Department of Art

Art Department Courses

Studio courses which earn three credit hours require at least nine hours in the studio per week, six hours of which will be supervised. Class assignments will include sufficient material to cover the additional three hours.

Studio courses require that each student purchase expendable supplies as required. Some expendable materials and such supplies as easels, workshop equipment, and drawing boards are supplied by the department.

101 Drawing I
Credits: 3
A broad foundation course that introduces the student to a variety of drawing techniques, approaches and subject matter. Sketchbook/journal required.

102 Drawing II
Credits: 3
A broad foundation course, similar to ART 101, with more emphasis on value, the figure and/ or portraiture. Introduction to the use of color in drawing.

103 2D Design
Credits: 3
The fundamentals of two-dimensional design: line, shape, value, texture and color are explored individually and in composition using a variety of 2D media. Critical discussion of design principles is an important requisite of the course. Individual and group critiques.

104 3D Design
Credits: 3
This course is a study of three-dimensional form explored through a variety of 3D media using the elements and principles of design as a basis. Individual and group critiques.

111 Ceramics I
Credits:3
An introduction to ceramics including throwing techniques (cylinders, bowls, and mugs) medium scale hand building techniques (coil and slab methods), as well as high fire glaze
application. Group discussions and critiques.

125 Silkscreen
Credits: 3
Introduction to the various methods of serigraphy, with exploration of color, tone and texture as the natural result of the process.

141 Art Encounter
Credits: 3
This course is an introduction to the appreciation of the visual arts for the non-major. The student develops visual awareness through looking at art from various periods in history, through discussion of trends in art, analysis of design elements, and introduction to materials and techniques.

205 Painting: Oil
Credits: 3
An introductory painting course in which the student is expected to begin developing a facility in manipulating and using the materials, techniques and idiom of painting. The primary focus of the course is on oils.

206 Painting: Acrylic
Credits: 3
This course consists of a series of painting assignments that introduces the student to the materials, techniques and idiom of painting with acrylic paints. By the end of the course, the
student is expected to be able to visually express her unique ideas and views with this medium.

211 Ceramics II
Credits: 3
A course designed to increase technical skills as well as understanding of materials. Further instruction in wheel throwing and hand-forming techniques and combinations of these. The
student is responsible for glaze preparation, various types of glaze application and firing the kiln under the supervision of the instructor. Prerequisite: ART 111.

217 Sculpture: Modeling and Replication
Credits: 3
An introductory level course in which students explore traditional and contemporary mold making and casting techniques. Students learn to replicate originals in clay, as well as create molds from found objects. A variety of traditional and contemporary casting methods -- both solid and hollow -- and agents (plaster, rubber, etc.) are explored, along with subsequent modes of presentation.

218 Reductive/Constructive Approaches to Sculpture
Credits: 3
An introductory, predominately "form" based course in which students thematically and technically explore additive and subtractive approaches to object-making. Traditional additive and subtractive methods (such as wood/plaster carving, basic woodworking, for example) are explored, in addition to contemporary approaches (a reductive process performed and documented on a website over the course of a semester) to the theme.

221 Photography I
Credits: 3
Introductory black and white photography. Students study the basic elements necessary for control in the exposure, development and printing of photographic materials. Initial exploration of the medium stresses consideration of its visual and aesthetic dimensions through a creative problem-solving approach. (Variable shutter/ aperture camera required)

223 Introduction to Digital Photography
Credits: 3
Introductory digital photography. Students study basic elements for the recording and printing of digital images. Initial exploration of the medium places emphasis on the visual, aesthetic and expressive dimensions of the medium through a creative problem-solving approach. (Digital or film camera required, digital media required.)

224 Video Art
Credits: 3
This course introduces the medium of video as an art form and will explore, in theory and practice, issues of space, time and action. Proficiencies in camera use, storyboarding, lighting, digital video editing and presentation will be developed. The use of video for artistic expression will be supported by readings and the viewing and discussion of works by video artists.

