Studio Art Courses

FND101 Fundamentals of Art I
5 semester credit hours

The Fundamentals of Art is a year-long course that, together with Beginning Life Drawing, comprises the Foundations Program. This program introduces all students to the principles of drawing, design, composition, perspective, and color. FUND101covers theory and practice in design, linear and aerial perspective, form structure, organization of light and shadow, and texture. Students learn how to gather visual references, do thumbnail sketches, and develop their rough ideas to a final finished product, while gaining proficiency in the use of several black and white media.

FND102 Fundamentals of Art II
Prerequisite: Completion of FND101
5 semester credit hours

This course introduces students to color. They make a color wheel, learn color schemes, and create their own color compositions. They continue linear perspective study with exercises using 3-pt. perspective. They investigate patterns in nature and learn to identify and reproduce qualities of light and form. Students learn to evaluate their work in both written and oral formats.

LFD101 Beginning Life Drawing I
5 semester credit hours

This course introduces students to basic drawing concepts and traditional methods for achieving representational images of the human figure and other forms. The course consists of directed assignments and exercises, in black and white, that encourage the understanding of form, while increasing powers of observation and control of materials.

LFD102 Beginning Life Drawing II
Prerequisite: Completion of LFD101
5 semester credit hours

This course, as a continuation of the foundation drawing program, systematically covers the drawing basics while introducing anatomical and compositional thinking. Assignments are predominantly executed in black and white, while some color theory is introduced. Students also investigate working in a wet medium.

CGF201 Computer Graphics Foundations
Prerequisite: Completion of Foundation Studies
5 semester credit hours

This course is designed to offer students intensive hands-on training in Macintosh-based production methods while reinforcing developing graphic communication skills. Students should be able to come out of this class with a sense of confidence in their basic abilities on the Mac. This course consists of instruction in the basics of Macintosh operation as well as specific use of the software programs Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop and QuarkXpress. Each program will be explored in itself and as part of the larger picture of producing publications. Typography and graphic design, as they relate to print communications, will be explored as essential components in the effective use of the computer applications.

DES201 Introduction to 2-D Design
Prerequisite: Completion of Foundation Studies
5 semester credit hours

This course is designed to offer students an introduction and understanding of the strategies, technical elements and tools used by graphic designers to solve problems when communicating visually. Directed 2-D assignments, initially concentrating in black-and-white media, will allow students to learn discipline-specific information, deliver experience via hands-on practice and create an understanding of the history and principles of graphic design.

DES202 Intermediate 2-D Design
Prerequisite: DES201
5 semester credit hours

This intermediate design course consists of continuing instruction building on the basics of graphic design. Topics to be covered include 2-D and 3-D design problems, including the materials, principles and production techniques of graphic design. Building on the basic rules of typography, type will be used to solve increasingly complex problems. Projects include multi-page layouts, package design, and multi-disciplinary, integrated campaign related design.

DES300 Digital and Pre-press Production
Prerequisite: VCM201, DES202
5 semester credit hours

This course consists of instruction introducing digital and pre-press printing concerns. Topics will focus on the development of knowledge of the history of printing, ink and color models, manual and digital print production, technical aspects of printing and printing processes, working with service bureaus and printers, error reduction, estimating budgets, working with papers and other printing materials, types of printing equipment, working on-press and the proofing process. Field trips and visiting lecturers will be incorporated into this course.

DES305 Packaging Design
Prerequisite: Completion of EDS201, CGF201, DES202, VCM201
5 semester credit hours

This course provides an intensive examination of materials and processes as they relate to the manipulation of forms for packaging. Through understanding of the qualities inherent in various packaging materials, students will produce a variety of packaging solutions dealing with shape, form and volume. Analysis of three-dimensional form is stressed with strong emphasis being placed on logo-type design, package copy and typeface selection. Discussions will take place about materials (glass, metal, plastic, paper), printing methods and market research. Students will be involved in the development of package design from idea to finished product. This comprehensive studio stresses “good design” from initial concept through the printed piece and finally to point of purchase display in the marketplace. Appropriate thinking derived from research and understanding of the project allows students to produce finished pieces innovative in packaging development and accurate in terms of client goals. Comping skills will be sharpened by these experiences which will aid in the creation of packaging projects in the subsequent packaging course.

