Courses
(This list of courses may not be up to date. Please see the latest General Catalog for a complete list of current courses.)
Lecture courses are scheduled to allow 15 hours of instructor contact hours per semester unit. Each unit of credit is further assumed to generate a minimum of 30 hours (2 hours per week during a traditional 15 week semester) of additional outside-of-class work. Art history classes are 4 unit lecture courses scheduled to meet four hours a week for 15 weeks. These 4 unit lecture courses require an additional 8 hours a week of outside-of-class student work.
Art History
ARTH 007. Survey of World Art to 1400 (4) A foundational level art history course that surveys the major periods of world art from the Stone Age to onset of the Renaissance in the West during the 14th. Century. This is a lecture-based course using visual images to examine the characteristics and styles of each period.
ARTH 009. Survey of World Art After 1400 (4) A continuation of ARTH 007, examining painting, sculpture, architecture and the artistic directions in world art from 1400 to the present. Areas to be covered include Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassicism, Impressionism, Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art and Conceptual Art.
ARTH 101. Design Thinking (4) A survey of the development of graphic communication introduced by formal analysis of major works of graphic design within the context of their time and influence on later works. This course highlights significant events in communication and graphic design from 1450 to the present. Prerequisite: ARTS 075 or permission of instructor.
ARTH 114. 20th Century Art and Film (4) Major styles of the 20th century including Fauvism, Cubism, Expressionism, Surrealism, etc., and their appearance in the visual arts, theater design, and film will be explored. We will also evaluate how Western European artists borrowed imagery from other cultures and their relationship to colonialist concerns. We will also consider representations of the body and how this imagery relates to gender constructions. The effects of urbanization upon the artistic enterprise and the development of abstract and non-objective art will also be considered. This course satisfies a requirement of the Film Studies minor.
ARTH 116. Contemporary World Art 1945 to Present (4) This course will explore major artists, styles and movements in world art from 1945 to the present. Gestural abstraction, Pop, Photo Realism, Happenings, Video, Performance, Conceptual and Political art as well as film are a few of the tends that will be considered. Ever-expanding notions of what constitutes art in this pluralistic era will be examined. This course satisfies a requirement of the Film Studies minor.
ARTH 120 Chinese Art History (4) An introductory survey of the arts of China, from the Stone Age to the present. Works of art are analyzed stylistically and their meanings examined within original political and social contexts. China's enduring artistic tradition will be emphasized.
ARTH 122 Japanese Art History (4) An introductory survey to the arts of Japan, from prehistoric to the present. Works of art are analyzed for their style, meanings, and original political and social contexts. How artists worked within Japanese artistic tradition and how they absorbed influences from abroad will be emphasized.
ARTH 087, 187. Internship (2-4) Off-campus, non-classroom experiences/projects related to art history.
ARTH 089, 189. Practicum (2-4) Off-campus, non-classroom experiences/projects related to art history.
ARTH 191. Independent Study (2-4) Enrollment by permission of faculty. Unless indicated, independent study courses may be counted only as electives.
Studio courses are scheduled to allow 30 hours of instructor contact hours per semester unit. Each unit of credit is further assumed to generate a minimum of 15 hours (1 hour per week during a traditional 15 week semester) of additional outside-of-class work. Most art classes are 3 unit studio courses scheduled to meet six hours a week for 15 weeks. These 3 unit studio courses require an additional 3 hours a week of outside-of class student work.
Studio Art
ARTS 003. Visual Arts Exploration (4) A hands-on course is designed as an experiential studio/discussion course with emphasis upon acquiring practical skills and appreciation for the theoretical aspects of the creative process. This course includes explores two-dimensional and three-dimensional art forms such as drawing, painting, printmaking sculpture and ceramics.
ARTS 005. Drawing (3) A foundational level, hands–on course in drawing with an emphasis upon skill building and the visual and conceptual possibilities of art through drawing. A variety of projects and materials will be used investigate the medium’s history, traditional approaches and expressive possibilities.