227 Etching
Credits: 3
An introductory printmaking course with emphasis on various intaglio techniques. Line etching, aquatint, soft-ground, lift-ground and other etching techniques will be explored along with an introduction to color printing and collagraphs. Small editions will be required. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor. Offered occasionally.

228 Lithography
Credits: 3
An introductory printmaking course which will cover basic metal plate lithographic processes. Crayon, washes, transfers and the use of color will be explored providing the student with a sound technical basis to produce works that are strong personal statements. Small editions will be required. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor. Offered occasionally.

231 Teaching Art in the Elementary School & Middle School (See Art 402)

237 Fiber: Surface Construction
Credits: 3
An introduction to fiber media and techniques for surface construction including felt making, paper making, woven forms and experimental mixed media. Group critiques. Consideration of textile history and contemporary fiber art.

238 Fiber: Surface Design
Credits: 3
An introduction to surface design, especially dye applications and techniques (resists, fabric painting and printing), needlework and machine sewing. Group critiques. Consideration of textile history and contemporary fiber art.

239 Fiber: Fabric Printing
Credits: 3
This course in fabric printing will survey ancient to contemporary methods for developing image, color and pattern on cloth. Printing techniques will include block/stamp, silkscreen and heat transfer methods. Students will explore the use of dyes, pigments, resists and ink jet transfers on a variety of natural and synthetic fabrics. Lectures will introduce historic and contemporary textiles and a short research paper will be assigned.

241 Art History Survey I
Credits: 3
A survey of the history of art from prehistoric times through the Gothic era. Emphasis on analyzing a work of art is combined with learning historical period styles to encourage visual
literacy. Lectures with slides, museum field trips, selected readings and discussion are featured.

242 Art History Survey II
Credits: 3
A survey of the history of art from the Renaissance through modern times. Discussion of contemporary issues about art is combined with analysis and placement of art in historical contexts to promote visual literacy. Lectures with slides, museum field trips, selected readings and discussion are featured.

251RM Italian Art History I
Credits: 3
A study of art on the Italian peninsula from the 5th century B.C.E. through the late Gothic period. The study of Greek art serves as a broad basis for understanding Roman art. The Early Christian, Romanesque and Gothic periods will be studied in the context of their Italian manifestations. Tours and site lectures will be part of the class. Rome campus.

252RM Italian Art History II
Credits: 3
A study of Italian art from the early Renaissance through modern times. Tours and site lectures will be part of the class. Rome campus.

266 Introduction to New Media
Credits: 3
An introduction to the new visual technologies and basic concepts (mechanical, visual, and aesthetic) for their creative use in the visual arts. Those fields involved may include photography, film, video, computer imagery, holography and other contemporary media. Students will be introduced to these media through lectures, direct laboratory experience, discussion, and creative problem-solving projects. No prerequisites: ART 103 desirable. (Also listed as COMM 266)

290 Special Topics in Studio Art
Credits: 1-3
The presentation of selected subjects of special relevance not included in regular departmental offerings. Prerequisite: established by the instructor. May be repeated with different topic.

293 Asian Art
Credits: 3
A survey of the arts of Asia, primarily South Asia, and China, with an emphasis on the relationship between various art forms and their religious/ritual context. Slide lectures,
demonstrations, museum visits and discussion of selected reading.

301 Advanced Drawing
Credits: 3
A series of problems that develop the perceptual, aesthetic and empathetic interpretation of subjects which hold potential for creative drawing. Prerequisite: ART 101, 102. May be repeated once.

305 Advanced Painting I
Credits: 3
This is an advanced course that encourages the student to explore various concepts, forms and imagery in view of developing a more personal visual statement. Group and individual
critiques. Prerequisite: ART 205, 206, or permission of instructor.

306 Advanced Painting II
Credits: 3
An advanced course that allows the student to develop her own critical vision in response to a series of loosely structured assignments. Group and individual critiques. Prerequisite: ART
205, 206, or permission of instructor.

311 Ceramics III
Credits: 3
A course which aims to develop a more sophisticated understanding of ceramic design and increased understanding of ceramic techniques. Experimentation with ceramic materials is
encouraged. Emphasis is on aesthetic understanding of design and decoration in relation to form. Students will assume more responsibility in stacking and firing kilns. Prerequisite: ART 211.

