ARTS — Studio Art: Catalog Entries

10 catalog course(s) on file. Undergraduate courses are numbered 100–499; graduate courses 500–699. See the department page for faculty and program information.

ARTS 101 — Drawing I(3 cr.)

Introduces fundamental drawing techniques including line, form, value, and composition. Students work from observation using a variety of dry and wet media. Regular critiques build a vocabulary for discussing visual work.

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ARTS 102 — Two-Dimensional Design(3 cr.)

Explores the formal elements and principles of two-dimensional design, including color theory, balance, and composition. Projects move from black-and-white studies to full color problems. The course establishes a visual foundation for further work in studio art.

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ARTS 150 — Three-Dimensional Design(3 cr.)

Introduces design principles in three dimensions, including form, space, and material. Students complete projects in a range of materials such as paper, wood, and found objects. Group critiques emphasize spatial reasoning and craftsmanship.

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ARTS 210 — Painting I(3 cr.)

Introduces the materials and techniques of painting in oil or acrylic. Students develop skills in color mixing, composition, and observational painting from still life and the model. Individual and group critiques guide development of technical and expressive skill.

Prerequisite(s): ARTS 101

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ARTS 215 — Ceramics I(3 cr.)

Introduces hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques in clay. Students learn glazing and firing processes while developing a personal approach to functional and sculptural forms. The course includes a survey of historical and contemporary ceramic traditions.

Prerequisite(s): ARTS 150

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ARTS 250 — Photography I(3 cr.)

Introduces the technical and conceptual foundations of photography, including exposure, composition, and digital editing. Students complete a series of assignments exploring different photographic genres. Weekly critiques develop students' visual literacy.

Prerequisite(s): ARTS 102

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ARTS 310 — Painting II(3 cr.)

Builds on foundational painting skills with an emphasis on developing a personal visual language. Students work on sustained bodies of work involving more complex composition and subject matter. Readings and museum visits situate student work within contemporary painting practice.

Prerequisite(s): ARTS 210

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ARTS 330 — Sculpture(3 cr.)

Explores sculptural form through a range of materials and processes, including carving, casting, and assemblage. Students consider the relationship between sculpture and the surrounding space. The course culminates in an installed group exhibition.

Prerequisite(s): ARTS 150

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ARTS 360 — Printmaking(3 cr.)

Introduces relief, intaglio, and monotype printmaking techniques. Students explore the expressive possibilities of multiples and the printed image. Technical demonstrations are paired with regular critique of student work.

Prerequisite(s): ARTS 101

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ARTS 495 — Senior Studio Thesis(4 cr.)

Guides senior studio art majors through the development of a cohesive body of work for a public thesis exhibition. Students meet regularly with faculty mentors and peers for critique and revision. Written artist statements accompany the final exhibited work.

Prerequisite(s): ARTS 310

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