ARTS 007. 2-D Design and Color (3) A foundational level, hands–on course introducing the theoretical application of the elements and principles of 2-D design and the practical applications of color theory. Exercises in visual thinking and the use of traditional principles of composition and two-dimensional media are emphasized through sequential, skill building projects.
ARTS 009. 3-D Design (3) A foundational level, hands–on course introducing the theory and principles of 3-D Design found in organic and man-made objects. Developing creative design solutions will be emphasized through observations of nature architecture, visual art, industrial design and sequential, skill building projects.
ARTS 011. Digital Photography (3) This course provides an introduction to the theory, process, and aesthetics of digital photography. Through a series of practical and conceptual assignments, students will learn to work with digital cameras and a selection of software for image editing and printing. Students must provide their own digital cameras with fully manual exposure controls. Approximately $150 should also be budgeted for personal photographic materials that are not supplied by the University. Additional lab fees will also apply.
ARTS 021. Life Drawing I (3) The primary emphasis is placed on the development of visual and perceptual skills relative to drawing the human body. Exercises in the anatomical, structural, formal and expressive factors of figure drawing are covered in this course. Prerequisites: ARTS 005.
ARTS 023. Painting I (3) A foundational level, hands–on course introducing the concepts, methods and materials of oil painting. Practical exercises in skill development, conceptual directions in art and personal imagery will be emphasized. Prerequisites: ARTS 005, ARTS 007.
ARTS 037. Sculpture (3) An introductory, hands-on course exploring the concepts and creative potential of sculpture. Through a sequence of applied assignments, a variety of media (clay, wood, plaster, metal, etc.) will be explored students will learn to use materials and tools to create sculpture.
ARTS 057. Watercolor Painting (3) Through demonstrations, readings, discussions and studio work this course introduces a variety of materials, techniques, traditions and contemporary uses of watercolor painting. A sequence of practical assignments incorporate aesthetic and conceptual development to build skill with the media and personal expression. Prerequisite: ARTS 005.
ARTS 059. Printmaking I (3) An introductory survey, hands–on course designed to examine and the historical and aesthetic development of the processes, materials and techniques of printmaking. A sequence of applied assignments incorporate the aesthetic and conceptual development to achieve basic mastery of the printmaking processes.
ARTS 073. Freshman Seminar (1) Freshman Seminar will introduce the student majoring in either Studio Art or Graphic Design to issues related to professional practice, philosophical direction, and the creative process in the visual arts.
ARTS 121. Life Drawing II (3) This course builds upon the experiences and skills achieved in Figure Drawing I. This course emphasizes personal expression and advanced drawing from the nude figure. Prerequisite: ARTS 021.
ARTS 123. Painting II (3) A studio course designed to build upon the experience and skills achieved in beginning drawing and painting. Instruction will focus upon problem solving using traditional and contemporary solutions and media. The development of personal style and expression is emphasized. Prerequisite: ARTS 005, ARTS 023.
ARTS 127. Illustration (3) A course designed to examine the historical and applied application of visual art for publication and mass media. A series of practical assignments investigate a variety of sub-themes routinely practiced by illustrators: advertising, editorial, scientific and book illustration. Prerequisites: ARTS 021, 023.
ARTS 133. 3-D Studio I (3)This course emphasizes intermediate skill building and conceptual development for three-dimensional art forms. Building upon foundational skills of ceramics and sculpture, Students explore contemporary trends, methods and materials applicable to 3-D studio practice. Prerequisite: ARTS 035 or ARTS 037.
ARTS 141. Photography II (3) An intermediate course that builds upon level one instruction in digital photography. This course introduces students to the photographic studio, with practical instruction in studio lighting theory and techniques and advanced camera and digital software applications for professional photographers creating photographs for editorial illustration, publication and exhibition. Laptop computer, preferably Mac, required. Prerequisite: ARTS 011.
ARTS 151. Printmaking II (3) An intermediate level course designed to emphasize mastery of a single process introduced in ARTS 059. Students are required to conduct historical, technical and aesthetic research to provide background and rigor to their investigation and completed work. Prerequisite: ARTS 059.
