Course Descriptions - Concentration in Studio Art

Studio Art Courses (45 credits)

AR 113 Three-Dimensional Design

Provides an analytical approach to design elements and principles with an emphasis on spatial organization and three-dimensional forms using a variety of materials and techniques. This course investigates numerous approaches to understanding the visual world. General Education Choice for Part A. Offered yearly. 3 credits

AR 122 Two-Dimensional Design

An introduction to the elements of two-dimensional design and study of visual language principles used to organize the plane. Projects are geared to solving visual “problems” with an eye toward elegant and economical solutions. This course will be conducted using the computer as the primary tool and investigating numerous approaches to understanding the visual world. General Education Choice for Part A. 3 credits

AR 391 Senior Project

Includes discussion of current writings on art and art criticism, and a studio project or research paper. Exhibition required of seniors concentrating in studio art; lecture or project required of those concentrating in the history of art. P: Open to senior art majors. 3 credits

AH 230 History of Art I

A survey of painting, sculpture, and architecture of the Western World from prehistory to the Renaissance. This course investigates aesthetic and technical developments in art and architecture and their relationship to the social, political, and cultural growth of Western civilization. It is designed to introduce students to new perspectives through the visual language of art history. General Education choice for Part A. Generally offered once a year. 3 credits

AH 231 History of Art II

A continuation of Art History I, the survey of Western painting, sculpture, and architecture from the Renaissance to the present examines the varied styles and expressions of the l6th-l9th centuries, explores major modernist and postmodernist movements of the 20th–21st century, and serves as a foundation for further study of the history of art. General Education choice for Part A. Generally offered once a year. 3 credits

One course in art history beyond AH 231 (3 credits)

Seven courses in studio electives in three or more areas (21 credits)

Recommended Correlative: (3 credits)

PH 365 Origins of Art

What makes something a work of art? What makes a work of art a good work of art? Can and should art be judged? What is the relationship of art to the world? Can art be immoral? Can art be immoral and be good art? Is art significant? In this course, we will reflect upon the ontological and epistemological status of works of art and the nature of aesthetic judgment in order to gain insight into the unique character of artistic creation, art works, and aesthetic experience. P: Sophomore standing or permission of the instructor. General Education choice for Part C. 3 credits