EDS201 Electronic Imaging
Prerequisite: Completion of Foundation Studies
5 semester credit hours

Students develop their illustrative and design skills utilizing digital imaging software. Electronic Imaging is explored through techniques and concepts such as: digital photography, collage, painting/drawing simulation, filter and imaging processing and special effects. In addition to studying digital imaging in depth through overview lectures and demonstrations, students will also be exposed to current trends and developments in the industry such as the internet, web pages, animation and digital video.

EDS204 2-D Computer Animation and Digital Video I
Prerequisite: Completion of CGF201, EDS201
5 semester credit hours

This course introduces the student to the techniques of two dimensional computer animation and digital video as they pertain to commercial and fine art applications. Through various projects, the student will explore aspects of 2-D computer animation such as cel (hand-drawn, character) title/credits (text-based), roto-scoping using video footage (character with live action), collage/cut-out, game (looping/repeated functions), "green screen", and Internet web page (animated logos, icons). The student will also create, edit and apply sound to their animation projects. All projects can be put onto videotape or written to compact disk for a completely electronically based portfolio. Software: AutoDesk Animator; Adobe After Effects; Adobe Premiere.

EDS301 Advanced Electronic Imaging
Prerequisite: Completion of CGF201 and EDS201 or permission of the department chair
5 semester credit hours

The content of this course will focus on applying use of 2-D imaging software. Students will create, manipulate, and modify 2-D objects and images. Software tools will allow for effects that stimulate and expand upon traditional imaging techniques as well as explore new effects that are unique to electronic-based systems. The course will emphasize the traditional art building blocks of color, shape, line, texture and composition to create imagery. Projects will cover a variety of illustrative and pseudo-photographic techniques. Scanned images, digital photographs, and stock photo CDs will be combined and manipulated to form compositions for both commercial and fine art applications. Realistic, representational imagery as well as abstract and experimental images will be explored. Various printing options will be reviewed, demonstrated and applied. Special effects software will also be used.

3DA302 Lighting Design for 3D Artists
Prerequisite: 3DA301
5 semester credit hours

This course offers further exploration of the scene lighting process in the 3D modeling and animation industry. Students will investigate artistic lighting ideology such as shadows, shading, reflections, color and atmosphere that bring 3D scenes and models to life. Basic 3D lighting principles will be examined from interior and exterior lighting setups to how to set up a scene for multiple lighting scenarios including day, sunset and night shots. Using tutorials, industry examples, and demonstrations assignments will be given that will cover direct lighting and dramatic effects, global illumination and photometric lighting tools. Rendering techniques and compositing options with respect to lighting in 3D will also be discussed

EDS304 2-D Animation and Digital Video II
Prerequisite: Completion of EDS204
5 semester credit hours

Students in this course expand upon the techniques learned in EDS 204, with added emphasis on longer form, experimental video and video for web pages. Students work on developing a “reel” or video portfolio.

3DA305 Introduction to Environmental Modeling
Prerequisite: 3DA301
5 semester credit hours

In this course students will be exposed to the creative process of researching, designing, planning, and the production of 3D environments. The class will take students through the process of creating environments with 3D Studio Max starting with the analysis of reference photographs and determining real world object dimensions. Students will learn how to spot visual cues that allow for quick and accurate determination of dimensions from these photographs, as well as how to build quick layout files for modeling and animation. Basic architectural design and modeling principles will be reviewed.

3DA306 Materials Creation and Mapping for 3D Artists
Prerequisite: 3DAS301
5 semester credit hours

This course offers further exploration of the materials creation and texture mapping process using industry standard software such as 3D Studio Max and Photoshop. Through a series of demonstrations, tutorials and related assignments students will gain an understanding of the techniques used to create beautiful and convincing textures. In addition to setting up lights, atmospheres, particle systems and cameras in building believable textures; students will also broaden their skills through an exposure to an array of painting techniques and methods that can be utilized in the creation of textures on multiple surfaces. Rendering techniques and compositing options with respect to materials and mapping in 3D will also be discussed.

3DA310 Advanced Environmental Modeling and Architectural Procedures
Prerequisite: 3DA305, 3DA306
5 semester credit hours

This advanced section of the 3D modeling courses is the second part of the introduction to environmental modeling class. In addition to continued creation of planned/designed environments (real world and fantasy); many artistic and technical challenges are addressed such as understanding perspective, modeling architecture, and creating environmental model textures. With successful completion of this course, students will have complete environmental projects for portfolio display.

