School of Visual Arts

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Overview

The School of Visual Arts (SOVA) offers studio-based programs in the visual arts balanced with the study of the history, theory, and criticism of visual and material culture. The faculty includes both practicing artists and scholars of art history. The School emphasizes new digital media as well as traditional artistic media. SOVA offers a B.F.A. degree with concentrations in Graphic Design, Creative Technologies and Studio Arts; a B.A. in Art History and Visual Culture, a minor in Art History and a minor in Visual Arts.

SOVA provides a variety of exhibitions and art events. The Armory Art Gallery exhibits work by national and regional artists and provides students and regional artists the opportunity to create and show wide-ranging experimental work. The Collaboration for Creative Technologies in Arts and Design (CCTAD) is a cross-disciplinary initiative with Art, Music, Computer Science and Communications. The Digital Arts and Animation Studio (DAAS) is designed to facilitate this new concentration.

FourDesign, a University Service Center, provides students with vital professional design experience. Student interns work in a team environment under the direction of FourDesign faculty to produce design work for clients, providing professional and entrepreneurial experience rarely available to undergraduates. Through visiting artists and scholars, the School also brings students and members of the art community into dialogue with artists and critics of international prominence.

SOVA participates in the University's Education Abroad program, which is open to students at the sophomore level or above and combines classroom study with travel-study tours in Europe, Cuba, and Latin America.

Foundations of Art and Design is a year-long, entry-level intensive program that prepares students for advanced study in the visual fields of integrative Studio Art, Creative Technologies and Graphic Design. The two-semester, 1000-level curriculum is made up of 15 credit hours covering principles of art and design, drawing, and digital imaging proficiency. Completion of the entire Foundation program is required of B.F.A. students prior to taking SOVA courses that are 2000 level or higher.

The investigation and unification of dexterity, contextual dialogue, and presentation skills are at the heart of the Foundations of Art and Design program at SOVA. Rather than isolating craft at the foundational level of study, whole elements of visual language are fostered equally. This unified approach to art and design studies aim to develop:

• Innovation and creative leadership skills
• Visual logic through multimedia
• Confidence with digital and analog crossover
• Traditional awareness applicable to contemporary tools of production

Portfolio Review

Students must pass the annual Portfolio Review in order to enter the B.F.A. programs in Studio Art, Creative Technologies, or Graphic Design. The SOVA Foundations of Art and Design curriculum supplies students with the necessary information and proficiency to compete in Portfolio Review.

Studio Art, Creative Technologies, and Graphic Design candidates must be currently enrolled or have passed three foundation courses (ART1204 Principles of Art and Design, ART1404 Drawing 1 and ART1604 Principles of New Media). Acceptance is contingent on successfully passing all three of these courses. The Studio Art, Creative Technologies, and Graphic Design review committees (comprised of SOVA Faculty) screen student work for outstanding qualities in artistic ability, creativity, presentation skills and overall motivation.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art

The SOVA Studio Art program offers classes in painting, drawing, sculpture, and photography. We aim to prepare artists for the digitally enhanced world by integrating emerging technologies into a contemporary fine arts experience. Our students have access to cutting edge technologies like laser cutters, CNC routers and 3D printers, and are taught in an environment that encourages them to explore these tools in conjunction with traditional mediums. Students and faculty conduct research and create work that spans disciplinary boundaries. Our flexible undergraduate curriculum provides opportunities for students to achieve interdisciplinary breadth through electives in Graphic Design, Creative Technologies, and other areas of personal interest.

Situated within a nationally recognized research institution, SOVA attracts students and faculty who value the study of art in a broad cultural and intellectual context. The B.F.A. degree in Studio Art equips emerging artists with critical thinking skills, visual and cultural literacy, and tools to communicate their ideas. We also promote the professional skills and habits necessary to build and sustain a self-directed studio practice. Our program is uniquely positioned to provide students with the skills and opportunities to explore the impact of art and technology on our lived experience.

Graduates of the Studio Art program apply their creative skills in a variety of careers. Some become professional artists, exhibiting at national galleries and museums, or pursue commercial careers in photography, painting, illustration, and sculpture. Others seek their Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in specific studio disciplines or post-graduate degrees in related arts fields such as Material Culture, Art Therapy, Art Education, Exhibition Design, and Art Conservation. Our alumni have gone on to become professional artists, university professors, K-12 teachers, and pursue careers in galleries and museums.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Studio Arts is a 78 credit-hour program. Each faculty member is dedicated to teaching, research, and outreach within his or her specific fields. The connection from professional practice to studio classroom is essential in creating applicable learning environments.

