Art Classes

ClassesWhat to Expect from Studio Classes

AHS 101 Art History Survey I (3 credits)

A survey of the history of art from pre-history through the Gothic period. Topics include an introduction to the vocabulary of art through contemporary forms, with an emphasis on developing visual awareness of formal elements, aesthetics, and the components of style; an examination of the role of the artist in society and culture; and of the importance of art throughout history. NOTE: Students may receive credit for ART 103 or AHS 101, but not for both.

Prereq: ENG 101 or concurrent enrollment in ENG 101
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

AHS 102 Art History Survey II (3 credits)

A survey of the history of art from the early Renaissance in Europe to the modern period. Topics include the study of art from non-western cultures; an examination of the role of the artist in society and culture, and of the importance of art throughout history. NOTE: Students may receive credit for ART 104 or AHS 102.

Prereq: ENG 101 or concurrent enrollment in ENG 101
(Offered: Every Spring)

AHS 108 History of Photography (3 credits)

An introduction to the history of photography from pre-photographic times to its most recent developments. This course presents an overview of major photographers and trends, technological developments, and stylistic analysis. Students examine the social and cultural contexts of photography, as well as critical approaches to photography and the relationship of photography to other art forms. NOTE: Students may receive credit for ART 108 or AHS 108, but not for both.

Prereq: ENG 101
(Offered: Periodically)

AHS 201 Art Now (3 credits)

Examines the current art and artists that have promoted significant change in the art world. Students critically discuss the thinking behind this art, the process through which it becomes recognized as art, and how we understand the impact and aesthetic of contemporary art. NOTE: Students may receive credit for ACS 201 or AHS 201, but not for both. Special Requirement: Occasional off-campus meetings, which may include museums, galleries, or artist's studios; students assume any travel costs and make arrangements for their own transportation.

Prereq: ENG 101; ART 121 or permission of the instructor.
(Offered: Periodically)

AHS 207 History of Modern Art (3 credits)

A survey of modern art from Post-Impressionism to the present. Topics include major expressions in painting, sculpture, performance, installation, architecture; an examination of the role of the artist in society and culture, and the importance of art throughout modern history. NOTE: Students may only receive credit for AHS 207 or AHS 107 or ART 107.

Prereq: ENG 101. Recomm: AHS 101
(Offered: Every Fall)

ART 121 Visual Concepts I (3 credits)

Introduces the visual language of art-making and the principles of design. The course emphasizes problem-solving through the investigation of composition, spatial issues, the perceptual use of color and the development of visual ideas in 2D, 3D, and time.

Prereq: ENG 094 or concurrent enrollment or satisfactory placement ; Recomm: ENG 090 or satisfactory placement
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

ART 123 Visual Concepts II (3 credits)

Continues to develop proficiency in visual problem-solving through the investigation of composition, spatial issues, the perceptual use of color and the development of visual ideas in 2D, 3D, and time. Students produce a portfolio of work that demonstrates a critical understanding of the principles of design.

Prereq: ART 121
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

ART 131 Drawing Foundation (3 credits)

Presents a series of problems to acquaint the student with perceptual and inventive skills in drawing. The course introduces the visual language, drawing materials, and techniques while examining ways of implying space on a two-dimensional surface.

Prereq: ENG 094 or concurrent enrollment or satisfactory placement ; Recomm: ENG 090 or satisfactory placement
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

ART 132 Drawing II (3 credits)

A continuation of Drawing Foundation with emphasis on personal expression, idea development, and the use of color. Students work through a series of problems leading to the development of a drawing portfolio.

Prereq: ART 121 and ART 131
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

ART 151 Photography Foundation (3 credits)

Introduces the visual, critical, and technical issues of photography. Students learn the essential aspects of camera control and functionality leading to the production of a body of printed work. Special Requirement: Students must provide their own digital camera, preferably with shutter speed and f-stop controls.

Prereq: ENG 094 or satisfactory placement; Recomm: ART 121 and ENG 090 or satisfactory placement
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

ART 152 Film and the Darkroom (3 credits)

Introduces the visual, critical, and technical issues of darkroom-based black and white photography. The course covers the essential aspects of camera control and functionality when working with film and chemistry. Students produce a portfolio of silver gelatin prints.

