syllabus

SUPPLIES NEEDED SEE LIST BELOW

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals and concepts of organizing forms in three dimensions. Students use basic materials for a sequence of observation-based problems exploring line, plane and volume with modeled and constructed forms, both in relief and free-standing. This is a required course in the Fine Arts & Graphic Design degree programs.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

  • To develop an understanding and appreciation of the interaction of form in space and the ways to manipulate it.
  • To develop abilities in perception, conception, creative problem-solving, decision-making, risk-taking, and personal expression through a series of related assignments which respect tradition and encourage innovation.
  • To develop useful attitudes towards creative activity.
  • To develop a sensitivity to a wide range of 3D media, processes, and concepts by exploring their possibilities and limitations.
  • To produce a series of 3D designs that demonstrate significant growth in all of the above.

COURSE CONTENT:

3D Fundamentals: Studio sessions will consist of a sequence of projects that will introduce the visual and verbal vocabulary and concepts of 3-Dimensional design: primarily line, plane, volume, mass, space, texture, scale, time, and context. These will be supplemented by readings, handouts, slide lectures, demonstrations, informal discussions, individual and group critiques, quizzes, and research projects on individual artists.

Creative Problem-Solving: Each project will include a discussion of the acceptance and definition of the problem, ideation, and judgment, and conceptualization through sketching and possibly model-making.

3D Processes: Projects will incorporate planar, linear, and volumetric construction techniques. These will introduce the elements of form and function, and the intrinsic and expressive qualities of different materials.

3D Media: Projects will explore these materials: card, wire, wood, screen and found objects.

Themes: Projects will include 3D studies of everyday objects, the human figure, forms from nature and technology, and personal themes interpreted by representation or abstraction.

Art History: Each assignment will include an overview of an aspect of art history such as Constructivism, Cubism, Futurism, Pop Art, Conceptual Art, outdoor sculpture, and contemporary mixed-media installations. Students are encouraged to go to the campus Library to research artists from these art movements.

Drawing/ Sketchbook Component: Students must spend time inside and outside class keeping a small sketchbook, a "visual notebook" for the duration of the class. This sketchbook is to be used exclusively for this class. The importance of using a sketchbook cannot be emphasized enough. The sketchbook is a tool for the development of ideas, and an aid to visual thinking: before, during, and after each project. It should be brought to all classes and used constantly to record ideas, explore solutions, variations, new relationships, contrasts, structural problems, and art historical influences. A minimum of 20 pages of sketches must accompany each assignment. Drawing can also be used as a physical component in a 3D design.

Writing/ Research: Students may be asked to write brief statements on their projects as a form of self-evaluation. In addition students must write 1 short paper (1-2 pages typed) on an art exhibition or Visiting Artist's Lecture.

Visiting Artist's Lectures & Exhibitions: Art majors are expected to attend all Visiting Artist Lectures in the Visual Arts Department during the semester. In addition students are expected to see all the art exhibitions in the Muroff-Kotler Gallery.

Quizzes: There will be 2 quizzes on 3D Vocabulary & Definitions, at mid-semester and at the end of the semester.

Critiques: Group critiques will be held at the end of each project, and during each project as a "work-in-progress" discussion. Individual critiques will be held at mid-semester and at the end of the semester. Students can request an appointment for an individual critique at any time that is mutually agreeable.

Photography: Because of the physical size of these 3D projects, digital or color slide documentation is recommended for student portfolios. Photography demonstrations and sessions will be held at the end of the semester. Photographic imagery can also be used as a component for some 3D projects.
Exhibitions: When possible, student projects can be displayed in various locations on campus.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS & GRADES:

The Minimum Requirements of each project will be clearly outlined. Failure to meet these requirements will result in a below average grade.

Attendance & Punctuality: This course consists of long hours of concentrated hard work developing conceptual, technical, and intuitive skills, both in and out of class. Punctuality and regular attendance are mandatory.

Be on time. Lateness is disruptive and will be counted as an absence after 15 minutes.

More than 3 unexcused absences will lower your grade, and 5 unexcused absences will result in an automatic F grade. Because of the nature of a studio class with informal discussions and exchanges of ideas, students are expected to attend all classes and are responsible for all material covered. Plan your time accordingly. If you miss a class, you are responsible for contacting the instructor as soon as possible to find out what you missed and how you can make up the class work.

