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Provides a solid foundation in 2-D design and color theory. Students will learn the basic elements needed to form visual patterns and proceed to explore a variety of approaches relating to visual organization and pictorial composition. A section of the course will be dedicated to the fundamentals of color theory, its function, and application.

Introduces the technical and conceptual elements for the organization and development of 3-D structures. Beginning projects will address the basic elements needed to explore a variety of approaches relating to form and space, then move to more complex issues involving the relationships between form and function.

Examines the history of western civilization through the study of objects created by people from various western cultures from the cave paintings of the pre-historic era to the great cathedrals of Europe during the 12th and 13th centuries. Students will study the artifacts, architecture, painting, and sculpture that inform understanding of a culture’s way of life, beliefs, and priorities. In turn, students will gain a deeper understanding of today’s culture and society. Students will also develop the basic skills and vocabulary necessary to critique a work of art.

Examines the history of painting sculpture and architecture created by Western Europeans from the early 14th century through the 19th century (and beyond, if time permits). These works of art will be studied as a way to understand the way of life, beliefs, and priorities of these societies, as well as contemporary culture. Students will also continue to develop the basic skills and vocabulary necessary to critique a work of art.

Examines the origins and development of modern art from the French Revolution in 1789 to the outbreak of World War II in 1939. Late 20th century art, including Postmodernism, and trends in contemporary art are introduced. Emphasis is placed on 2-D art, sculpture and architecture, and the creative processes employed by modern artists. Students explore individual works of art within their cultural and historical context.

Introduces the basic techniques of oil painting, concentrating on the principles of color and light. Using a variety of subject matter, students will explore the problems of pictorial composition, color theory, oil-related mediums, and techniques.

Introduces the basic watercolor techniques and use of materials. It is a sequential program of study, applying the elements and principles of 2-D design to the watercolor discipline. Students will study still life, landscape, and the human form. Reference will be made to past and contemporary masters of the watercolor medium.

Familiarizes students with basic film photography and beginner darkroom techniques. Students are instructed in the use and care of a 35mm manual film camera, film developing and darkroom printing techniques. Assignments are designed to cover a variety of shooting situations and the expectation is that students will apply the elements of composition, capture expressive content, and demonstrate proficient technical ability in the making of photographs. Students should expect to provide their own 35mm film camera with full manual controls. A $20 fee will be assessed for all students in this course to cover the cost and disposal of chemicals used in this class.

Introduces the basic human figural sculpture, designed to develop the student’s understanding of the anatomical structures of the human figure, gestural forms, and constructive methods and application of this knowledge to create unique character and figural sculptures in traditional sculpting media, such as wire, wax, plaster, and clay. The emphasis in imagery will be direct live-model observations, translating 2-D sources into form, developing hand-eye coordination, technical discipline, and evolving a personal expressive use of materials, technique, and subject matter. All projects are designed to combine related technical, visual, and historical components. A $20 fee will be assessed for all students in this course to cover the cost of live modeling.

Focuses on studio work leading to the completion of five projects. Students will learn the basics of handbuilding, the potter’s wheel, kiln firing, glazing, and surface embellishment. Class time will be made up of instructor’s demonstrations, group critiques, and individual studio work. Projects will stress the sculptural potential of clay with a visit into the aesthetic merit of functional vessel making. A research project, introducing students to the work of historical clay artists, will provide inspiration and direction. A $50 ceramic studio fee will be assessed.