317 Sculpture: Object and Installation
Credits: 3
An upper level, predominately "space" based course in which students thematically and technically explore installation as the primary presentation method for a variety of sculpture-related media. Students work both individually and collaboratively on installation projects that explore physical space concerns in a myriad of ways: immersive environments; site-specificity; public and community outreach projects, etc. This course is open to students from all disciplines. Prerequisite: ART 217 or 218, or with permission.

318 Sculpture: Beyond Object
Credits: 3
An upper level course dealing with both "form" and "space," students are introduced to concepts outside of the traditional realm of three-dimensional form. Students will explore installation strategies and form explorations that incorporate the use of digital video, audio and sound, virtual space (web-based projects), and other new technologies. This course is open to students from all disciplines. Prerequisite: Art 217 or 218, or with permission.

321 Photography II
Credits: 3
Intermediate black and white photography. Through various laboratory projects, students study advanced photographic principles which permit enhanced control of the medium. Increased emphasis is placed upon the application of these controls to the act of artistic expression. Individual and group critiques provide opportunities for discussion of photography's aesthetic dimensions. (Variable shutter/aperture camera required)
Prerequisite: ART 221.

323 Photo-Silkscreen
Credits: 3
This course deals with the use of photographic images, ideas and techniques in the graphic process of serigraphy. Group discussion and critiques. Prerequisite: ART 125.

327 Printmaking III
Credits: 3
An advanced course for the student to explore further the creative potential and possibilities of printmaking as a medium for personal statements. Use of color emphasized. Prerequisite: ART 227 or 228. Offered occasionally.

330 Book Arts/Artists' Books
Credits:3
An exploration into the fabrication and significance of artists' books as an expressive medium. A series of books will be produced using diverse media, bindings and conceptual approaches to accommodate individual means of expression. An emphasis will be placed on one-of-a-kind visual books with some exploration into very limited editions.

331 Teaching Art in the High School (See Art 403)

337 Advanced Fiber: Surface Construction
Credits: 3
Advanced surface construction techniques including felt, paper making, and advanced woven forms. Emphasis is on individual conceptual development. Lecture and critique. Research project on fiber related topic. Prerequisite: ART 237.

338 Advanced Fiber: Surface Design
Credits: 3
Advanced surface design techniques including dye resists, fabric printing, fabric construction and wearable art. Emphasis on individual conceptual development. Lecture and critique. Research project on fiber related topic. Prerequisite: ART 238 or 239.

341 Early Medieval Art
Credits: 3
A study of Christian art in the West from 300 to 1150, beginning with Constantine, continuing with the revival of imperial traditions under Charlemagne, the Ottoman Empire and development of Romanesque art. Offered occasionally.

342 The Age of Cathedrals
Credit: 3
The cathedral was at the center of the medieval city in Europe. This course will study its construction and effect on the religious, urban, economic, social, and other art forms of the Gothic era.

346 Museums and Culture
Credits: 3
Museums are caretakers of culture: They shape our view of ourselves in history, and offer a place of meditation and learning, but that traditional role and function is changing. This course will examine the history of collecting in the West, its development into public institutions, the financial, legal, philosophical and ethical issues confronting museums today, as well as the implications for the future.

348 The 19th Century in Art
Credits: 3
The 19th century was one of turmoil and revolution. This is reflected in art movements such as Neo-Classicism, Romanticism, Realism, Impressionism, and Post-Impressionism. In these
movements lie the roots of modern art.

349 American Art, 1945 to Present
Credits: 3
The course focuses on the major movements in American art from Abstract Expressionism to the most current developments on the American art scene.

351RM Topics in Italian Art
Credits: 3
Investigation of one period of Italian art such as Baroque Art in Rome or Contemporary Italian Art to capitalize on various opportunities available. May be repeated.

