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Undergraduate Art Course Descriptions
Foundation | Core | Art Education | Art History | Drawing & Painting | Graphic Design | Illustration | Photography | Printmaking | Sculpture | Ceramics | Additional Courses
Foundation Courses
1020 or 1110. Drawing I (3)
Drawing from various sources to study traditional and innovative drawing techniques and materials. The use of graphic elements and approaches to pictorial form and space will be taught. (F, Sp)
1120 or 1150. Two Dimensional Design (3)
Basic art elements with projects in two dimensions. (Required of art majors) (F, Sp)
1130 or 1160. Three Dimensional Design (3)
Development of a basic understanding of three-dimensional form and space relationships using a variety of media. (F, Sp)
2110. Drawing II (3)
A continuation of Art 1020, 1110, with an emphasis on more complex problems and techniques. (Prerequisite: Art 1020 or Art 1110) (F, Sp)
2710 (ARTH). Survey of Western Art I (3)
Prehistoric through Medieval. (F)
2720 (ARTH). Survey of Western Art II (3)
Renaissance through Modern. (Sp)
Art Basic Core Courses
2200. Painting I (3)
Introduction to visual language of painting. Focuses on organization of visual ideas and basic oil painting techniques. Provides experience in both direct and indirect painting methods, as well as introducing applied color concepts. (Prerequisites: Art 1020 or 1110 and Art 1120 or 1150) (F)
2230. Basic Printmaking (3)
Introductory course to acquaint students with the broader aspects of relife, intaglio, and planographic processes. (Prerequisites: Art 1020 or 1110 and Art 1120 or 1150) (F)
2400. Computers and Art (3)
Basic course dealing with the study and use of the personal computer as a creative medium. Emphasizes hands-on software training directed toward the art of visual design and aesthetic expression. (Prerequisite: enrollment restricted to Art Majors) (F)
2600. Basic Sculpture (3)
Introduction to additive and subtractive processes in the realization of sculptural ideas. Student involvement in carving, clay modeling, and construction projects. (Recommended: Art 1020 or 1110, Art 1120 or 1150, Art 1130 or 1160) (F, Sp)
2650. Introduction to Ceramics (3)
Introduction to basic processes of ceramics and the operation of the USU ceramics lab. Includes handbuilding, throwing, and firing. (F, Sp, Su)
1050. Introduction to Photography (3)
An overview of photography. Operation of camera and related equipment, exposure and development of black and white and color positive film materials, enlarging and printing of black and white negatives with a strong emphasis on composition and photographic aesthetics. (F)
2810. Photography I (3)
Black and white photography - camera operation, exposure and development, enlarging and printing of black and white negatives with a concern for advancing technical controls, aesthetics, and darkroom experimentation. Introduction to electronic imaging. (F, Sp)
Art Education Courses
3000. Secondary Art Methods I (3)
The course focuses on developing art curricula by formulating objectives for teaching art history, art appreciation, and the making of art in the secondary schools. (Required for Art education majors) (F, Sp)
3300. Clinical Experience I (1)
First clinical practicum for the middle and secondary schools is arranged by special methods instructors in the department. (30 hours minimum are required at level 1) (Sp)
3700. Elementary Art Methods (3)
The course focuses on developing art curricula by formulating objectives for teaching art processes, art history, and art appreciation in the elementary schools. (3F, Sp)
4000. Secondary Art Methods II (3)
The course focuses on developing methodologies for presenting art concepts and techniques in the secondary schools. (Prerequisite: Secondary Art Methods I) (F)
4300. Clinical Experience II (1)
Second clinical practicum for the middle and secondary schools is arranged by special methods instructors in department. (30 hours minimum are required at level II) (F)
5500. Student Teaching Seminar (2)
Capstone Seminar focuses on student teaching issues, professional development, and principles of effective instruction, emphasizing a reflective methodology. (Prerequisites: Completion of Level I and Level II, and student teaching placement) (F, Sp)
5630. Student Teaching in Secondary Schools (8)
A ten-week culminating practicum in which students assume full-time teaching responsibilities under the direction of cooperating teachers in major and minor fields. (Prerequisites: Completion of Level I and Level II, and student teaching placement) (F, Sp)
Art History Courses
2710 (ARTH). Survey of Western Art (3)
Prehistoric through Medieval. (F)
2720 (ARTH). Survey of Western Art (3)