The goal of the program is to develop culture-enriching leaders and innovative visual artists. Completing an integrated path of study in the Studio Arts program will result in a B.F.A. degree that is applicable to the demands of the visual arts industry.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Technologies

The Creative Technologies program focuses on computer-based digital arts, including animation, creative coding, interactive installations, etc. Classes are taught by active artists and scholars with experience integrating emerging creative technologies into new media art contexts as well as applications in industry.

The Creative Technologies concentration consists of 75 credit hours, with 21 required credits and additional elective offerings that can be clustered so that students obtain specialization in immersive virtual environments, code and form or the moving image.

In the Creative Technologies program, students learn cutting-edge software in a creative environment, preparing them for employment in industry or further studies in graduate school.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design

The Graphic Design program is notable for its practical and applied approach to design pedagogy. Students concentrating in Graphic Design develop conceptual abilities, problem solving skills and technical know-how required by a fast-paced, competitive field. Graphic Design demands individual creativity, teamwork skills, and adaptability to changing markets and technologies. The Graphic Design program at Virginia Tech prepares students for the job market with practical experience and a full, professional portfolio. Graduates of the program may find themselves working in print design, product and packaging design, multimedia web page design, and advertising design. Coursework in 3D animation and interactive design allows students to explore emerging design technologies.

Entry into this program is restricted and requires successful completion of specific criteria. See Portfolio Review above. Students accepted into Graphic Design begin the course sequence in the spring semester. From that point on, the course sequences are uniquely tailored to Graphic Design students.

Bachelor of Arts in Art History and Visual Culture

This program is oriented toward the history of western art, although courses are frequently offered on non-western topics. The foundation for the study of art history in SOVA is a two-semester survey of the history of art. At the intermediate level, there are fourteen courses offered on a regular basis, ranging from ancient Egyptian art and architecture to Art Since 1900, and including archaeology, arts of China and Japan, and the history of graphic design. Upper-level courses are designated as special topics courses. In recent years, they have ranged from the Seven Wonders of the World to Japanese prints to the History of Photography to the Preservation of Historic Interiors.

The major in Art History and Visual Culture is a 42-credit degree. In addition to the two semester Survey of the History of Art (2385-86), students are required to take five courses at the 3000-level. The five courses are chosen from a list of four historical categories, ensuring students study art and architectural history over a broad historical range. In addition, majors are required to take Topics in Criticism and Methodology (Art 4484) and three upper-level topics classes (Art 4384).

To provide a broader context for the history of art, majors are also required to take a history course and a humanities course (focusing on broad cultural and historical periods). To ensure some 'hands on' experience, they are also required to take either Art 1204 (Principles of Art and Design) or Art 1404 (Basic Drawing). The program encourages students to take advantage of opportunities to study abroad and to serve as interns in cultural organizations, especially museums and historical sites.

Minor in Art History

The minor in art history is an 18-credit degree. It consists of the two-semester Survey of the History of Art (Art 2385-86) and two courses at the 3000-level and two at the 4000-level.

Visual Arts Minor

Hosted by the School of Visual Arts with collaboration from numerous departments across Virginia Tech, the interdisciplinary Visual Arts Minor leads students to explore art as a lens through which to view society. It encourages the cultivation of visual intelligence—through both study and practice-based approaches in studio art—relevant to our increasingly visual, media-saturated world and demanded in a variety of STEM and humanities fields. Students learn flexible visual skills and how to apply them to multiple disciplines inside and outside their major, such as business, medicine, law, and the natural sciences. The result is a comprehensive understanding of art and the built environment in a global context, as they intersect with the complexities of historical and contemporary society.

Requirements for the Minor include four core courses—ART 1104, ART 1004, ART 2385/6, ART 4104—and two elective courses in the social sciences, totaling 18 credit hours.

Degree Requirements

The graduation requirements in effect at the time of graduation apply. When choosing the degree requirements information, always choose the year of expected date of graduation. Requirements for graduation are referred to via publications as "Check sheets". The number of credit hours required for degree completion varies among curricula. Students must satisfactorily complete all requirements and university obligations for degree completion.

The Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University reserves the right to modify requirements in a degree program. However, the University will not alter degree requirements less than two years from the expected graduation year unless there is a transition plan for students already in the degree program.