There are no unapproved breaks during this class. Ask the instructor first.
Homework: Students should anticipate spending a minimum of 4-6 hours per week on their 3D projects outside of class. The 3D studio is open to students outside of class time and you are welcome to work there at those times.

Projects: Each assignment will be graded on an individual basis, on the conceptual and technical merits of the piece, as well as the creativity, originality, and presentation. It's important to note that the most obvious solution is not always the best, and that poor technique can ruin the best idea.

Critiques: Students are expected to complete projects on time and to participate fully in group discussions and critiques. These critiques are especially important and are part of the learning, evaluation, and analysis process. They are the equivalent of an exam. Students are expected to be there with their completed projects. Failure to do so will result in an F grade. Late work will be given a lower grade.

Sketchbook: Each project must be accompanied by a minimum of 20 pages of sketches. These sketches will be graded. You should have a sketchbook only for this class, and bring it to every studio session, along with any other required tools and materials. Failure to do so will render you unprepared for class, and you will be noted as such.

Participation: A grade will be assigned for your general attitude, energy, enthusiasm, and participation in class, especially during discussions and critiques.
Quizzes: There will be 2 quizzes on 3D Vocabulary & Definitions, at mid-semester and at the end of the semester.

Studio Co-operation: Cleaning up after yourself, general regular maintenance of the 3D studio, care of and respect for tools and equipment, and proper observance of safety rules are included in your participation grade.

Midterm and Final Grade: will be based on all of the above components
50% of your grade will be based on your completed projects
20% of your grade will be based on your sketchbook
20% of your grade will be based on your participation in class
10% of your grade will be based on your 2 quizzes and 1 writing assignment

A for work of consistent excellence in all areas of the class
B for work of very good quality
C for work meeting the normal expectations of class requirements
D for poor work
F for unsatisfactory work

For an above average grade: The minimum requirement for each assignment will be clearly stated. Additional time, effort, and enthusiasm both in and out of class are necessary for an above average grade. Students who listen, ask questions, work hard, take risks, explore concepts and media, and actively engage in constructive criticism and the exchange of ideas will benefit the most from this class, and earn an above average grade.

STUDIO RULES & SAFETY CONCERNS:

Toxic materials: Do not use spray paint, glue, fixative, or any hazardous chemicals in the studio. There is no adequate ventilation for these kinds of dangerous fumes. If you have to use hazardous materials, do so outdoors so that you have adequate ventilation. Read container labels- be informed of how dangerous and environmentally irresponsible some of these products are, be healthy, and consider the health of others who have to breathe the air you might pollute.

Clean up after yourself: Failure to be responsible for areas that you work in, sweeping up, discarding waste material responsibly, cleaning and returning tools, and storing your work properly, will directly affect your grade.

Any projects or materials left in the 3D Studio after the end of the semester will be thrown away.

Class Preparation: You must come to all classes prepared to work. Do any necessary preliminary work, buying supplies, etc., in your own time prior to class. Do not use class time to buy supplies or leave class early to buy supplies. No exceptions. No excuses.

Food: no food allowed in class. You may get a snack during the 10-minute break.
Music: No personal music players. No headphones. No commercial radio stations. A class CD player is available when appropriate (with instructor’s permission) for playing diverse and educational selections.

MATERIALS PROVIDED BY STUDENTS:

  • You are expected to purchase these in the 1st. week of classes:
  • Card- 2 sheets White Poster Board
  • Small Sketchbook, 100 pages, minimum 5" x 8" ONLY FOR THIS CLASS
  • Mat or Utility Knife, with extra blades, X-Acto or Stanley Brand recommended
  • Small needle-nose or flat-nose pliers (to cut & bend wire) for wire project
  • Pencil and eraser
  • Metal straight edge ruler minimum 12", not plastic or wood
  • White Glue e.g. Elmers
  • Scissors
  • Masking Tape
  • Acrylic Paints and brushes as needed (the same paints that you used in 2D Design- red, yellow, blue, black and white)
  • Corrugated cardboard as needed (free, found material)
  • Optional extras: Glue Gun & Glue Sticks
  • These supplies can be purchased at Catskill Art supply in Kingston, Woodstock or Poughkeepsie, or Manny’s in New Paltz.

All other supplies will be provided by the department.

In addition there will be projects where you will have a free choice of materials & found objects that you can supply yourself

 

 

 

Intro to 3-D DESIGN
Syllabus

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