3DA315 Character and Realistic Objects: Design and Modeling in 3D
Prerequisite: 3DA305, 3DA306
5 semester credit hours

This course covers intermediate 3D modeling concepts and strategies of character and product design. Focus is placed on both software modeling tools and artistic sculpturing talent for building organic 3D models. A variety of models will be covered during the course, with attention given to proper modeling techniques, modeling tips and tricks, and 3D character set-up for animation. The fundamentals of computer geometry are reviewed by looking at the basic elements that make computer models: Cartesian Space, points, curves, surfaces, nurbs, polygons and textures.

ILL201 Illustration I
Prerequisite: Completion of Foundation Studies
5 semester credit hours

Students concentrate on developing technical competence through instruction in several different media, beginning with pen & ink and marker rendering, then progressing to watercolor, acrylics, oils and other media. Frequent demonstrations and slide presentations assist students in visualizing creative solutions. Students learn to present ideas in a professional manner through reference gathering, both written and visual, thumbnail sketches, refinement of roughs, and presentation of finished comps and pencils. The importance of meeting deadlines is stressed throughout all assignments. Group critiques are held on a regular basis to encourage students to talk about their work in an articulate and confident manner.

ILL202 Illustration II
Prerequisite: Completion of ILL201
5 semester credit hours

In the second semester of Illustration, students prepare for the professional market. They begin by building on the skills developed in their first semester studies. Through vigorous application of several chosen media, they learn to strengthen weaknesses and gain greater insight into a unique personal style. Students are challenged by assignments based on jobs similar to those given in the professional arena such as advertising, book and editorial illustration. Knowledge of the Chicago market is stressed. The topics of job opportunities, business skills, self promotion and presentation of a portfolio are integrated into the course. By the end of the semester, students concentrate on designing and printing a self-promotional mailer and work on fine tuning illustrations for their portfolio. One of the most important goals in the class is to build a consistent portfolio that expresses each student’s interests and technical expertise.

ILL301 Illustration: Advertising Art
Prerequisite: Completion of ILL202 or consent of department chair
5 semester credit hours

With the instructor serving as art director, buyer or client, this course focuses on illustrative solutions based on art-directed layouts for advertisements done in a variety of sizes. Product development and illustrations for packaging, merchandise and poster design will be covered. Students work in the manner of the freelance illustrator; from contracts, to specific layouts, to realistic deadlines, through billing. In addition to the finished illustration, the working process and its technical products (finished pencils, color comps, corrections and changes) are equally important aspects of each assignment. Throughout, the student is encouraged to develop and work in an individual style and/or medium.

ILL302 Illustration: Editorial and Publishing Art
Prerequisite: Completion of ILL202 or consent of department chair
5 semester credit hours

With the instructor serving as art director and the student working in the manner of the freelance artist, this course concentrates on the creation of visual solutions in response to verbal discussions, written manuscripts, lyrics and stories. Beginning with sketches and developing the idea through to the final artwork, students render illustrations for magazine articles and covers, spot illustrations and book jackets for a variety of editorial and publishing venues. With a focus on storytelling and the primacy of the visual idea, students are encouraged to develop and work in an individual style and/or medium.

ILL304 Storyboarding
Prerequisite: Completion of ILL202 or consent of department chair
5 semester credit hours

Storyboards used as a visual script for movies and television commercials are an integral part of film making. This course introduces and refines students’ skills of conceptualizing, sequential storytelling, drawing and rendering required for effective storyboarding. This course also explores various techniques such as penciling, markers, animatics, computer composition and enhancement. Guest lecturers and field trips will compliment the material covered. Students will leave the course with the skills and portfolio samples that are utilized in the field.

ILL401 Traditional/Digital Illustration
Prerequisite: Must be taken in 7th or 8th semester of (full-time) program
5 semester credit hours

This course is designed to give Illustration majors review and reinforcement in traditional and digital illustration and design skills using Macintosh-based production methods. Students should come out of this class with a sense of confidence in their ability to integrate their illustration work into design projects that incorporate layout and typography. Typography and graphic design, as they relate to print communications, will be explored as an essential component in the effective use of the computer applications. Traditional as well as digital illustrations will be created and utilized for print publications as well as in a ‘digital’ slide show.