Please visit the University Registrar website at http://registrar.vt.edu/graduation-multi-brief/index1.html for degree requirements.

Undergraduate Course Descriptions (ART)

1004: TOPICS IN STUDIO ART FOR NON-MAJORS
Variable introductory topics on practice-based studio art, ranging from 2D, 3D and Digital Imaging concentrations. Multiple projects with emphasis on media specific creations using introductory studio practices, practice-based technical and conceptual knowledge to achieve expressive communication. Analyze and critique creative works within historical and cultural context. May be repeated with different topics, for a maximum of 12 credit hours. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. (1H,5L,3C)

1104: LANGUAGE OF VISUAL ARTS
Introduces key formal structures across the broad variety of disciplines in the visual arts and built environment, including: architecture, painting, sculpture, photography, and film. Considers global objects and sites from an intercultural perspective, examining how various formal elements impact our experience and function to construct meaning for audiences. Writing informed arts criticism grounded in local and regional cultural resources. RESOURCE CHARGE. (3H,3C)

1114: PLAY TO MAKE-MATERIALS, TOOLS, PROCESSES-CREATIVE TECHNOLOGIES+EXPERIENCES
Transdisciplinary practice in an inclusive, collaborative environment, through the lens of creative technologies and experiences, to describe and evaluate the convergence between art, technology, and human experience in the arts, sciences, humanities, and engineering. Exploration of play for creation of ideas and artifacts (including, but not restricted to multimedia narratives, learning simulations, immersive/performative experiences, and data exploration). Inclusive collaboration with peers and practicing professionals in diverse fields. Critical consideration of creative technologies and the impacts on history, society, cultures, individuals, and communities. Collaborative research, design, creation, and exhibition of a transdisciplinary project to identify and address a global challenge. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L, 1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L, 1C). (1H,5L,3C)

1204: PRINCIPLES OF ART & DESIGN I
Introduction of two-dimensional principles of design through employment of traditional and digital media. Reference to historical and theoretical context strengthens proficiency in the language of design. Application of contemporary practices and ethics. Projects, applied problem solving, reading assignments and critiques supply graphic skills and specialized vocabulary. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. (1H,5L,3C)

1214: PRINCIPLES OF ART & DESIGN II
Introduction of two-dimensional principles of design through employment of traditional and digital media. Reference to historical and theoretical context strengthens proficiency in the language of design. Application of contemporary practices and ethics. Projects, applied problem solving, reading assignments and critiques supply graphic skills and specialized vocabulary. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: 1204, 1404. (1H,5L,3C)

1234: TOPICS IN VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN FOR NON-MAJORS
Variable introductory topics on visual communication design, ranging from contemporary issues in design to development of formal design skills. Multiple projects with emphasis on problem-solving with an awareness of target audiences from various backgrounds, historical and cultural contexts, and STEEP (Social, Technological, Economical, Environmental, and Political) principles. Explores knowledge of design principles and vocabulary using a range of materials and methodologies. Examines needs of diverse users, applied via digital translations and appropriate software. May be repeated for up to a maximum of 12 credit hours with varying or different topics. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). (1H,5L,3C)

1304: GATEWAY TO ART AND DESIGN
First Year Experience course for students seeking entry into BFA degree program. Developing a successful path of study in the School of Visual Arts BFA degree using advising resources; introduction to professional and ethical visual arts practices through presentations with local and regional artists; visits to local and regional galleries; presentations by university faculty and staff related to the BFA. Introduction to visual thinking using the Virginia Tech Common Book and preparation for portfolio review. Art History majors are not required to take the course. Co: 1204, 1604, 1404. (1H,1C)

1404: DRAWING I
Methods and concepts fundamental to drawing, for the beginning student. No previous experience necessary. Emphasis on controlled use of common drawing media for representational and expressive purposes. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. (1H,5L,3C)

1414: DRAWING II: LIFE DRAWING
Drawing the human figure from life. Emphasis on observation, construction, and anatomy. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: 1404, 1204, 1604. (1H,5L,3C)

1604: PRINCIPLES OF NEW MEDIA ART & DESIGN
Introduces the student to the concept of new media through the research and development of contemporary art and design. The creative and aesthetic potential of the computer will be explored to produce new media product. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. (1H,5L,3C)

1614: PRINCIPLES OF VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN
Introduction to design theory, practice, and visual communication skills. Projects, applied problem solving, reading assignments, and open critiques incorporate graphic competencies and vocabulary specific to the field of visual communication design. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). Pre: 1204, 1404, 1604. (1H,5L,3C)

1984: SPECIAL STUDY
Variable credit course.

