. Permission of the instructor of the accompanying course is required.

Workshops offered in specialized areas, such as ceramics or painting, primarily during the summer to give students an opportunity for intensive study in one aspect of a larger field.

Directed studio work in all media. Student meets with designated faculty member on a regular basis throughout the semester. Sound background in area of investigation required. Student must file acceptable plan for proposed project, and may only enroll with instructor's permission.

Independent studio work in all media. Sound background in area of investigation required. Student must file acceptable plan or proposed project, and may only enroll with instructor's permission.

The course allows the student to receive credit for professional experiences related to some aspect of their field of study. Enrollment is to be arranged with an appropriate instructor, by permission only.

Students work with a professional artist or designer, which would include a Visual Arts and New Media faculty member, in a studio and/or office with on-going research projects. Students gain valuable perspective into the work of a professional artist or designer along with insights into the professions. Open to Visual Arts and New Media studio majors only and students may only enroll with instructor's permission.