Art Courses

Student in art classroom

ART 101 - Visual Communication

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

The Visual Communication course is designed to introduce students to the fundamental issues involved in the production and understanding of works of art within the broad context of human interaction and communication. The course introduces the student to the concepts, ideas, forms and qualities of art and art appreciation, while simultaneously connecting the images that appear in everyday life to history, culture and visual aesthetics. Themes include ethical issues and censorship of art. This course will be open to students who are in or have placed into ENGL 098. 

Offered Online: Yes
General Education Fulfillment: Cultural Analysis and Interpretation

ART 101H - Visual Communication (Honors)

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

This course considers art as a significant form of visual communication across multiple times and cultures. Through the study of available methods for looking and interacting with works of art, students learn to write and speak critically about the visual tools that artists use to communicate to the audience, with emphasis on art historical theory and interpretation, as well as relationships between art history and other academic disciplines.

Offered Online: Yes
General Education Fulfillment: Cultural Analysis and Interpretation
Prerequisite:

ENGL 101, may be taken concurrently.

ART 103 - History of Art: Ancient to Renaissance

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

Survey of the basic art forms - architecture, sculpture and painting - from ancient civilizations (including some non-Western cultures) through the Renaissance. The course explores concepts and media, as well as the political, social and religious developments which induced important artistic changes. Field trips to museums. 

Offered Online: Yes
General Education Fulfillment: Cultural Analysis and Interpretation

ART 103H - History of Art: Ancient to Renaissance (Honors)

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

This course is a survey of the history of art from prehistory through the 15th century with emphasis on art historical theory and interpretation as well as relationships between art history and other academic disciplines.

General Education Fulfillment: Cultural Analysis and Interpretation

ART 104 - History of Art II: Renaissance to Modern

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

Survey of the basic art forms - architecture, sculpture and painting - from the Renaissance through the 20th century, including some non-Western cultures. The course explores concepts and media, as well as the political, social and religious developments which induced important artistic changes. Field trips to museums. 

Offered Online: Yes
General Education Fulfillment: Cultural Analysis and Interpretation

ART 104H - History of Art: Renaissance to Modern (Honors)

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

This course is a survey of the history of art from approximately the 15th through the 20th century with emphasis on art historical theory and interpretation as well as relationships between art history and other academic disciplines. 

General Education Fulfillment: Cultural Analysis and Interpretation

ART 105 - Drawing I

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

Drawing I focuses on the basic principles of drawing. Through working from direct observation, students learn about the elements (concepts) and mechanics of drawing. Students will be taught how to control the placement of objects on the page, and the use of sight measuring—sighting along a pencil to compare distances and angles and to compare height vs. width. Students will also be taught how to construct geometric forms using sight measuring, perspective (convergence), transparent construction (drawing every object as though you can see through it) and tone (value). Students will learn about the materials and supplies of drawing through demonstrations given by the instructor and through the drawing process. Throughout the course, art history will be referenced to illustrate concepts discussed in the course.

Additional course fee: $135
General Education Fulfillment: Oral Communication/Creative Expression
Prerequisite:

ENGL 071 and ENGL 081/ENGL 091 or higher placement 

ART 106 - Drawing II

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

Drawing II builds upon the concepts covered in Drawing I. The students will use basic geometric forms as a means of analyzing the structure and volume of progressively more complex geometric as well as organic forms including an introduction to the human form. Students will also be required to articulate spatial relationships using both line and tone. Weekly homework assignments will be given in conjunction with classroom assignments. Students will learn about the materials and process of drawing through demonstrations given by the instructor. Throughout the semester, art history will be referenced to illustrate concepts discussed in the course. Relevant examples of art history will be shown through digital images, books and museum trips. Students will also learn basic vocabulary and concepts that they will put into practice during classroom critiques and discussions.

Additional course fee: $135
Prerequisite:

ART 105ENGL 071 and ENGL 081/ENGL 091 or higher placement 

ART 109 - Ceramics I

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

Introduction to the basic techniques of working in clay: coiling, slab construction, pinching, wheel throwing and glazing. Both functional and sculptural works are created as an understanding of form and surface is gained. The use of slides and visits to museums and art galleries will introduce students to historical and contemporary ceramics.