2385,2386: SURVEY OF THE HISTORY OF WESTERN ART
Survey of the visual arts and architecture from prehistoric times to the present day with emphasis on Western Europe including functions of visual arts and architecture, terms of visual literacy and methods of formal visual analysis. 2385: Focus on prehistoric time to the thirteenth century including Paleolithic, Neolithic, Ancient Near Eastern, Egyptian, Aegean, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, medieval and early Gothic art. 2386: Focus on late Gothic through present day including Renaissance, Baroque, 19th (Romanticism to Post-Impressionism) and 20th centuries (cubism to postmodernism). (3H,3C)

2514: DRAWING CONCEPTS
Exploration of drawing practices that reflect expansions in the discipline through examination of the work of contemporary artists and discussion of recent historical precedents. Examination of multiple viewpoints through readings and discussion investigating notions of identity, culture, and social reality. Development of personalized visual language and content through iterative drawing processes. Application of formal analysis and interpretive strategies through critique. Includes traditional and experimental techniques; representational, abstract, and nonobjective approaches to drawing. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: 1414. (1H,5L,3C)

2524: INTRODUCTION TO PAINTING
Students will explore painting practices and their relationship to art and design in contemporary culture, and develop basic painting skills and an understanding of various painting media. Encompasses illustrational technique and practical applications, expressive and abstract approaches to painting. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: 1204, 1404, 1604. (1H,5L,3C)

2544: CERAMICS I
Basic investigations into the materials, techniques, history and appreciation of the ceramic arts. Ceramic processes and technology including hand forming construction methods, glazing, and kiln firing. Design concepts as they relate to clay objects are stressed. Historic and contemporary ceramics objects along with methods and traditions of cultures from around the world will be introduced through a range of media. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: 1204, 1404, (1604 or 1504). (1H,5L,3C)

2554: INTRODUCTION TO SCULPTURE
An introduction to sculptural processes and materials in art and design. Intensive studio work on individual projects. Review of historical and contemporary issues as applied to the definition of space, texture, mass, volume, scale and other principles of three-dimensional art. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: (1204, 1404), 1604. (1H,5L,3C)

2565-2566: TYPOGRAPHY
Foundational study of Typography as it relates to Visual Communication Design including historical and contemporary context. Study of the formal principles of typographic design of both printed and digital matter. Overall focus on letterforms, design structures, and grid systems. Pre: Admittance to Visual Communication Design Program. 2566: Intermediate study of Typography as it relates to Visual Communication Design including advanced file management used with a variety of projects involving Typographic Composition. Pre: 2565. 2565: I, II. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). (1H,5L,3C)

2565H-2566H: TYPOGRAPHY
Intermediate study of Typography as it relates to Visual Communication Design including advanced file management used with a variety of projects involving Typographic Composition. (1H,5L,3C)

2575-2576: INTRODUCTION TO GRAPHIC DESIGN
Introduction to the theory and practice of graphic design as a means of visual communication, exploring problem-solving as applied to design concepts and execution. Studio assignments relating to society, industry, community, and commerce, with emphasis on digital/electronic applications. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: 1604, 1204, 1404 for 2575; 2575 for 2576. Co: 1414 for 2575. (1H,5L,3C)

2604: INTRO TO NEW MEDIA ART
An introduction to digital time-based technologies to develop new media products including, stop-motion videos, 2D animations and interactive projects for delivery on the Internet. Aesthetic ideas and concepts of new media art will be examined. RESOURCE CHARGE Pre: 1604. (1H,5L,3C)

2644: CERAMICS II
Introduction to forming methods using the potter’s wheel. Design concepts, techniques and approaches to creating functional forms. Overview of contemporary and historic utilitarian ceramics. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: 2544. (1H,5L,3C)

2664: DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Concepts, terminology, and skills in digital photography. Discover and utilize the appropriate techniques for camera control, exposing techniques, image manipulation and approaches to output options. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). Each student MUST own a digital SLR camera. RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: 1604. (1H,5L,3C)

2704: 3D COMPUTER ANIMATION
ntroduction to the basic principles of 3d-computer animation including modeling, texture mapping, lighting, and motion. Course contact to credit hour structure: Design Lab/Studio (5L, 3C) RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: 1204, 1404, 1604. (5L,3C)

2964: FIELD STUDY
Pass/Fail only. Variable credit course.

