Arch 4411 Introduction to Visual Arts

Credits: 1-6-3 (3 semester hours)

Type of Course: Supervised Lecture

Instructors: Harris Dimitropoulos, Jude LeBlanc

Prerequisites: none

Course Overview: Course objectives will be met through immersion in studio production in tandem with readings, discussions, and Lectures. This course is structured on the assertion that a balance of theory and production provides an effective framework for expedient, simultaneous gains in technical skill, conceptual ability and awareness of contemporary practice.

Individual exercises (projects) will last up to two weeks. These exercises will address color theory, conventions of representation, concept/content and procedural approaches to abstraction.

Five to six hours of contact time each week will be devoted to an in-class drawing assignment, usually from observation (objects, landscapes, figures)

One hour per week will be devoted to slide Lectures and class discussions.

Learning Objectives: enhancement of 2-d, hand media skills, increased knowledge of the technical skills, procedures & concepts that generate works of art

Course Requirements: Attendance is required. Projects are structured in a manner that allows them to be completed in class, with minimal outside work. All projects require criticism and feedback while in progress, so attendance is necessary to provide these encounters. Work that is similar in intent or technique but was produced previously or completely outside of the Visual Arts studio cannot be submitted for a grade.

60% project portfolio

Projects will be collected as they are completed. They will be evaluated at midterm and at the end of the semester.

20% drawing portfolio

The drawing portfolio will be collected at midterm and at the end of the semester and evaluated at those times.

10% Participation in discussions, gallery visits, etc.

Students will be asked to comment or lead discussions on reading assignments and slide Lectures. However, it is preferable that students speak voluntarily during discussions.

10% Research presentation

Research topics will be chosen early in the semester and presentations will be given at the Lecture hour for the final four weeks of the course.