Renaissance through Modern. (Sp)
3110 (ARTH). Ancient Near East (3)
Survey of history and civilization of ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Israel, from prehistory to 500 B.C. Writing intensive. (F)
4620 / 6620 (ARTH) . Byzantine Art (3)
Focuses on the art and architecture of the Byzantine empire from late antiquity to the fifteenth century. In addition to including study of the visual arts, course incorporates readings in teh history of religion and gender studies. (F)
4630 / 6630 (ARTH). Medieval Art (3)
Covers art and architecture in Europe between 450 and 1450, with an emphasis on cultural diversity and artistic variety. Study of the visual arts is complemented by readings in history and literature. (Sp)
3210 (ARTH). Classical Mythology (3)
Introduces major myths of the Classical world. Explores how these myths serve as keys to understanding the documents and arts of Classical civilization. (Sp)
4510 / 6510 (ARTH). Islamic Visual Culture (3)
Explores the emergence and development of Islamic visual cultures in Asia and around the Mediterranean between 622 and 1250. (Sp)
5720 (ARTH). Central European Art (3)
Discussion-based seminar covering the traditionally neglected theme of art in Central Europe. Emphasizes modern art, with the theme of national identity as a constant concern. (F)
4610 / 6610 (ARTH). Greek and Roman Art (3)
Origin and development of the art and architecture of Crete, Mycenae, Greece and the Roman world.
4720 / 6720 (ARTH). Renaissance Art (3)
Development of European art and architecture from the thirteenth to the sixteenth centuries.
4730 / 6730 (ARTH). Baroque and Rococo Art (3)
Development of art and architecture in Europe from the sixteenth to the eighteenth centuries. (Sp)
4740 / 6740 (ARTH). Nineteenth Century Art (3)
Painting and sculpture from Neoclassicism to Symbolism.
4750 / 6750 (ARTH). Twentieth Century Art (3)
History of painting, sculpture, and architecture from the post impressionists to the present.
4760 / 6760 (ARTH). American Art (3)
History of painting, sculpture, and architecture in America from colonial times to the present. (Sp)
5710 (ARTH). Gender Issues in Art (3)
Discussion of major issues and debates regarding gender in the visual arts. Topics include: revising the canon, representing gender, and theories of gender and spectatorship. Readings are discussed and pplied to visual works of art. (Sp)
4780 (ARTH). Sacred Art: Art of the World's Major Religions (3)
Designed to give students understanding of the world's seven major religions or "wisdom traditions" (Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam) through the history of their art.
4790 (ARTH). Art History Seminar and Special Problems (1-6)
(Prerequisite: consent of instructor)
Drawing & Painting Courses
2200. Painting I (3)
Introduction to the visual language of painting. Focuses on basic oil painting techniques. In addition to providing experience in both direct and indirect painting methods, this course will also introduce applied color concepts. (Prerequisite: ART 1110 and 1120) (F)
2220. Watercolor Painting (3)
Exploration of problems in water media, for students with basic painting experience. Emphasis will be on gaining proficiency in both transparent and opaque watercolor techniques. (Prerequisite: ART 2200) (F, Sp)
3200. Painting II (3)
Continuation of concepts and techniques covered in Painting I, emphasizing more complex formal and conceptual problems. (Prerequisite: ART 2200) (Sp)
3260. Anatomy for Artists (3)
Study of principles of anatomical structure of the figure as it applies to two-dimensional and three-dimensional art media. (Prerequisite: Art 1110, 2140) (F)
3270. Color: Theory and Practice (3)
Explores both the theory and application of color in teh visual arts. Special emphasis placed on the development of applied color skills. (Su)
4100. Drawing Studio (1-9)
Independent study. Individually chosen drawing projects focusing on a central theme and specific approach. (Prerequisite: Approval of major professor) (F, Sp, Su)
4200. Advanced Painting Studio (3-6)
Advanced individual painting projects. Students may use a variety of painting methods to execute a series of closely related paintings that are intended to develop a focused and personal portfolio. (Prerequisite: ART 2200) (F, Sp)
4210. Figure Painting (3)
Painting from the model with an emphasis on solving problems of the planar structure of the human form. (Prerequisites: ART 3200 & 3260) (F, Sp)
**4220. Advanced Painting: Alternative Materials (3)
An advanced course that deals with painting methods important to Modernism and Post-Modernism. Among the materials that will be explored are collage, assemblage, and encaustic painting.