2974: INDEPENDENT STUDY
Variable credit course.

2984: SPECIAL STUDY
Variable credit course.

3004: TOPICS IN ART HISTORY
Rotating topics from all periods of art history with a particular emphasis on non-Western art, such as Japanese, Chinese, pre-Columbian, sub-Saharan, Native American, or Islamic art and architecture. Lecture and/or undergraduate seminar format. May be repeated for credit with different content for a maximum of 9 credits. Pre: 2385 or 2386. (3H,3C)

3054: ISLAMIC ART AND ARCHITECTURE
Survey of the visual arts and material culture produced in Islamic cultures from its origins in the 7th century CE (Common Era) through the contemporary period. Focus on analyzing transnational exchanges and influences that shape the visual and material culture of Islamic regions including architecture, the graphic arts, painting, ceramics, and textiles within cultural, geographic, political, and religious contexts. Includes artifacts and architecture from Iraq, Iran, the Arabian Peninsula, Egypt, Turkey, India, Spain and notable sites from North Africa and Central Asia. (3H,3C)

3064: ARTS OF CHINA AND JAPAN
An introduction to Chinese and Japanese art from the Neolithic to the present. The influence of philosophy, religion and social organizations on the development of the visual arts in China and Japan. Considers a range of media including painting, sculpture, calligraphy, ceramics, prints, and architecture in contexts of Imperial and post-Imperial patronage. (3H,3C)

3074: EGYPTIAN ART AND ARCHITECTURE
Introduction to Egyptian art and architecture from the Predynastic through the Late Period with emphasis on the major monuments of Egyptian sculpture, painting and architecture. Emphasis on Egyptian art in the context of the unique landscape of the Nile River and surrounding desert, the art of contemporary cultures in the eastern Mediterranean world, and the history of archaeological exploration within the region. (3H,3C)

3084: GREEK ART AND ARCHITECTURE
Painting, sculpture, and architecture of the Greeks, ca. 1000-31 B.C. Emphasis on correlation of archaeological remains with literary sources, and on the development of the arts in relation to cultural environments of the archaic, classical, and Hellenistic periods. Pre: 2385. (3H,3C)

3094: EARLY MODERN GLOBAL VISUAL CULTURE
Visual and material culture in the context of global travel, trade, and foreign contact during the Early Modern period. Artistic exchanges through contact between Europe, the New World, Islamic lands, Japan, China, and colonial Africa. Material as cultural artifacts, commodities, and transmitters of new technologies and scientific knowledge. (3H,3C)

3114: CREATIVE CODING FOR CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION
Introduction to computer programming tools within a critical aesthetic context. Creation and analysis of generative and algorithmic artwork as well as consideration of how works derived from logical rulesets, algorithms, and the artful application of randomness can communicate human feelings and ideas. Consideration of ethics of algorithmic systems in our culture and media, and creating art works to address those issues and influence opinion. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L, 1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L, 1C). Pre: 1114. (1H,5L,3C)

3174: INTRODUCTION TO ARCHAEOLOGY
Introduction to archaeology focusing on a history of the discipline of archaeology with an emphasis on Mesopotamia and the Mediterranean world. Evolution of field inquiry and techniques in the context of major historical personages and excavations in Egypt, Greece, Italy and Syro-Palestine, as well as contemporary global and ethical issues surrounding the preservation and protection of archaeological artifacts, particularly with regards to the role they serve and their use and misuse as non-renewable global objects of cultural heritage and cultural identity. (3H,3C)

3184: ROMAN ART AND ARCHITECTURE
Painting, sculpture, and architecture of the Romans 500 B.C. - 323 A.D. Emphasis on relation between monuments and the political and cultural circumstances that led to their creation. Pre: 2385. (3H,3C)

3284: MEDIEVAL ART AND ARCHITECTURE
Artistic traditions of the medieval world from the fourth to fifteenth centuries with a focus on diverse cultural exchanges between Byzantine east and Latin west, along with Islamic contact. Stylistic, thematic, and formal developments in sculpture, painting, textiles, metalwork, architecture, book arts within social, political, and religious contexts. (3H,3C)

