Approved by Faculty Senate

University Studies Proposal: Arts and Sciences Core

FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS: ART 115 3-D Design

This course develops students’ perceptual, creative, technical, and problem solving skills in a three-dimensional context. Aesthetic judgment and good studio practice are also cultivated. Majors are provided with three-dimensional orientation as part of the art foundation/core program and are prepared for experiences in sculpture, ceramics and other studio areas. Non-majors find this basic experience in three-dimensional skills applicable to a variety of fields.

Requirements and learning activities that promote students’ abilities to:

  1. Explore the language, skills and materials of visual art

    2. A series of projects are assigned which are completed during class and outside of class. Class critiques of finished work are an integral part of each project. A range of media will be used such as paper, cardboard, wood, plaster and found objects, all manipulated with hand tools and basic shop tools.

    Projects address the elements and principles of three-dimensional design as outlined below. Consideration is also given to concept, craftsmanship, originality, and expression where applicable. This is essentially a problem-solving class — there are many possible solutions to any given problem. A major objective of the class is that the participants learn the vocabulary of three-dimensional art and employ that vocabulary during class critiques.

  2. use art studio methods to actively engage in the creative process

Students:

  1. Learn basic concepts in three-dimensional design.

2. Explore a range of basic studio processes.

3. Learn the technical application of a variety of tools and materials.

4. Develop perceptual skills through analyzing and identifying visual components.

5. Demonstrate knowledge and skills of visual elements and principles through projects and oral and written communication.

6. Develop understanding of relationship between form and content in three-dimensional design.

  1. understand the cultural and gender contexts of artistic expression

    2. Instruction in 3-D Design is based on the contemporary Western approach to studio practice and artistic expression. However, students are introduced to the three-dimensional arts and design of the past and of other cultures, including examples by women artists, past and present, of the West and elsewhere. Students learn from slide images, textbook reproductions and readings, and through their oral reports. They respond to cultural and gender questions in their journals and through subsequent class discussion.

  2. engage in reflective analysis of their own work and respond to the work of others

Students analyze their own work and the work of other students through critiques written in journals and subsequent classroom critique discussion. Students analyze the work of professional artists through class discussion and the writing of a paper critiquing a current exhibition or performance.

 

3-D Design (Art 115)

Prof. Anne S. Plummer

CREDITS: 3 PREREQUISITES: None GRADING TYPE: P/NC Option non-majors

 

APPLICATION: BA, BS majors and BA minor required;

This course fulfills 3 credits of the Arts and Sciences Core Requirements in the Fine and Performing Arts area of the University Studies Program

 

COURSE SYLLABUS

CATALOG DESCRIPTION:

Foundation experience in manipulating materials in three-dimensional space. Broad range of basic materials, tools and techniques used to solve problems in creating objects and spaces.

MAJOR FOCUS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE COURSE:

This course develops students’ perceptual, creative, technical, and problem solving skills in a three-dimensional context. Aesthetic judgment and good studio practice are also cultivated. Majors are provided with three-dimensional orientation as part of the art foundation/core program and are prepared for experiences in sculpture, ceramics and other studio areas. Non-majors find this basic experience in three-dimensional skills applicable to a variety of fields.

The following objectives address the learning outcomes for Fine and Performing Arts courses in the University Studies program:

  1. Explore the language, skills and materials of visual art

    2. A series of projects are assigned which are completed during class and outside of class. Class critiques of finished work are an integral part of each project. A range of media will be used such as paper, cardboard, wood, plaster and found objects, all manipulated with hand tools and basic shop tools.

    Projects address the elements and principles of three-dimensional design as outlined below. Consideration is also given to concept, craftsmanship, originality, and expression where applicable. This is essentially a problem-solving class — there are many possible solutions to any given problem. A major objective of the class is that the participants learn the vocabulary of three-dimensional art and employ that vocabulary during class critiques.

  2. use art studio methods to actively engage in the creative process

Students:

  1. Learn basic concepts in three-dimensional design.

2. Explore a range of basic studio processes.

3. Learn the technical application of a variety of tools and materials.

4. Develop perceptual skills through analyzing and identifying visual components.

5. Demonstrate knowledge and skills of visual elements and principles through projects and oral and written communication.

6. Develop understanding of relationship between form and content in three-dimensional design.

  1. understand the cultural and gender contexts of artistic expression

    2. Instruction in 3-D Design is based on the contemporary Western approach to studio practice and artistic expression. However, students are introduced to the three-dimensional arts and design of the past and of other cultures, including examples by women artists, past and present, of the West and elsewhere. Students learn from slide images, textbook reproductions and readings, and through their oral reports. They respond to cultural and gender questions in their journals and through subsequent class discussion.

  2. engage in reflective analysis of their own work and respond to the work of others

Students analyze their own work and the work of other students through critiques written in journals and subsequent classroom critique discussion. Students analyze the work of professional artists through class discussion and the writing of a paper critiquing a current exhibition or performance.

 

COURSE OUTLINE:

The knowledge base for this course is described in the section following outline items.