ARTS 181A. Interdisciplinary Studio (3) ARTS 181A and ARTS 181B is an advanced level studio course that focuses on the development of research skills and interdisciplinary practice in the arts. Anchored in the tradition of rigorous studio practices, and enhanced by innovative approaches to creative thinking and research, interdisciplinary studio offers a context for practicing art in the contemporary/multidisciplinary arts environment. Interdisciplinary studies of drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, and three-dimensional media are supported through close guidance and mentorship by art and design faculty. Junior standing or permission of instructor.
ARTS 181B. Interdisciplinary Studio 3 (3) ARTS 181A and ARTS 181B is an advanced level studio course that focuses on the development of research skills and interdisciplinary practice in the arts. Anchored in the tradition of rigorous studio practices, and enhanced by innovative approaches to creative thinking and research, interdisciplinary studio offers a context for practicing art in the contemporary/multidisciplinary arts environment. Interdisciplinary studies of drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, and three-dimensional media are supported through close guidance and mentorship by art and design faculty. Junior standing or permission of instructor.
ARTS 183. Professional Practices in the Arts (3) Level two of three courses preparing Bachelors and Bachelors of Fine Arts degree candidates for graduate study and/or entry level to a professional art career. This course requires involves reading/discussions, fieldtrips and practical assignments that emphasize professional identify, self-promotion, in addition to legal and business practices for artists. Prerequisite: ARTS 181 or permission of Instructor.
ARTS 185. Studio Art Capstone (4) This is the capstone course for the BFA in Studio Arts. This course involves intensive studio work in a chosen concentration and it includes research, critiques and fieldtrips that define the activities undertaken during this course. Emphasis is placed upon preparing a senior thesis and a senior exhibition. Prerequisites: ARTS 181 and 183.
ARTS 087, 187. Internship (2-4) Off-campus, non-classroom experience applying the studio arts in a professional context.
ARTS 089, 189. Practicum (2-4) On-campus, non-classroom experiences/projects related to discipline-specific studio arts.
ARTS 191. Independent Study (2-4) Enrolled by permission of the faculty only. Unless indicated, independent study courses may be counted only as electives. IS Contracts must be completed by student and faculty and approved by the department Chair.
ARTS 193. Special Topics (3-4)
ARTS 197. Undergraduate Research (3-4) Undergraduate research in studio art is conducted in consultation with a faculty adviser. It is designated to focus upon selected topics in the studio arts-related inquiries and advanced research in the field. Students undertaking this course must participate in the Pacific Undergraduate Research Conference (PURC) held each spring. Permission from Department Chair or supervising faculty.
Graphic Design
ARTS 075. Graphic Design I (3) A beginning, non-computer, studio course giving students a broad and thorough exposure to the practice and profession of Graphic Design. Prerequisites: ARTS 005 and 007 or permission of instructor.
ARTS 077. Graphic Design II (3) An intermediate level course that expands the skills and knowledge acquired in Graphic Design I. The course emphasizes practical assignments that examine applied problem solving and professional solutions for graphic designers. Specific themes/topics for the course include visual grouping and hierarchy, visual identity development and application of Gestalt theory. Prerequisite: ARTS 075 or permission of instructor.
ARTS 079. Typography I (3) This course provides an introduction to the study of the letterform as a cornerstone of graphic design. It focuses on how typography can be used as a communicative device as well as a graphic, compositional and expressive element. Areas explored include letterform anatomy, letterform analysis, measuring systems, typographic identification, and practical issues of setting and using type effectively. Prerequisite: ARTS 075 or permission of instructor.
ARTS 081. Typography II (3) Students enrolled in ARTS 081 will have the opportunity to apply the principles and concepts introduced in ARTS 079 to more complex typographic problems. Directions involving experimental and theoretical as well as practical and functional applications of type will be explored. Macintosh laptop computer is required. Lab fees apply. Prerequisite: ARTS 079 or permission of instructor.