3384: RENAISSANCE ART AND ARCHITECTURE
A chronological survey of Renaissance art analyzing painting, sculpture, the graphic arts, and architecture. Develops visual literacy through an evaluation of major stylistic and thematic trends within the study of historical context, artistic techniques and processes, iconography, patronage, economy, religion, political structures, and emerging sciences. (3H,3C)

3484: BAROQUE AND ROCOCO ART AND ARCHITECTURE
Art and architecture of the seventeenth-century Baroque and eighteenth-century Rococo with with an emphasis on form, style, and cultural contexts for painting, sculpture, and architecture. A study of major artists, themes, styles, and technical artistic processes in Italy, Spain, Flanders, Holland, England, France in contexts of global expansion. Seventeenth-century visual culture in its historical, religious, economic, social, and ethical contexts. (3H,3C)

3504: TOPICS IN DIGITAL ART AND DESIGN
Rotating topics that explore the computer as an artistic medium and design tool. Intermediate level. The student will encounter as interdisciplinary approach to the use of the computer, as aesthetic ideas are presented and various digital techniques are applied. Stresses use and manipulation of original images created by the student, employing a combination of digital and traditional methods. May be repeated with different content for a maximum of 12 credits. Course contact to credit hour structure: Design Lab/Studio (5L, 3C) Resource Charge. Pre: 2604. (5L,3C)

3514: TOPICS IN DRAWING
Rotating topics in drawing media, approaches, and theories. All topics will be devoted to promoting individual student creativity, mastery of drawing means and techniques, and further understanding of graphic concerns. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). May be repeated for a maximum of 9 hours with different topics. RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: 1414 or 2514. (1H,5L,3C)

3524: TOPICS IN PAINTING MEDIA
Rotating topics in painting techniques, disciplines, and theory emphasizing individual creative development and skilled approaches to technical problem-solving in visual art and design. Intermediate level. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). Pre: 2524. (1H,5L,3C)

3544: TOPICS IN CERAMICS
Rotating Topics in special techniques, processes, design concepts and forms in the ceramic arts. May be repeated for a maximum of 12hours with different topics. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). FEES REQUIRED. Pre: 2644. (1H,5L,3C)

3554: TOPICS IN SCULPTURE
Rotating topics that will focus on specific technical processes and applications of three dimensional problem solving in the visual arts. The course will stress techniques and issues found in contemporary 3D art and design. Emphasizes intensive studio practice through a series of individual projects related to the topics. FEES REQUIRED. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). Pre: 2554. (1H,5L,3C)

3564: TOPICS IN PHOTOGRAPHY
Rotating topics in photographic materials, methods and philosophies. All topics promote individual student’s creativity, master of photographic techniques and further understanding of the medium. May be repeated with different topics for a maximum of 12 credits. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: 2664. (1H,5L,3C)

3565-3566: INTERMEDIATE GRAPHIC DESIGN I AND II
Intermediate design layout, technical and concept development, and communication skills. First semester emphasizes advanced and new software relevant to the design, advertising, and printing industry. Second semester focuses on typography, professional pre-press, electronic printing and color separation processes. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: 2576 for 3565; 3565, 3565 for 3566. (1H,5L,3C)

3574: TOPICS IN GRAPHIC DESIGN
Rotating topics in graphic design, for the intermediate level student. This course will encourage visual problem-solving, conceptual development, clarity and individuality of expression. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). Pre: 2576. (1H,5L,3C)

3574H: TOPICS IN GRAPHIC DESIGN
Rotating topics in graphic design, for the intermediate level student. This course will encourage visual problem-solving, conceptual development, clarity and individuality of expression. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Pre: 2576. (1H,5L,3C)

3584: NINETEENTH CENTURY EUROPEAN ART: NEOCLASSICISM TO POST-IMPRESSIONISM
European art and material culture of the nineteenth-century. A chronological study of the major artists, artistic movements and styles from neoclassicism to post-impressionism. Analysis of works using key critical and philosophical texts. Emphasis on the role of gender, race, ethnicity and colonialism in the production of art and material culture. (3H,3C)

3604: TOPICS IN NEW MEDIA ART
Rotating topics explore the computer as an artistic medium and design tool. An interdisciplinary approach to the use of a computer. Aesthetic ideas and application of digital techniques. Use and manipulation of original images created by the student, employing a combination of digital and traditional methods. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits. Course contact to credit hour structure: Design Lab/Studio (5L, 3C). RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: 2604. (5L,3C)

