Fine Arts

This course teaches students the basics of the art of drawing. Emphasis will be placed on hands-on studio activities and the promotion of visual literacy. Students will learn the basics of line, contour, shading, texture, perspective, composition, and action drawing. Through various readings and presentations, students will analyze and interpret various perspectives in drawing. Critiques and lectures will help students develop an understanding of the critical issues of drawing and of its context within the history of art. Students will also be introduced to the process involved in planning, researching, and actualizing a major drawing project. Students will create several original works of art and compile a portfolio of their artwork. A few supplies are needed, and available for purchase at the bookstore.

This course introduces students to the art of painting. Students will develop an understanding of the basic elements of painting, such as shape, space, and composition as well as how to create a full color palette in this introductory level course. There is also a focus on the material qualities of paint, including mixing and application to surfaces. Students are encouraged to use self-expression as they learn basic techniques. Classes include hands-on demonstrations, the use of still life, and photographs. Students will create several original works of art and compile a portfolio of their artwork. No experience is necessary.

This course covers the technical and artistic aspects of photography and digital imaging. Topics include camera operation, exposure, composition, and lighting with emphasis on the technical and artistic sides of photography. Through assignments in photographing nature, scenery, people, sports, and existing light and through the study of the styles of many renowned photographers, students will begin to develop their artistic sense and photographic vision. Students will use photo editing software to manipulate and composite images.
**Students must have access to a camera with adjustable apertures and shutter speeds.
The rationale of this course is to teach the students the fundamental elements, technical knowledge, and the creative inspiration to understand and produce images that are interesting, informative, and attractive to a wider range of viewers. Photography is very useful as a visual communication tool in everything from articulating personal stories to illustrating commercial messages and research as well as many other professional and non-professional uses.

For centuries, drawing has been at the core of scientific research and documentation. From botanical studies to anatomical drawing to medical illustrations, the art of drawing is a powerful tool to help us understand and interpret the complex structures of the natural world. In this course, students will gain the technical skills to successfully render compelling biological illustrations ranging from microscopic organisms to plants to the human body. Students will analyze biological subjects and draw from life as a means of strengthening observational skills and representing scientific material through visual language. *Note: This course counts as a Liberal Arts, Fine Arts, or Open Elective but not as a Lab Science Elective.