Additional course fee: $135
General Education Fulfillment: Oral Communication/Creative Expression
Prerequisite:

ENGL 071 and ENGL 081/ENGL 091 or higher placement 

ART 111 - Three-Dimensional Design I

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

Explores the organization of objects in space through the visual elements of design--texture, line, pattern, form, shape, balance, proportion, light and shadow, weight, mass and volume. Simple materials such as bristol paper, foam core, balsa wood, chipboard and screening will be used to develop basic building techniques and skills. Using these materials in combination with conceptual problem solving assignments, students will develop a visual literacy where they will be able to analyze and discuss the compositional design elements which comprise a strong three-dimensional design.

Additional course fee: $135
General Education Fulfillment: Oral Communication/Creative Expression

ART 112 - Three-Dimensional Design II

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

This course is a continuation of basic three-dimensional design concepts, as introduced in ART 111. These concepts are strengthened and reinforced in ART 112 through further development of technical and design issues as they apply to working sculpturally. ART 112 emphasizes two aspects of working sculpturally not covered in ART 111: content and mass. The incorporation of the element of content, both conceptual and perceptual, stresses the importance of message and meaning in art. Students will confront traditional methods of sculpting mass, including both the additive and subtractive processes of modeling and carving. Projects are designed to encourage development of a personal artistic aesthetic. 

Additional course fee: $135
Prerequisite:

ART 111

ART 115 - Painting I

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

Painting I is designed to introduce students to the basics of painting through the study of art history, materials, the painting process and the elements of painting. Through direct observation of the subject, students will learn to evaluate color and tonal relationships. In addition to working hands on, they will learn about materials, the painting process, and will reference art history through images, talks, and museum visits. (Approximate supply cost: $150.)

Additional course fee: $135
General Education Fulfillment: Oral Communication/Creative Expression

ART 120 Art in Africa

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

An art history course that surveys the sculpture, architecture and painting of Africa. The students learn about nations and cultures through their art and artistic productions. Traditional art, such as sculpture, and traditional crafts are studied. The students view the art of various African nations in light of their social and political structures. Various art styles and pragmatic uses of the art works are also emphasized. 

ART 125 - Design I

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

Design I focuses on two-dimensional, black and white work, which is organized to create an awareness of basic design principles. It serves as the visual foundation for all design career- related areas of study including Graphic Design and Interior Design, as well as for traditional fine art study in drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture and ceramics. Perceptual and abstract approaches to design using the major elements of line, shape and tone will be presented and explored through a progressive evolution of projects. (Approximate supply cost: $250-$300.)

Additional course fee: $135
General Education Fulfillment: Oral Communication/Creative Expression

ART 126 - Design II

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

Continuation of concepts studied in Design I, as color theory and its applications are presented. Amplification of issues in design such as arrangement of line, shape and tone with colors as the focus. Geometric and organic forms, as well as observation from nature are explored. Design concepts are developed from idea to finished production. (Approximate supply cost: $200-$225.) 

Additional course fee: $135
Prerequisite:

ART 125

ART 150 - Introduction to Computer Art/Graphics

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

Basic introduction to the language, technology and artistic medium of computer graphics. Course format is essentially studio/lab in nature, with instruction and demonstration preceding hands-on equipment use.

Additional course fee: $135
General Education Fulfillment: Oral Communication/Creative Expression, Technological Competency

ART 151 - Graphic Design I

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

Introduction to graphic design through visual problem-solving for the purpose of communication. Studio projects emphasize the development of visual ideas and include the study of letter forms (typography), basic design techniques and graphic design principles. The use of the computer is introduced along with graphic design software. This technology is combined with more traditional (hands-on) studio experience for the initial stages of design and conceptual development. Studio and computer lab work are integral to this course.

Additional course fee: $135
Prerequisite:

ART 150

ART 171 - Topics in Art

1-0-1
Credit Hours: 1

Thematic lecture course, using a particular topic to develop visual vocabulary, an understanding of the uses of art and critical evaluative skills. Emphasis on innovative teaching techniques and flexibility of course content. The specific topics will be announced prior to registration. Students may earn up to 3 credits for each special-topics lecture course satisfactorily completed.

ART 172 - Topics in Art

2-0-2
Credit Hours: 2

Thematic lecture course, using a particular topic to develop visual vocabulary, an understanding of the uses of art and critical evaluative skills. Emphasis on innovative teaching techniques and flexibility of course content. The specific topics will be announced prior to registration. Students may earn up to 3 credits for each special-topics lecture course satisfactorily completed.