ARTS 091. Print Media Graphics (3) This course explores graphic design for publication. Assignments examine and develop creative solutions for graphic design and methods of publishing in print utilizing software applications in graphic design and contemporary publishing. Prerequisite: ARTS 079 or Instructor's permission.
ARTS 095. Video I (3) Time Based Media: Video is an introductory level course teaching the construction of time-based visual narratives. Students will develop projects using camera generated images and time-based software applications. Assignments will focus on sequential storytelling, animation, video editing, and thematic development. Students must provide their own digital still cameras for this course. Approximately $100 should also be budgeted for other materials and equipment that are not supplied by the University.
ARTS 103. Graphic Production (3) This course examines methods and procedures of efficient production practices including typographic issues, image adjustment, digital file format preparation and related technologies for the graphic design student. Lab fees apply. Prerequisites: ARTS 077 and ARTS 091 or permission of instructor.
ARTS 105. Web Design (3) An intermediate level course for studio art and graphic design majors emphasizing the development of web sites for commercial applications and artists' portfolios. Emphasis is placed upon effective approaches to organization and design of web sites for self-promotion, employment and e-commerce. Prerequisites: ARTS 091.
ARTS 107. Video II (3) Video II is an advanced video course. Students will be assigned advanced and self-directed long-term projects, as well as learning more advanced software techniques for video editing. Approximately $100 should also be budgeted for other materials and equipment that are not supplied by the University. Prerequisites: ARTS 095.
ARTS 115. Animation (3) This course challenges the student to create interpretive design solutions for complex interactive problems, which rely primarily upon motion and time to communicate visual ideas. Students explore these highly conceptual problems through use of digital technology. Course emphasis is on dynamic, thoughtful, and appropriate visual communication solutions. Prerequisites: ARTS 011 and ARTS 091 or permission of instructor.
ARTS 171. Graphic Design III (3) This is an advanced level course with intensive involvement in project development. Emphasis is placed upon research and selecting design processes, client communication and professional presentation of work. Macintosh laptop computer required. Lab fees apply. Prerequisites: ARTS 077 and ARTS 081 or permission of instructor.
ARTS 173. Graphic Design Seminar (3) Open only to BFA majors in graphic design with junior standing. This is the first of two capstone courses emphasizing research in the field of graphic design. It is an advanced level course in project and portfolio development. Prerequisite: ARTS 171 or permission of instructor.
ARTS 175. Senior Graphic Design Seminar (4) Open only to BFA majors in graphic design with senior standing This capstone course emphasizes research in the field of graphic design, and completion of a senior presentation and exhibition. Prerequisite: ARTS 173 or permission of instructor.
ARTS 191. Independent Study (2-4) Enrolled by permission of the faculty only. Unless indicated, independent study courses may be counted only as electives. IS Contracts must be completed by student and faculty and approved by the department Chair. Prerequisites: Completion of foundations and upper division course work unless approved by Department Chair.
ARTS 087, 187. Internship (2-4) Off-campus, non-classroom experience that allows exposes a student to studio arts in a professional context. Emphasis is placed upon the development of attitudes and routines that lead significant portfolio development to support future employment or graduate opportunities. Prerequisites: Completion of foundations and upper division coursework
ARTS 089, 189. Practicum (2-4) On-campus, non-classroom experiences/projects related to graphic design. Prerequisites: Completion of foundations and upper division course work unless approved by Department Chair.
ARTS 193. Special Topics (3-4) The Department of Art and Graphic Design reserves the right to copy, document or hold student work in its archives for future program accreditation reviews. Student property left on the premises after the semester's end will be subject to disposal.
Undergraduate Research (2 - 4) Undergraduate research in graphic design is conducted in consultation with a faculty advisor. It is designated to focus upon selected topics in the field of graphic design-related inquiries and advanced research in the field. Students undertaking this course must participate in the Pacific Undergraduate Research Conference (PURC) held each spring. Prerequisites: permission from Department Chair or supervising faculty.