"Design creates culture.
Culture shapes values.
Values determine the future."
- Robert L. Peters
course objectives
The focus of SA121 is on the practice and discipline of painting, its mediums and many issues and their evolution into the 21st century. Introductory level students will engage in painting and drawing applications that are informed, rigorously experienced and creatively articulated between concept and material manipulation. SA 121 presents the testing ground for students to pursue multiple investigative actions in the painting medium and its expressions, while providing the inquisitive, and supportive forum where curiosity and experimentation may take place. Emphasis on making and knowledge of material production enables each student to learn multiple operations of representation and abstraction to test their own independent painting expressions. The course provides a supportive framework to ask questions, bring materiality and form to individual ideas, while introducing methods in concept and studio expansion. As an introductory course SA121 has the additional advantage of being stacked with upper level painting students who have already familiarized themselves at the introductory level and wish to engage further in depth full study. The heterogeneous studio atmosphere has proven advantageous to both the introductory level and advanced students who share in one and other’s painting explorations.
Students will work throughout the semester learning and practicing observational painting techniques while discovering how the tradition artist creates and composes a painted field. It is the goal of this course to provide, in addition to the skill and knowledge necessary to make dynamic paintings, introduce students to the history of painting, its aesthetics and its current innovative practices. Each student is expected to build upon a good foundation of drawing, design and color theory, with interest in the craft of materials, and the challenge to creatively express one’s ideas through activity, research and study.
An understanding of the principals and formal elements is fundamental to the making and interpretation of all visual concepts. SA121 is a course that provides students with the formal, technical, historical and critical analytical skills to investigate concepts in practice that builds upon individual ideas necessary in visual literacy refinement while expanding painting methodologies. Students will become familiar with the many design applications and techniques painting has to offer that often reveal an attitude about the culture it comes from, allowing for dialogue to arise and content and meaning to be derived and driven further. As responsive and responsible image-makers, students will practice in situating work, technique, concept and discipline, both historical and contemporary, within frameworks through use of an acquired formal language of the visual arts.
Students are presented with a number of experimental assignments to examine relationships between idea and form, material and space, process and technique. Students will address the complexities between discourse and making, representation and translation, materiality and space and engage in a mode of critical research.
Material engagement and material thinking will connect students directly to studio practice, research, critical dialogue, reading, writing and auditory practices. It is our goal of the Studio Art program that students develop articulations in the reading of images and texts, develop a responsibility as image-makers and interpreters, become aware of visual systems of different cultures and time periods, while gaining the ability to ask critical questions, think and respond as informed learners.
It is intended that students of SA 121 continue to refine their visual and thinking skills that go hand-in-hand in the art-making process. Students will become familiar with art historical and contemporary practices, artists and concepts throughout the course.
working methods
Students will observe, invent, research, and design painting projects from a variety of structural conditions. Beginning with monochromatic paintings, students will begin to develop a basic understanding of the painting medium; intensity and saturation of hue, value and scales to full palette color theory practices. Each project will offer an opportunity to integrate and explore concepts while developing technical skills pertinent to contemporary art practices. Experience in learning traditional and innovative techniques of acrylic paint including glazing, impasto, alla prima, plein air, grounds, various paint surfaces (canvas, paper, wooden panel, metal, Plexiglas and other found materials), etc. Historical painters and contemporary artists will be referenced via slides, books, periodicals, electronically (ARTstor database in the Library) on a weekly basis. Frequent slide presentations, readings, writing, class discussion and critique will introduce a variety of interpretations of how artists have perceived and used visual concepts and elements in their own interpretations.
specifics
Research of a variety of artists, both traditional and contemporary, will be indicated as supportive material and exhibited in student sketchbooks. Minimum of 5 observed paintings weekly will be evidence of on-going study beyond the studio. This engagement of research will be deposited regularly into student sketchbooks. In attrition, students will be involved in minor multi-media presentations of artists and more complex comparative analysis study.
Evidence of excellent work habits that continues to evolve throughout the semester, growth, effort, and engagement in all studio practices is expected.
The instructor is not obligated to repeat a demonstration or presentation.
More than 3 absences will result in lowering the final grade by one letter, if not being advised to withdrawal from the class.