ART 173 - Topics in Art

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

Thematic lecture course, using a particular topic to develop visual vocabulary, an understanding of the uses of art and critical evaluative skills. Emphasis on innovative teaching techniques and flexibility of course content. The specific topics will be announced prior to registration. Students may earn up to 3 credits for each special-topics lecture course satisfactorily completed.

ART 180 - Topics in Art Studio

0-2-1
Credit Hours: 1

Special projects course to develop basic studio skills in a specialized area. Emphasis is on innovative teaching techniques and flexibility of course content. The specific topics will be announced prior to registration. Students may earn up to 3 credits for each special-topics studio course satisfactorily completed.

ART 182 - Topics in Art Studio

0-4-2
Credit Hours: 2

Special projects course to develop basic studio skills in a specialized area. Emphasis is on innovative teaching techniques and flexibility of course content. The specific topics will be announced prior to registration. Students may earn up to 3 credits for each special-topics studio course satisfactorily completed.

ART 183 - Topics in Art Studio

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

Special projects course to develop basic studio skills in a specialized area. Emphasis is on innovative teaching techniques and flexibility of course content. The specific topics will be announced prior to registration. Students may earn up to 3 credits for each special-topics studio course satisfactorily completed.

Additional course fee: $135

ART 205 - Seminar: Modern and Contemporary Art

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

Seminar-based art history course focused on Modern and Contemporary art from 1860-today. Examinations of painting, sculpture, architecture, photography, film, and mixed media from a global and/or thematic perspective. Includes various contexts such as modern psychology and sociology as they affect trends in modern and contemporary art and culture. Student activities include films; excursions to art galleries, museums and artists' studios; and guest lecturers.

Prerequisite:

ART 103 and ART 104

ART 207 - Drawing III

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

The human figure is the focus of this class. Working from the model, the class will consider the gesture and proportions of the figure. Students will be encouraged to conceive of the figure as a series of volumes in space. Basic anatomy will be introduced. The dynamic and expressive content of drawing will be encouraged. Media will be primarily pencil and charcoal.

Additional course fee: $135
Prerequisite:

ART 106

ART 208 - Drawing IV

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

At this level of drawing, all students should be fundamentally sound and competent with the figure. The figure will be integrated into more complex spaces and compositions. However, the figure will not be the only subject. There will be more room for exploring personal themes and expressions. A wider variety of drawing materials will be used. 

Additional course fee: $135
Prerequisite:

ART 207

ART 209 - Ceramics II

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

This course is the second level of ceramics, designed to develop technical and conceptual skills for the purpose of more advanced visual communication using clay as a medium. Basic technical skills introduced in ART 109 will be enhanced through the refined study of wheel-thrown forms, sculptural hand- built forms and glaze application. The ceramic studio classroom is integral to this advanced course. 

Additional course fee: $135
Prerequisite:

ART 109

ART 215 - Painting II

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

Painting with oil paints, students work from direct observation. The class will work from studio subjects and the landscape to further develop the skills learned in Painting I. There will be more emphasis placed on light, space and composition. 

Additional course fee: $135
Prerequisite:

ART 115

ART 251 - Graphic Design II

0-6-3
Credit Hours: 3

This course emphasizes the further development and exploration of visual design concepts. It utilizes the computer and software programs to generate successful visual problem-solving designs (from original concepts). Assignments will move toward the more practical application of graphic design. Three-dimensional projects such as package and bag design are introduced, along with more sophisticated design problems.

Additional course fee: $135
Prerequisite:

ART 151

ART 290 - Portfolio Preparation

3-3-3
Credit Hours: 3

This course aids the student in transferring with advanced standing into an art school or university art department. Advising and consultation about transfer procedures; financial aid, scholarship opportunities, specific career programs and choices of schools are all components of the course. Exit criteria include digital images of artwork to serve as portfolio, an essay, three completed applications and written summaries of field trips to art schools. Special presentations by area and national art schools as well as former graduates are incorporated. Individual studio projects are assigned to strengthen the portfolio.

Additional course fee: $135
General Education Fulfillment: Technological Competency
Prerequisite:

ART 106, ART 125 and ART 111 or permission of Department Head