4260. Life Drawing (3)
Drawing from live models with emphasis on exploring interpretation, drawing techniques, and compositional approaches. (Prerequisite: Art 3260) (Sp)
Graphic Design Courses
ART 2400 - Computers and Art (3)
Basic course dealing with the study and use of the personal computer as a creative medium. Emphasizes hands-on software training directed toward the art of visual design and aesthetic expression. Several projects created using the computer and related peripherals. Discusses various forms of digital output and communications. Critical reviews of art projects focus on the elements and principles of visual design, as well as basic graphic design concepts. (Prerequisite: enrollment restricted to Art Majors) (F)
ART 3370 - Illustration Concepts (3)
Students learn to develop visual ideas for illustrations and carry an idea through the stages of roughs, a comprehensive and a finished image using both digital and traditional media. (Prerequisites: ART 1110 or 1140, 1120 or 1150 and 2400) (F) Repeatable for credit.
ART 3400 - Typography (3)
Introductory graphic design course, dealing with concepts and principles related to the exploration of typography as an art and design element. Series of exercises designed to give students professional and philosophical look at aesthetic and functional use of type and related visual elements. (Prerequisites: ART 1120 or 1150; and ART 2400) (Sp)
ART 3420 - Communication Arts Seminar (1)
Lecture seminars by professional guest artists in illustration and graphic design. (F, Sp) Repeatable for credit.
ART 4370 - Illustration Studio (3)
Students build and enhance their portfolio through solving a series of advanced illustration problems. Emphasis is placed on development of personal style through an examination of content, materials and techniques. Both digital and tradi-tional media will be explored. (Prerequisites: Art 3370) (Sp) Repeatable for credit.
ART 4410 - Graphic Interface Design I (3)
Concentrates on the development of graphic design techniques and theories necessary to create successful graphical user interfaces. Students explore aesthetic and functional uses of motion, sound, interactivity, information architecture, branding, and typography as they relate to graphic interface design. (Prerequisites: ART 4420, 4440, or permission of instructor) (F) Repeatable for credit.
ART 4420 - Brand Identity Design (3)
Advanced studio course focusing on the visual expression of a brand. Students will study the design and application of trademarks/logos, related brand strategies, positioning, research and analysis processes. Students will complete a series of symbol design and application projects. (Prerequisites: ART 3400) (F)
ART 4430 - Graphic Interface Design II (3)
Advanced graphic design course exploring dynamic interactivity. Students take a professional and philosophical look at the use of multimedia as it relates to business and society. Emphasis on research and the exploration of innovative ideas using interactive interface as a vehicle for communicating information. (Prerequisites: Art 4410) (Sp) Repeatable for credit.
ART 4440 - Type, Image and Visual Continuity (3)
Students examine the application of design theory and process to complex information organization systems. Focus will be upon the relationships between typography, imagery and visual continuity. Students will design varied text intensive publications and image intensive poster projects. (Prerequisites: Art 3400) (Sp)
ART 4450 - Portfolio Preparation (1-9)
This course builds students' job-seeking portfolios through lectures, critiques and studio work. Existing projects are refined and gaps are filled in with new projects. All work must meet professional standards, with focus on quality and job related subject matter. (Prerequisites: Art 4410, 4420, 4440) (F) Repeatable for credit.
ART 4470 - Special Topics in Graphic Design and Illustration (1-9)
The content of this studio course varies from semester to semester. Focus is on various issues in the field of visual communications design and allows students to pursue production of digital and traditional projects related to the topic of the course. (Prerequisite: Permission of Instructor) (F, Sp, Su) Repeatable for credit.