In the case of suspected flu or other illness, contact instructor prior, or immediately following the absence to avoid an unexcused absence. Contrary to what upper class students might have you believe, there are not “three” automatic, excused absences in any class across campus.
keep with the AP's
attention to class activities; Students are responsible for all information covered in class, including this syllabus. Take copious notes! No cell phone use during class, no email/surfing unless required for a specific project. Keep your cell on vibrate.
ask for help when needed, inform the instructor at the beginning of the course about any special needs or concerns, such as health issues or athletics. If you have an issue with the course or instructor, contact instructor first to begin resolution process.
assignments connecting themes across courses, and building on previous work is encouraged. Any assignments submitted for other classes cannot be used for credit in this class. Consult the instructor if you have questions. Students must cite sources for all images and text used in all assignments.
present your work on time and in a professional manner. Work not presented at the beginning of class will be deemed late–late work is work that will be accepted up to one week after the due date but will be graded 50% less than otherwise earned. Incomplete projects are considered late until all parts are submitted in a completed manner.
participate in discussions, review sessions’ work before hand and involve yourself in studio clean up . Your opinions, experience, and help are essential to your fellow students. Communication and critical analysis skills are required to advance in your profession. Serious involvement makes for a dynamic class situation.
Bring ideas and speculation to the table!
practice & persist It is expected throughout all campus courses that each hour dedicated in class = one hour outside work per week.
Thus, 6 hours in = 6 hours out on a weekly basis.
6 x 14 weeks in class + 6 x 14 weeks outside of class = 168 hours
project statements
Thinking, creating and writing go hand in hand in studio practice. Writing is another way of investigating one’s expressive voice and translating the visual into new textual language. Research is an expectation of all design students. Students will be asked to write a number of project statements following completion of some studio assignments. Student writings will be incorporated into each assignment grade. Students are to integrate research, readings, and discussion with their working thoughts and practices. In all papers, cite specific connections made between studio practice theoretical readings research, as well as present a properly written bibliography. Each statement is a minimum of two typed pages.
class policy
The atmosphere throughout this course is to create a community of active learners.
We need to create a safe space where individuals can interject their ideas even if they may not be reflective of others. Our space needs to be one where people are encouraged to take risks, and not worry if they don’t have the ‘right’ answer, and have the space to take a wild guess by connecting earlier information together.
We need to realize that world experience produces difference in all people.
Our differences often make communication and understanding difficult to comprehend, or even agree with, when considering the ideas of others.
Each of us need to remain an active participant in the world of learning.
The course asks each of us to cultivate a relationship of mutual respect between each other and the work at large, your faculty and guests. It is my hope that this respect may extend outside the walls of this community into the world in general.
The key is to listen and be considerate of each other.
progress + development
A student cannot rest on previous skills alone!
Students must show a willingness to explore and welcome the opportunity to take risks by:
> Demonstrate an understanding of concepts being emphasized and techniques.
> Understand vocabulary and use it effectively in discussion, in your sketch books, in multi media presentations and in your written papers.
> Sustain a conscious and serious effort.
Students need to use class time effectively and develop variations even if one might think they have “completed” an assignment effectively.
> Develop and continue to cultivate self motivation!
It is expected that one hour of studio work in class is equal to one hour of class work outside of class contact hours.
This course meets for a semester total of 84 in class hours.
attendance policy
Attendance and punctuality are absolutely mandatory and are significant components of your commitment to your work. It is impossible to learn if you are not here!
Students are to attend class every day and be prepared with materials, assignments, readings and papers always! We have a lot of material to cover this semester; missing one class will impact on your ability to do well in this course.
Absences will adversely affect your final grade.
Once you have accumulated 4 absences you will not be successful to complete the course and may be asked to withdraw.
Tardiness and absences will greatly hinder student progress in this course. Students who miss class, in an extreme case, are responsible for notifying faculty prior to class start time. If a student knows they will be absent, make arrangements with the instructor as soon as you are able to find out what you will/or will have missed. Students who are absent from a class are expected to be prepared with ALL assignments and readings due at the next class meeting.
All assignments are to be completed in a thoughtful and timely manner.
This responsibility is yours.
evaluation + grading
Students should set high standards for their own work.
Although process is an essential component of the studio a legible, refined and thoughtfully crafted representation is the expected outcome of every work.
Informed speculation and experimentation are encouraged.
Students should be able to explain the conceptual ideas underlying their work, which formal principles are being employed and be able to question and incorporate suggestions offered in critique.