A Introduction and Course Overview

1. Purpose, scope and sequence, competencies and expectations

2. Discussion of perception and observation

3. Historical and contemporary materials, techniques, styles, functions

4. Examples and illustrations (artworks)

B. Tools and Materials

1. Hand tools and power tools

2. Temporary materials and permanent materials

3. Techniques

C. Creative Processes

1. Nature and abstraction

2. Imitation and expression

3. Function

4. Problem solving

5. Pre-conceived outcomes

6. Influence of process and materials

7. Artist as craftsman and artisan

D. Elements

1. Mass, shape, form

2. Space

3. Planes and surfaces

4. Line and silhouette

5. Texture

6. Light

7. Color

8. Gravity

9. Time

E Principles

1. Proportion

2, Balance

3. Movement

4. Rhythm and repetition

5. Emphasis and dominance

6. Function

7. Variety

8. Size and scale

F. Criticism and Analysis

1. Individual and group critiques

2. Verbal and written analysis

3. Relationship of form and content

BASIC INSTRUCTIONAL PLAN AND METHODS UTILIZED:

Introductory instruction for each project is through lecture, slide lecture, demonstration, assigned reading, and assigned visual study (gallery and museum viewing). Primary mode of instruction is through studio practice — manipulation of tools and materials to produce three-dimensional solutions to problems. Collaborative work is assigned. Peer consultation, individual critique, group critique, sketches, journal writing, response papers, and oral reports enable students to assess and evaluate their work.

We are a community of learners in this class. Co-operation and exchange of ideas among us all is encouraged. Some projects require working together in small groups, and the completion of many projects is enhanced through co-operation.

Studio safety is emphasized. Learn to use tools properly. Use appropriate safety equipment (masks, gloves, guards, pushsticks). Keep your work area clean and organized and be aware of what others are doing around you. Become familiar with equipment before using it. After working, replace all tools, clean your area, and store your projects (in your locker or studio 212).

 

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

A. Completion of all assigned projects.

B. Participation in group and individual critiques.

C. Sketches, journal writing, response papers and oral reports.

D. Consistent class attendance.

METHODS OF EVALUATION:

Student evaluation is based on:

A. PROJECTS: Satisfactory completion of projects and their requirements in time for class critiques.

B. Originality, appropriate craftsmanship, content, and dynamic visual impact of solutions.

C. PARTICIPATION IN CRITIQUES Quality and quantity of participation in individual and group critiques.

D. Performance in sketchbook/journal and oral reports

 

SKETCHBOOKS/JOURNALS are reviewed periodically throughout the semester, and at Finals. Use your sketchal to record information from exhibitions, slides, 3-D forms you see around you, lectures in class, oral reports, your projects, and other students’ projects. Journalize after each class on what you experienced and/or learned. Use your journal to outline and respond to reading assignments.

 

ORAL REPORTS based on library research in conjunction with a project are presented several times throughout the quarter.

 

RESPONSE PAPERS are typed, one to two page papers that analyze and record your responses to an exhibit or performing art event.

E. CONSISTENT CLASS ATTENDANCE Attendance to each entire class is essential to understand projects, see demonstrations, view slides, take advantage of work time, participate in class discussions, and get the instructor’s help with your projects. Expect to work outside of class as well. Bring written proof of legitimate absence (i.e. a note from your doctor or the campus health service). More than three unexcused absences may result in a lowered grade. You are responsible for learning the information presented in class from other students or from the instructor during office hours.

F. OBSERVANCE OF SAFETY AND CLEAN-UP PRACTICES Be sure you know how to use tools properly and use the appropriate safety equipment. Allow time for returning tools, cleaning up debris, and storing work in progress. A different team of two people will have a clean-up assignment after each class. Sign up for your days (three times during the semester) and get your assignment from the instructor that day.

TEXTBOOK:

Zelanski, Fisher. Shaping Space: The Dynamics of Three-dimensional Design

Five copies of this book are on reserve at the WSU library. Several copies are available at the bookstore for purchase. You might consider sharing the purchase of the book with a classmate.

REFERENCES:

Berger, John. Ways of Seeing. New York: Viking Press, 1973.

Palmer, P. J. The Courage to Teach. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass Publishers, 1998.

Shahn, Ben. The Shape of Content. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1957.

Widman, Lorraine. Sculpture: A Studio Guide. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall, 1989.

TOOLS AND MATERIALS

sketchbook/journal - loose-leaf 8 1/2" x 11" binder that includes both lined and unlined paper.

appropriate clothing and shoes

lock for locker (Bookstore)

utility knife (Tri-Mac at 1 Washington St. or Daniel’s Ace Hardware at Huff and 2nd Sts.)

tape measure (6' or 8') (same as above)

masking tape, glue, string, hardware etc. as needed (same as above - buy only as you need it)

Optional: personal dust mask; apron or smock

 

OFFICE HOURS Monday through Thursday: 1:30 — 2:45 PM, and by appointment

I will either be in the Art office (204D), or in the studio (109 or 212.) You may also talk to me during class after any group activities, or you may make an appointment to see me at some other time. If you have any questions not answered in class or are experiencing any difficulties, be sure to talk to me about it as soon as possible.

E-MAIL and Phone aplummer@winona.edu PH 457-5393

Please use e-mail or the telephone (with voicemail) to ask questions, notify me of an emergency absence, set up an office appointment time, etc.

STUDIO HOURS The building and 109 and 212 studios are open to students taking Sculpture, 3-D, and Ceramics classes:

Mon.- Thu 7:30 am — 9:00 PM

Fri. 7:30 am — 5:00 PM

Sat 10:00 am — 4:00 PM

Sun 12:00 noon — 4:00 PM

If you are in the building when it is locked by Security, you may stay as long as you like. However, you cannot then leave and re-enter. The building is closed over breaks and holidays.

 

LOCKERS Use tape to label a locker downstairs with your name and the semester (Fall ‘00.) Store your tools, materials, special clothing, and small work in progress there.