Illustration Courses
3350. Drawing for Illustration (3)
Emphasis will be on drawing. Drawing with a variety of media will be encouraged. Students will draw from the model in class. Homework will consist of filling two 100 page sketchbooks with drawings from life, memory or from photographs. (Sp)
*3370. Intermediate Illustration (3)
Concept. Ideas will be developed in solving problems. Problems will be given in class as well as for homework. One of these solutions will be carried through the stages of roughs, a comprehensive, and a finished piece of art. (F)
Photography Courses
1050. Introduction to Photography (3)
An overview of photography. Operation of camera and related equipment, exposure and development of black and white and color positive film materials, enlarging and printing of black and white negatives with a strong emphasis on composition and photographic aesthetics. (F)
2810. Photography I (3)
Black and white photography - camera operation, exposure and development, enlarging and printing of black and white negatives with a concern for advancing technical controls, aesthetics, and darkroom experimentation. Introduction to electronic imaging. (F, Sp)
3810. Photography II (3)
Advanced black and white photography with emphasis on the technical controls including the zone system and introduction to the 4x5 camera. Application of technical skills to enhance creative photographic expression. Continuation of digital imaging and use of computer for sensitometry graphing. (Prerequisite: Art 2810 or equivalent experience) (Sp)
*3820. Early History of Photography (3)
Early photography's history beginning before the 1839 public announcement by Daguerre and continuing through the early 20th century. Social change, invention and the fulfillment of artist's desire to represent reality are major topics in this course. (Sp)
**3830. Contemporary History of Photography (3)
Beginning with the modernist movements of the 1920's and progressing through the aesthetic, technical and communicative changes up to the contemporary uses of the medium. Examines photography's relationship to the historical changes in society, through its evolution as an art form, a commercial venue and a visual record. (Sp)
**4810. Digital Photography (3)
Continued exploration of digital photography, from computer to studio with strong ties to traditional image making. Digital image processing, use of both the software and hardware of digital photography, and a study of ethical, artistic, and personal issues will be investigated. (Prerequisite: Art 3810) (F)
**4820. 19th Century Photo Processes (3)
Introduction to hand made emulsions invented and used in the 19th century. Production of gum prints, cyanotypes, photogravures, carbon prints, and platinum prints. Explores unique visual characteristics of each process. Includes basic bookbinding. (Prerequisite: Art 3810) (F)
4830. Independent Projects in Photography (1-9)
Student - initiated, independent projects in photography. Provides opportunity for students to gain technical proficiency and aesthetic creativity. Major emphasis on critical and group discussions. (Prerequisite: Art 3810 or permission of instructor) (F, Sp, Su)
*4840. Color Photography I (3)
Introduction to the technical, conceptual, aesthetic, and digital explorationsavailable with the exposure and development of color positive and negative films. An investigation of color theory accompanied by the production of correctly balanced color prints. (Prerequisite: Art 3810) (F)
*4850. Color Photography II (3)
Continuation of study with color materials including digital investigations. Explores alternative techniques and manipulative capabilities. Stresses individual pursuit of a color print portfolio. (Prerequisite: Art 5810) (Sp)
**4860. Photographic Studio (5)
Exploration of the photographic studio, 4x5 view camera, the principles of applied lighting and the communication of an idea through photography. Commercial, editorial, portrait, and digital photography directed toward professional portfolio preparation. 4X5 camera required. (Prerequisite: Art 3810) (F) BFA Only.
**4870. Photographic Portfolio (5)
Advanced photography class in preparation for life after graduation. Strong emphasis on work toward personal professional (fine art and commercial) portfolio and written support documentation (resumes, cover letters, artist statements, etc.) (Prerequisite: Art 5830) (Sp) BFA Only.