Intellectual understanding and exploration of the readings and projects, ability to initiate research, and individual drive throughout each project are significant factors in grading a student’s level of participation.
Hard work and improvement are recognized. In addition to completing exquisitely crafted projects, engaged work and participation will positively impact a student’s grade.
Lack of preparation, disengagement from his/her work, avoidance of critiques, lack of participation in discussion, incomplete and not prepared work will result in a lower grade. Should a student be performing below an adequate level, the student will be notified as soon as it is evident and a meeting will be scheduled to address deficiencies.
methods of evaluation
Ongoing participation in class and with studio projects = 70% of final grade
The overall quality of student work is directly reflective on one’s involvement with the class and outside studio practice. Strong participation will naturally impact student development and therefore, grade positively. These are both the minor projects that emphasize development of fundamental design principles, methods explorations and media advancement, and the final major project at the semester’s conclusion. Reworking of a project after the initial critique will be allowed at the discretion of the instructor. Student work is graded on imagination, originality, concept, process, understanding and implementation of design principles, craftsmanship and a successful solution to the problem given.
The "safe way" is not the best way in visual production, taking risks and experimentation are vital in keeping one’s work fresh and exciting. Incomplete projects will receive an F.
The Sketchbook / Journal = 20%
Ongoing work in student journals/sketchbooks include >
- Take thorough notes in and out of class.
- Each concept introduced requires a minimum of 2 found visual entries, deconstructed by the formal elements of design*. See Visual Deconstruction post
- Develop thumbnail and sketches of a concepts introduction.
- Continue to use as a depository for all of your research notes.
- Other activities outlined by the instructor.
- Bring to class each day.
Multi media presentations + research papers = 10% of final grade
Research is an expectation of all students. At different points in the semester, students will be assigned a specific research topic that will be compiled electronically and delivered to the class. A formal research paper will accompany the presentation that illustrates thorough research practices and information on the selected subject.
undergraduate grading policy
Grades calculated in grade point average (GPAs) + numerical scale
A = 4.0 A- = 3.67
B+ = 3.33 B = 3.00 B- = 2.67
C+ = 2.33 C = 2.00 C- = 1.67
D+ = 1.33 D = 1.00 F = 0.00
A 93 – 100% A- 90 – 92%B+ 87 – 89% B 83 – 86% B- 80 – 82%C+ 77 – 79% C 73 – 76% C- 70 – 72%D+ 67 – 69% D 63 – 66% D- 60 – 62% F below 60%
standards for grading
A = exceeding: The typical "A" student will consistently follow all of the steps in the creative process, resulting in work that is beyond the students’ previous technical, conceptual and expressive capabilities. Equally important, the A student will conduct research, integrate information from other classes and experiences, follow through on ideas, not opt for an easy way out, will hand in work on time and in a well presented manner, will participate fully in class, ask questions and do extra work when needed in the pursuit of knowledge and greater ability. The work produced is exemplary and sets a benchmark for other students; actively participating in class discussions and critiques with a sustained high level of curiosity. In short, the A student will be a responsible and active learner throughout. Superior work.
B = meeting : Attend all classes and complete all assignments on time; follow all instructions, demonstrate above average skills and creativity in completing assignments, turn in consistently good work though some further development of knowledge and skills is possible; frequently contribute to discussions and critiques. Good work.
C = approaching: Have less than perfect attendance; complete all assignments with average skills, attitude and creativity demonstrating limited commitment to the learning process, average use of materials, and ideas that need further development. Occasionally contribute to class discussions and critiques. Satisfactory work.
D = not meeting: Have poor attendance; seldom meet deadlines, have an unconcerned attitude, has less than adequate performance; contribute very little to class discussions and critiques. Barely passing.
F: Have poor attendance; seldom meet deadlines; turn in poor work; have a bad attitude, and/or impervious to the learning process.
special needs students
Notify the instructor if you are a student who requires accommodations in classroom studio or outside work due to special needs. Appropriate accommodations will be made in cooperation with the Office of Special Services @ 315-655-7170
academic honesty policy
Plagiarism will not be tolerated. Any student who turns in plagiarized work will fail the course and be possibly dismissed from the college. A description of plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty are to be found in the on-line Student Handbook @ www.cazenovia.edu