Prereq: ENG 094 or concurrent enrollment or satisfactory placement. Recomm: ENG 090 or satisfactory placement
(Offered: Every Fall)

ART 155 Video Foundation (3 credits)

An art-based introduction to digital video. Topics include instruction in the use of digital video cameras, non-linear editing platforms, and digital sound. Students study video as a form of artistic expression with an emphasis on the development of the compositional, shooting, editing, conceptual, and critical skills associated with time-based media.

Prereq: ENG 094 or satisfactory placement. Recomm: ART 121 and ENG 090 or satisfactory placement
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

ART 161 Computer Arts Foundation (3 credits)

Introduces the computer as a medium for the creation of works of art. Students work through a series of problems that investigate different approaches to the medium providing a solid foundation in computer-based creation.

Prereq: ENG 094, or satisfactory placement. Recomm: ART 121 and ENG 090 or satisfactory placement
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

ART 235 Figure Drawing (3 credits)

An introduction to figure drawing. This course emphasizes observational drawing skills through an investigation of the human form, its underlying anatomical structure, and its spatial environment. The course focuses on drawing from the model with emphasis on gesture, proportion, foreshortening, and composition.

Prereq: ART 132
(Offered: Every Fall)

ART 236 Advanced Drawing I (3 credits)

Approaches drawing as a personalized form of expression and investigation. Students work in series to develop a body of work. Possibilities include figurative, life drawing, abstraction, and conceptual.

Prereq: ART 121 and ART 132 Recomm: ART 235
(Offered: Periodically)

ART 237 Advanced Drawing II (3 credits)

Continuation of ART 236, Advanced Drawing I. Students discuss and analyze the drawing medium in greater depth than in previous coursework and go on to create an individualized drawing portfolio demonstrating a critical understanding of the issues inherent in developing a cohesive body of work.

Prereq: ART 236
(Offered: Periodically)

ART 241 Painting (3 credits)

Introduces the medium and craft of painting. The course includes study in the mixing and application of color, construction of canvases and other painting supports. The course emphasizes composition and image development.

Prereq: ART 121 and ART 132
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

ART 242 Painting and Drawing I (3 credits)

An investigation of interrelationships of painting and drawing. Students work through a series of problems addressing formal and conceptual issues. The course emphasizes the development of an individual, cohesive, body of work.

Prereq: ART 241
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

ART 243 Painting and Drawing II (3 credits)

A continuation of ART 242, Painting and Drawing I, with emphasis on the development of an individual, cohesive, portfolio of work.

Prereq: ART 242
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

ART 247 Painting: On Location and in the Studio (3 credits)

An exploration of the craft of painting with an emphasis on methods, materials and the construction of the observed image. Students work in outdoor locations and within the studio to develop connections between observed space and visual memory. Special Requirement: Students must attend class meetings at off-campus locations, assume any travel costs, and make arrangements for transportation.

Prereq: ART 121 and 132 Recomm Prereq: ART 241
(Offered: Every Summer)

ART 251 Intermediate Photography I (3 credits)

Emphasizes the range of possibilities in photography, including film, digital, and the exploration of experimental processes. Students explore their interests through a project orientation and discuss issues and methodologies that concern the contemporary photographer.

Prereq: ART 151. Recomm: ART 152
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

ART 252 Intermediate Photography II (3 credits)

Continuation of ART 251 Intermediate Photography I. Students discuss and analyze the photographic image in greater depth than in previous coursework and go on to create an individualized photography portfolio demonstrating a critical understanding of the issues inherent in developing a cohesive body of work. Special Requirement: Students must provide their own camera with shutter speed and f-stop controls.

Prereq: ART 251 Recomm: ART 152
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

ART 280 Creative Coding (3 credits)

An introduction to coding for artists. Topics include programming motion, interactivity, sound, video, graphics and the study of the history of code-based art. Students complete a body of work exploring conceptual and visual ideas.

Prereq: ART 161. Recomm: MAT 095
(Offered: Every Spring)

ART 281 Computer Arts I (3 credits)

Explores the computer as a medium for the creation of works of art. Students create a series of works that investigate different approaches to the medium with the end goal of creating a Computer Arts portfolio. The instructor reviews different software and techniques each semester.

Prereq: ART 161 and ART 121 or permissions of the Department Chair
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

ART 282 Computer Arts II (3 credits)

Explores the computer as a medium for the creation of works of arts. Students continue to create a series of works that investigate different approaches to the medium with the end goal of creating an advanced Computer Arts portfolio. The instructor reviews different software and techniques each semester.