357 Holography Workshop
Credits: 3
An introduction to the principles of holography and optics accompanied by studio exercises in the techniques of single and multiple beam reflection and transmission holography. Special attention given to the application of this medium for purposes of visual expression. Lectures, studio lab exercises and visits to pertinent exhibitions. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor. Offered occasionally.

390 Special Topics in Studio Art
Credits: 1-3
The presentation of selected subjects of special relevance not included in regular departmental offerings. Prerequisite: established by the instructor. May be repeated with different topic.

391 Special Topics in Art History and Criticism
Credits: 1-3
The presentation of selected subjects of special relevance not included in regular departmental offerings. Prerequisite: established by the instructor. May be repeated with different topic. (Formerly ART 395)

397 Independent Study
Credits: 1-3
Students with sufficient background experience work independently under the direction of a faculty member in studio or art history. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. May be repeated.

402 Teaching Art in the Elementary and Middle School
Credits: 3
This course is designed to provide K-8 art specialists and elementary education teachers a comprehensive, discipline-based approach to teaching art in the classroom. Lecture, discussion, museum visits and studio activities will emphasize children’s artistic development, national and state visual arts standards, integrating aesthetics, criticism, art history and the making of art as well as careers, community and cross-curricular studies into practical and meaningful lessons and units of instruction. This course includes a field experience component. Prerequisite: Educ 201 or permission.

403 Teaching Art in the High School
Credits: 3
This course is designed to provide future art specialists a comprehensive, discipline-based approach to teaching art in the high school setting. In addition to readings, discussion and studio activities that consider appropriate content, methods and materials in the secondary school, students will create a functional, in-depth curriculum that is based on national and state visual arts standards and the inclusion of aesthetics, criticism, art history and the making of art. This course includes a field experience component. Prerequisite: Educ 201 or permission.

407 Painting Studio
Credits: 3
Further investigations into the development of personal concepts, statements and painting styles. Individual and group critiques. Prerequisite: ART 305, 306. May be repeated.

411 Ceramics IV
Credits: 3
The total process of pottery-making approached on an experimental level using raw materials to compose clay bodies, glaze and colorants. Students fire both oxidation and reduction kilns. Prerequisite: ART 311

417 Advanced Sculpture Topics
Credits: 3

421 Photography III
Credits: 3
Continued study of the medium's technical and aesthetic dimensions through individual laboratory work, readings, group critiques and discussions. Students are also introduced to and encouraged to work with alternative photographic processes including new digital photographic techniques. (Variable shutter/aperture camera required) Prerequisites: ART 321 and permission of instructor.

427 Printmaking Studio
Credits: 3
An advanced course for the student desiring a concentration. Individually assigned problems to develop further personal concepts, styles, techniques and modes of expression in the student's chosen printmaking medium. Prerequisite: ART 327. May be repeated. Offered occasionally.

449 Seminar in Impressionism and Post-Impressionism
Credits: 3
A discussion of selected readings on artists associated with the Impressionist movement such as Monet, Manet, Degas, Cassatt and Morisot, and their influence on the next generation.
Prerequisite: ART 242 or 348.

485 Art History Methods
Credits: 3
This course investigates and practices different approaches to research and writing in art criticism and history, and explores the history of the discipline itself. Exercises in archival
investigation, reading original documents, formal and iconographic interpretation, analysis of critical theory, feminist, psychoanalytic and social-historical readings. Prerequisite: ART 241,
242. (Formerly ART 462)

495 Senior Comprehensive in Art History or Studio Art
Credits: 3
A final semester, independent, creative research project in a studio art concentration or art history approved by Art Department faculty. The studio project results in the presentation of a cohesive body of work which is original and aesthetically and conceptually sound. Four previous courses in the area of studio concentration are required. The art history comprehensive is a paper on a selected topic demonstrating conceptual originality, research skill and appropriate methodology.

497 Independent Study
Credits: 1-3
Students with sufficient backgrounds work independently under the direction of a faculty member in studio or art history. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor. May be repeated.

499 Internship
Credits: 1-3
Work experience in art-related business, institution, or museum. Jointly supervised by a faculty member and a representative from the sponsoring site. Prerequisite: permission of campus and site supervisor. May be repeated.