3674: HISTORY OF PHOTOGRAPHY
A chronological history of photography, from its invention in the nineteenth-century to the emergence of digital technology. Emphasis on historical, sociological, cultural, and global contexts. Addresses terminology and visual analysis, inventions, individual photographers, famous photographs, and issues of inclusion and critical discourse. (3H,3C)

3684: AFRICAN-AMERICAN ART
African-American art and material culture, from its beginnings in the tribal traditions of Africa to its contemporary manifestations. A chronological study of the major artists, movements and styles. Analysis of works using key critical and philosophical texts. Emphasis on the role of gender, race, and ethnicity in the production of art and material culture. (3H,3C)

3704: TOPICS IN COMPUTER ANIMATION
Rotating topics that explore the artistic and design potential of computer animation. Using current digital techniques and methods, focus is on the creation and manipulation of virtual character designs. Students will use an interdisciplinary aesthetic approach to investigate computer animation concepts. May be repeated for credit maximum of 12 credits. Course contact to credit hour structure: Design Lab/Studio (5L, 3C). RESOURCE CHARGE. Pre: 2704. (5L,3C)

3704H: HONORS TOPICS IN COMPUTER ANIM
Rotating topics that explore the artistic and design potential of computer animation. Using current digital techniques and methods, focus is on the creation and manipulation of virtual character designs. Students will use an interdisciplinary aesthetic approach to investigate computer animation concepts. RESOURCE CHARGE. May be repeated for credit maximum of 12 credits. Variable credit course.

3774: HISTORY OF MODERN GRAPHIC DESIGN
A chronological survey of the history of modern graphic design, from the mid-19th century to 1980. Pre: 2386. (3H,3C)

3784: EUROPEAN AND AMERICAN ART SINCE 1900
European and American Art since 1900. A chronological survey of painting and sculpture from neo-impressionism through post-modernism. Pre: 2386. (3H,3C)

3854: PROFESSIONAL STUDIO PRACTICES
An overview of professional studio art practices, concepts, marketing strategies and promotional materials. The international exhibition system and current educational opportunities, employment and career options in the visual arts are presented. Preparing of written materials and documenting artwork, building a professional portfolio for presentation to potential employers, art galleries and exhibitions are stressed. Pre: Bachelors of Fine Arts (BFA) majors only. (3H,3C)

3884: AMERICAN ART TO 1914
American art and material culture from Pre-Columbian past to the early 20th century. A chronological study of the major artists, artistic movements, and styles. Analysis of works using key critical and philosophical texts. Emphasis on the role of gender, race, and ethnicity in the production of art and material culture. (3H,3C)

3954: STUDY ABROAD
Variable credit course. X-grade allowed.

3984: SPECIAL STUDY
Variable credit course.

4104: INTERPRETATION OF VISUAL ARTS
Capstone seminar for the Pathways Minor in the Visual Arts and Society. Introduces methodologies, theories, and interpretive strategies commonly used to analyze the visual arts and architecture. Focuses on various critical case studies of global objects and sites ranging from the prehistoric to contemporary periods in the fields of: painting, sculpture, architecture, photography, and film. Assignments explore regional arts resources in these media and develop discursive skills employed in written and oral presentations. Considers ethical and political issues surrounding interpretation of art, as well as attendant epistemological challenges. Pre: Six credits of social sciences from Pathways Minor in the Visual Arts and Society checksheet. Pre: 1104. (3H,3C)

4384: TOPICS IN ART HISTORY
Advanced art history elective. Rotating topics from all periods of art history, selected to complement offerings at the 3000-level. Topics such as Greek Sculpture, Roman Painting, Renaissance and Baroque Sculpture, Cubism, and Fauvism indicated by timetable. Lecture and/or undergraduate seminar format. May be repeated for credit for a maximum of 18 credits. Pre: 2386. (3H,3C)

4484: TOPICS IN ART CRITICISM AND METHODOLOGY
Advanced art history elective. Rotating topics in the criticism of art and the methodology of art history and criticism, selected to complement offerings at the 3000-level. Topics such as the History of Art Criticism from Baudelaire to the Present, New Methods in Renaissance and Baroque Art History, and the Theory of Art from various periods, indicated by timetable. Lecture and/or undergraduate seminar format. May be repeated for credit with different content to a maximum of 9 credits. Pre: 2385 or 2386. (3H,3C)