ILL402 Advanced Illustration
Prerequisite: Two of the following: ILL301, ILL302, ILL304, ILL305
5 semester credit hours

This course will focus on one final semester of traditional illustrative work done with each student's unique approach with media, style and technique. Students will personalize and strengthen their final professional portfolio. All projects will be handled as art-directed applications working either as a freelance illustrator or a staff artist both using realistic deadlines to complete their finished art. Everything done in this class will be "real world" print illustration. The student will concentrate on a more finalized completion of a working portfolio and will be working more independently on all assignments. There will be critiques during the concept stage and on the finished pieces. All assignments will remain deadline-oriented. This process will include the production of thumbnails, roughs, color comps, finished pencils, final art and computer design, including all typography.

ILL404 Fantasy and Comic Book Illustration
Prerequisite: Two of the following: ILL301, ILL 302, ILL304, ILL305
5 semester credit hours

This class will focus on all work done within this specific freelance world of illustration. Assignments will range from comic book pages and covers, science fiction and fantasy images through children’s book illustration. Work done in this class will reach towards building an additional or separate portfolio that meets the demands of this competitive growing market. Storytelling concepts and realistic illustrative techniques will be major goals of this class.

INTVCM Internship in Visual Communications
Prerequisite: Approval of Academic Dean
5 semester credit hours

“Real-world” experience can be very beneficial to learning and to giving students an advantage when they are beginning their job search. In this course, students work at a job in the field. An instructor monitors the progress and the quality of the learning experience. Since each internship opportunity is unique, the student must request approval from the Academic Dean, who reviews the request to be sure that the learning experience will be a complimentary addition to the student’s program of study.

MMW308 Web Design I
Prerequisite: CGF201, DES201, EDS201
5 semester credit hours

In this course students learn how to plan and create web sites for the Internet or worldwide web (WWW). They will be initiated in the use of several programming languages such as html (hypertext markup language), xhtml (extensible hypertext markup language), and CSS (Cascading Style Sheets). They will also begin to prepare and use text, graphics, sound, and video to create and implement web sites. Issues specific to the Internet and interactive design will be explored and touched upon including historic development, legal issues and social implications.

MMW309 Multimedia I: Interactive Multimedia
Prerequisite: CGF201, DES201, EDS201
5 semester credit hours

Interactive Graphics introduces interactive animations and the tools used to create exciting and complex user driven presentations. Using industry standard software the students will work their way through developing multimedia content including the use and control of typography, images, digital video, and animated graphics. The course emphasizes and develops the student’s ability and versatility with web oriented content and focuses on the industry leading development tools for such content.

MMW408 Web Design II
Prerequisite: MMW308, MMW309
5 semester credit hours

Students in MMW408 will develop their web design and web development skills related to integrating animated content and dynamic content into their web sites. This includes interacting with programming languages such as html, xhtml, CSS, JAVA script, Flash content, ASP(Active Server Pages), and PHP(Hypertext Preprocessor). This will give students the opportunity to focus on and develop their skills specifically in the areas of development and dynamic data base driven programming languages.

MMW409 Multimedia Scripting: Advanced Interactive Programming
Prerequisite: MMW309
5 semester credit hours

This course is developed specifically to look at advanced features and interactive animation techniques for programming ActionScipt in Flash. This will allow students to start developing complex content including multimedia players, custom interfaces, games, and object-oriented programming.

MMW410 Advanced Multimedia and Web Design Projects
Prerequisite: MMW408 or MMW409
5 semester credit hours

Within the context of a programming workshop, students produce web based projects addressing current leading edge theories, technologies and approaches to internet based media/medium. It offers advanced students the opportunity to explore advanced and experimental techniques in an environment that supports creative exploration. Students will discuss the underlying ethical and social issues at the forefront of this new medium. Course work includes independent and team oriented projects, seminar discussion, and a final culminating project.

MMW415 Multimedia Web Video: Interactive Media and Video Integration.
Prerequisite: EDS204, MMW308, MMW309
5 semester credit hours

In this course, students will integrate various content and media for presentation on the Web. Media, including digital video and digital audio, will be developed utilizing web publishing software presented online. Students will develop multimedia projects while addressing issues of content, organization, navigation and presentation. Throughout the course, students will discuss the underlying ethical and social issues at the forefront of this new medium. Course work includes team projects, lecture, and a final culminating project.