Printmaking Courses
2230. Basic Printmaking (3)
Introductory course to acquaint the student with the broader aspects of relief, intaglio, and planographic processes. (Prerequisites: ART 1110 and 1120) (F)
3220. Screen Printing (3)
Investigation of the basic processes employed in screen printing. Includes surface preparation, image preparation, drawing techniques, registration, and printing of the screen. (Sp)
3230. Lithography (3)
An investigation of the basic processes employed in lithography to include surface preparation, basic drawing techniques, registration, processing, and printing of the stone or plate, as well as photo, transfer, and color methods. (Prerequisite: ART 2230) (F)
3240. Intaglio (3)
An investigation of the basic processes employed in intaglio to include acid (line etch, aquatint, lift grounds, soft ground) and non-acid (dry point, mezzotint, engraving) techniques as well as transfer and color methods. (Prerequisite: ART 2230) (Sp)
3250. Relief Prints (3)
Introduction to relief printing, including woodcut, lioneum cut, wood engraving. (Prerequisite: ART 2230) (F)
4250. Advanced Printmaking Studio (1-9)
In-depth investigation of one printmaking process with emphasis placed on both technical and aesthetic considerations. (Prerequisite: ART 2230) (F, Sp)
Sculpture/Ceramics Courses
2600. Basic Sculpture (3)
Introduction to additive and subtractive processes in the realization of sculptural ideas. (Prerequisites: Art 1110, Art 1120, and Art 1130) (F, Sp)
2650. Introduction to Ceramics (3)
Introduction to basic processes of ceramics and the operation of the USU ceramics lab. Includes handbuilding, throwing, and firing. (3F, Sp, Su)
3260. Anatomy for Artists (3)
Study of principles of anatomical structure of the figure as it applies to two-dimensional and three-dimensional art media. (Prerequisites: Art 1110, 2140) (F)
3610. Intermediate Sculpture (3)
Further development in the materials, techniques, and traditions of sculpture. Expands on specific explorations, such as modeling, construction, and carving. Emphasizes strong relationship between concept and the technical execution of a sculptural form. (Prerequisites: Art 2600) (F)
3650. Intermediate Ceramics. Handbuilding (3)
Application of traditional ceramic construction techniques to vessel and sculptural subjects. (Prerequisite: Art 2650) (F)
3660. Intermediate Ceramics. Throwing on the Potter's Wheel (3)
Focuses on throwing and trimming techniques using the potter's wheel. Emphasizes production of multiples. (Prerequisite: Art 2650) (Sp)
4610. Sculpture Projects (3)
Develops skills in a particular sculptural methodology. Investigates genres of publicsculpture, installation, and advanced modeling, from traditional to contemporary. (Prerequisites: Art 3610)
4620. Sculpture Seminar (3)
Designed to focus on and challenge current assumptions in regard to contemporary issues in sculpture. (Prerequisites: Art 4660)
4640. Technology of Ceramic Art (3)
Selected topics in aesthetics and technologyh of ceramic art, including ceramic history, glaze chemistry and calculation, firing techniques, kiln design and construction, etc. Students enrolling for more than 3 credits arrange credit for directed studies in specific topics. (Prerequisites: Art 3650, 3660) (F, Sp, Su)
4650. Advanced Ceramic Studio (3-6)
Provides time, equipment, and facilities for advanced students to pursue directed studies leading to personal expression through ceramic media. To be repeated during at least four semesters by art majors with ceramics emphasis. Students enrolling for more than 3 credits arrange credit for directed studies in specific topics. (F, Su)
4660. Advanced Sculpture Studio (1-9)
Advanced directed study in specific technical, aesthetic, and/or conceptual issues in sculpture. (Prerequisite: Art 4610) (Sp)
Additional Courses
2900. Introductory Internship ART Coop. (1-9)
Introductory level educational work experience in an internship/cooperative education position approved by the Department of Art. (F, Sp)
3050. Japanese Calligraphy (1)
Study of Japanese writing system through practicing the art of calligraphy. (No prerequisites)
3710. Fine Art Seminar (1)
Lecture seminars given by professionals as part of the Art Department visiting artist program. (F, Sp)
4900. Advanced Intership ART Coop.
Internship/cooperative education work experience in Art. For those students needing increased complexity and a more professional level of experience in the workplace.
4910. Senior BFA Exhibition (2)
Professional presentation and exhibition procedures. Enrollment limited to senior standing and BFA candidates only. Required for all BFA candidates. (Prerequisite: Approval of advisor) (Sp)
4930. Student Teaching at University Level (3)
Teaching methods and procedures for university-level classes, working directly with faculty in lower-division classes. (Prerequisite: Approval of instructor) (F, Sp, Su)