Prereq: ART 281
(Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring)

ART 290 Visual Arts Seminar (3 credits)

Builds on prior studio experience within a student's visual arts concentration. Each student produces a body of thematically linked works that display an advanced level of critical thinking and technical achievement. Students and faculty use regular class meetings for critical discussion and review of work. Student produce work outside of class time.

Prereq: Two 200-level courses coded ART
(Offered: Every Spring)

The following outlines the purposes art studio courses serve and policies to be followed in order to make them the most meaningful and useful:

  • To introduce a variety of visual principles through projects, demonstrations and discussion of work produced. To discuss and question (critique) in progress and completed projects.
  • To gain sufficient headway in working on an assignment so you can continue to develop the work outside of class. This includes:
    • Understanding materials and processes.
    • Familiarization in the use of tools.
    • Realizing the possibilities of personal investigations and exploring alternative solutions.
    • Sharing concepts and techniques with other students.
    • Resolving problems brought up in critique.
    • Developing self-discipline, time-management, and good studio work habits.
  • To learn to:
    • Function collaboratively in a group setting.
    • Be respectful of the property and space of other students.
    • Maintain a shared studio space.
  • To learn to take care of and to present your work professionally and on time.
  • To learn to effectively manage your time and meet deadlines: missing deadlines is disruptive and inconsiderate to the rest of the class. Art studios only meet for four hours each week: you need to be prepared to work independently for an additional eight hours, per course, per week.

The Nature of the Studio Course

The art studio is a serious, collaborative work environment. Arrive for class promptly so you can go right to work or set up for a critique. You are encouraged to share concepts and techniques, and exchange ideas and constructive criticism with other students in your classes. Demonstrations are typically made during the beginning of a class so it is essential that you arrive on time, sufficiently supplied, and ready to work. Be sure to bring your current work and notebook/sketchbook to every class meeting.

Do not be misled by the apparent amount of freedom you have in a studio class. During works periods you may move about the studio to see how other students are resolving problems or using materials, but not during a lecture or demonstration. All electronic devices including, phones, must be switched off; web browsing, email, and other online social activities are prohibited; do not bring breakfast/lunch/dinner to class; conversation should revolve around the work at hand rather than socializing, and must not be disruptive to others; always make time to clean up after yourself at the end of class.

Because studios are mature work environments they are not suitable places for minors. As a result, children are not permitted to attend studio class meetings or to be present in the studios outside of class periods.

No students or visitors are permitted in the painting studios (S230, S231) other than those currently enrolled in painting courses.

Critique

Learning to participate in a critique and to talk insightfully about your own work and the work of other students is one of the most valuable skills you will acquire and will help you to continue developing as an artist. A critique is a detailed analysis and assessment of the merits and shortcomings of a work of art. All critiques should provide both supportive and critical feedback that enables you to continue to explore and develop your ideas. Bring your work to critiques even if you consider it weak or unfinished.

Attendance

It is essential that you attend and be punctual for every class meeting. Unlike an academic class, studio classes are impossible to make up. However, if you unavoidably miss a class:

  • Let the instructor know ahead of time.
  • Make an appointment with your instructor prior to your next class meeting to review what you have missed and obtain any handouts.

Grading

Studio courses without ART prerequisites are letter graded; studio courses with 200-level ART prerequisites are graded Pass/Fail. Work is reviewed periodically throughout the semester and your progress assessed by the instructor. The following criteria are the qualities that will impact the strength of your work throughout the semester and final portfolio:

  • Working hard and in depth.
  • Taking risks in relation to new concepts, content, techniques, and processes.
  • The quantity, quality and strength of work throughout the semester.
  • Class attendance and punctuality.
  • Contribution to class discussions and critiques.
  • Extending investigative work on a project over a period of time.
  • Growth in the understanding of the visual language, issues, and concepts.
  • Development of competence in the manipulation of materials and media.

Portfolio

As an art student it is critical to keep your portfolio intact. A portfolio of work from each course is due for presentation at the end of the semester; this work may be retained by your instructor for a reasonable period of time (student work is often considered for inclusion in the annual Art Student Exhibit in the April, Art Department Web Site, and other publications). It is your responsibility to pick up your class portfolios after they have been graded.