PIL400 Portfolio: Illustration (for all Illustration Areas of Study)
Prerequisite: Must be taken in final semester of BFA program
3 semester credit hours

The goal of this course is the final preparation for entry into the professional world. The development of a portfolio geared towards the area of study specialization will be strongly emphasized. The student will work under the guidance of faculty who will custom design the course objectives and appropriate projects. The student will exhibit selected artwork from the portfolio in the BFA exhibition.

PVC400 Portfolio: Visual Communications.
Prerequisite: Must be taken in final semester of BFA program
3 semester credit hours

This course is for students who will be graduating in Design, Multimedia/Web Design or 2-D and 3-D Animation/Digital Video programs. The goal of this course is the final preparation for entry into the professional world. The development of an exceptional body of work and/or portfolio geared towards the area of study specialization will be strongly emphasized.

VCM201 Visual Communications I
Prerequisite: DES201, CGF201
5 semester credit hours

This advanced design course consists of instruction building on the graphic design principles covered in DES201 and 202. Topics covered include review of graphic design (fundamentals of typography, gestalt, balance, color) and directed projects that contain integrated design solutions, emphasizing use of materials and options for execution. Some projects will incorporate a team-building component. Examples include business identity systems, layout and editorial design, and multi-faceted design projects (e.g., corporate reports, corporate media kits, convention/event design, etc.). Emphasis will be placed on using the computer as a tool in project execution.

VCM301 Visual Communications II
Prerequisite: DES202, GGF201
5 semester credit hours

This course is designed to offer studies in conceptual advertising. Directed assignments will allow students to learn discipline-specific information, deliver experience via hands-on practice and create an understanding of the history and principles of modern advertising design. Topics covered include an overview of the history of advertising design and directed projects focusing on developing concepts, art direction, layout skills, strategy and marketing research, and branding.

VCM401 Visual Communications III
Prerequisite: DES202, GGF201
5 semester credit hours

This course consists of instruction introducing environmental design concerns. Topics will focus on the development of 2-D and 3-D concepts and will incorporate model-building. Directed projects will focus on environmental graphics which may include trade show design, external environmental design, banners and signage, display kiosks, point-of-purchase displays and billboards. The computer will be used as one of the tools in the execution of projects.

LFD302 Life Drawing for Illustrators
Prerequisite: LFD201, OLP201
5 semester credit hours

This course teaches students how to deal with the sorts of problems faced by professional illustrators when working with the figure. The assignments and specific exercises will reflect the types of real world projects they might encounter in their professional careers.

The students will work in their chosen media from different models, either directly or with the aid of the camera. The emphasis is on storytelling, so gesture, composition, lighting, expression, and costume are very important. Students will also learn how to successfully work the figure into different design schemes with layouts that present unusual spaces, size restrictions, or special considerations due to the requirements of type.

Each project will be handled as if it were an actual illustration assignment. Students aare required to submit for approval pencil roughs, and color comps before taking project to finish. Deadlines for each step of the process will be realistic.

Throughout, the student is encouraged to develop and work in an individual style.

DRW401 Research in Drawing: Materials and Techniques
Prerequisite: Completion of 300-level drawing course
5 semester credit hours

In this course students are encouraged to develop their own individual expression through the selection and in-depth exploration of specific drawing media and processes. The course begins with a thorough investigation of how drawing has evolved within our culture and what the future possibilities of drawing might be. This is followed by weekly presentations of traditional and contemporary works focusing on technical process and underlying rationale. Students explore the relationship between materials and expression. Subject matter is open-choice. Students are encouraged to test their own voices and freely experiment with a variety of methods to develop their own individual style.

DRW402 The Figure In Composition
Prerequisite: Completion of DRW401
5 semester credit hours

Students are encouraged to create unified works of art through an in-depth study of the design potential of the figure. An historical look at the changing meaning of the figure as a compositional element during various significant artistic movements within the Western tradition provides students with a context for understanding those possibilities. Students explore spatial concepts and various compositional styles: narrative, expressionistic and symbolic. They research and analyze the many ways significant historical and contemporary artists have depicted the figure within a setting. Analysis of compositional forces, similarity and difference groupings, and weight and direction components are stressed. Students work through logistical problems inherent in multiple figure compositions. They learn to create more interesting and complex structure within their drawings through variation of repetitive and oppositional elements. Emphasis throughout the course is on development of a personal style and a unified body of work. Students are encouraged to test their ideas and keep an open mind regarding media.