4504: TOPICS IN MULTIMEDIA STUDIO
This studio course investigates computer-based multimedia in the visual arts and applied design. Video, photography, computer art and design may be used with traditional media and communication vehicles. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits. Two 3000-level courses required. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). Pre: (1414, 1604) or (1504, 1514, 2504). (1H,5L,3C)

4514: INTERARTS STUDIO
This studio course will investigate new approaches to art-making and new genres, such as performance art and site-specific installation. Interdisciplinary basis for course may incorporate traditional studio practices and media in the visual arts, music and theatre arts, and appropriate technology in computer, video, and film. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits with different topics. 3000-level course in Studio or Art History or departmental approval. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE. (1H,5L,3C)

4524: PICTORIAL ARTS STUDIO
Rotating topics in the two dimensional arts, at an advanced level. All topics will challenge the student to develop stronger, independently generated work of portfolio quality. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits with different topics. 3000-level Painting or Drawing course required. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE Pre: 3524 or 3514. (1H,5L,3C)

4534: TOPICS IN APPLIED ART AND DESIGN STUDIO
Rotating topics about functional art and design. Students will use appropriate materials, tools, and processes in the creation of functional artworks, such as furniture, tiles, tableware, etc. Function and design aesthetics emphasized. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits with different topics. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE Pre: 3544. (1H,5L,3C)

4544: COMPUTER ANIMATION STUDIO
Advanced animation course focusing on the creation of short films, demo reels, and expressive computer animated films. Students enrolled in this course are expected to complete one large project during the semester. May be repeated with different course content for up to nine credit hours. Course contact to credit hour structure: Design Lab/Studio (5L, 3C) Pre: 3704 or 3704. (5L,3C)

4554: SPATIAL ARTS STUDIO
Advanced level, rotating topics in the three dimensional arts. All topics will challenge the student to develop stronger, independently generated work of portfolio quality. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits with different topics. 3000-level Ceramics, Sculpture or Applied Art course required. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE Pre: 3554. (1H,5L,3C)

4564: EXHIBITION DESIGN AND DISPLAY
This course will focus on the display and presentation of visual art, for student-designed exhibitions. Provides experience in the public art arena, and practical k arena, and practical knowledge about planning, designing, and mounting an exhibition. Pre: 3000-level Studio or Art History course required. (1H,5L,3C)

4574: ADVANCED VISUAL COMMUNICATIONS
A further refinement of design theory and practice, and communication skills. Emphasis on the conceptual development of expanded project formats, and individual creativity. This class will provide a principal opportunity for building a viable portfolio. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). RESOURCE CHARGE 6 credits of Art 3574 required. Pre: 4504. (1H,5L,3C)

4575-4576: ADVANCED VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN
Refinement of design theory, practice, and communication skills. Emphasis placed on methodologies and strategies for developing a personal identity, website, and/or multimedia portfolio. Development of professional brand identity through web design, design of business cards, letterhead, envelopes, and electronic media. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). Pre: 3566 for 4575; 4575 for 4576. (1H,5L,3C)

4584: ADVANCED TYPOGRAPHY
Advanced study of Typography as it relates to Visual Communication Design including historical and contemporary context. Terminology and advanced applications of Typography, complex grid systems, experimental typographic methods, and material studies. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). Pre: 2566. (1H,5L,3C)

4754: INTERNSHIP
Variable credit course. X-grade allowed.

4804: NEW MEDIA ART THEORY
Exploration of new media theory in relationship to contemporary arts practice. Overview and application of new media art aesthetics, strategies, trends, and socio-cultural aspirations. The course will examine theoretical writings and creative work from prevailing technologically-based disciplines. Pre: 2385, 2386. (3H,3C)

4894: SENIOR STUDIO
Preparation and presentation of concentrated studio work under faculty supervision, culminating in solo exhibition and/or formal portfolio. May be extended over two semesters with final grade assigned on completion. Or may be repeated for a total of 6 credits at a maximum of 3H, 3C per semester. Senior standing and consent of department head required. Course contact to credit hour structure: Lecture (1H,1C), Lab (3L,1C), Design Lab/Studio (2L,1C). (1H,5L,3C)

4964: FIELD STUDY
Variable credit course.

4974: INDEPENDENT STUDY
Variable credit course.

4974H: INDEPENDENT STUDY
Variable credit course.

4984: SPECIAL STUDY
Variable credit course.

4994: UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH
Variable credit course.

4994H: UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH
Variable credit course.