LFD201 Intermediate Life Drawing I
Prerequisite: Completion of Foundation Studies
5 semester credit hours

This course builds on material presented in the foundation year, with a focus on structural and spatial thinking. Working from the live model, anatomical references, sketches, and memory, students re-examine fundamental drawing principles related to anatomy, perspective, design, and composition

LFD202 Intermediate Life Drawing II
Prerequisite: Completion of LFD201
5 semester credit hours

LFD202 is a study of the interaction of light and form through an understanding of optics, additive and subtractive color, temperature, saturation, value, opacity and transparency.

LFD301 Advanced Figure Drawing
Prerequisite: Completion of LFD202
5 semester credit hours

This course emphasizes in-depth study of the nude figure and its parts. Students produce life-size and large scale drawings, utilizing traditional drawing methods and techniques, to achieve higher levels of excellence in rendering ability.

LFD302 Figure in Composition
Prerequisite: Completion of LFD301
5 semester credit hours

In this course students create figurative compositions that explore spatial concepts and various compositional modes. They learn to work through the logistical problems of drawing multiple figures in interior and exterior settings. The Golden Section is studied for its historic and aesthetic significance, and other elements of design are analyzed for their impact on meaning.

LFD403 Advanced Drawing I
Prerequisite: LFD301, LFD302, DRW302 (two of three)
5 semester credit hours

This course serves as a bridge between teacher-directed classroom and student self-directed art projects. Students are guided toward individual expression and personal style through development of a thesis or statement describing their ideas and intentions in a cohesive body of work. Ongoing critique helps build intelligent and thoughtful dialogue through examination of the formal and thematic drawing issues involved.

LFD404 Advanced Drawing II
Prerequisite: LFD403
5 semester credit hours

This course is a continuation of Personal Style I and is similar in all aspects, but with an increased level of autonomy on the part of the student. At this level, the student is preparing for the BFA exhibit and much of the work will be directed towards that end.

OLP201 Oil Painting I
Prerequisite: Completion of Foundation Studies Program
5 semester credit hours

This course introduces students to Oil Painting and gives them a sound foundation in its use. Through direct painting and study from the model, students learn to see and skillfully use the basic principles of line, tone, color and composition in their work. The basic techniques of applying paint with brush and painting knife are fully explored. In addition to study in the studio classroom, outside assignments are given that help students to learn to use oil paint with confidence in a sound and creative way. Frequent and informative painting demonstrations and individual critiques, with personal guidance by the instructor, are an important part of this beginning oil painting course.

OLP202 Oil Painting II
Prerequisite: Completion of OLP201
5 semester credit hours

In this course, a more in-depth study of oil painting is undertaken by concentrating on the wide range of personal expression possible in depicting life and nature. Oil painting techniques from transparent oil glazes to heavy and opaque surface textures are studied.

OLP302 Figure Painting
Prerequisite: Completion of OLP202
5 semester credit hours

This class is designed to allow the student to continue the study of rendering the human figure in oil painting. In addition to th

PHO201 Introduction to Photographic Imaging
5 semester credit hours

The introductory photography class is designed to provide an understanding of photography through traditional techniques. Topics will focus on camera mechanics, exposure metering and calculation, film development, custom print processing and presentation. A brief history of film processes will also be covered. Students receive hands-on training in darkroom techniques through the completion of various creative projects. A medium-format camera, hand-held meter and tripod will be provided.

PHO202 Studio Lighting and Techniques
Prerequisite: PHO201 or by approval
5 semester credit hours

In this class the student will learn to control studio lighting through the use of strobe lighting systems and other controlled light sources. Demonstrations will include lighting techniques for small product, still-lifes and life models. Students will use softboxes, umbrellas and other reflectors, combined with bounce cards, scrims and flags to achieve the desired lighting. Flat art copying will also be covered. Students will learn the basic strategies and techniques through projects that aid in the development of compositional concepts. PREREQUISITE: PHO201, 202 or by prior approval.