SA131
2D Design
FA2015 . Prof. Pepper
 |
| thaw @ Cazenovia Lake |
The artist is a "medium." Marcel Duchamp - conceptualist
course objectives
SA 131 introduces students to the principles and concepts of design that serve as the lexicon of all visual communication. Together these components are the elements that all visual creators utilize to design, develop, describe and execute in the making of any creative work.
What makes drawing, graphic design, photography, painting, video and other 2D disciplines have the ability to prompt our attention?
Each discipline has the ability to produce objects that effectively communicate ideas visually in culture.
The design principles + concepts delivered in SA132 have a direct impact on visual applications available in all media, discipline and area of concentration including: Fashion Design, Interior Design, Studio Art, Photography and Visual Communications.
Each concept presented in this course will put into practice a variety of ideas and design situations, for a variety of purposeful outcomes.
Students will be introduced to a number of design investigations to visually explore, with an emphasis on good craftsmanship and professional presentation. There will be an emphasis on color theory and its application and disciplinary purpose. Visual perception and technical applications include both traditional tools and computer formats. Students will learn to use the principles more consciously in their work, as well as discern and discuss them in projects while recognizing them in art and design visual examples in the world around us.
Above all, it is an intentional goal of this course that students will become more conscious of the conceptual, expressive and perceptual qualities of their aesthetic decisions, so they can become effective visual communicators in what ever area of discipline they may be engaged.
Visit it regularly to keep up with new materials launched to the site daily.
Readings from books will be placed on the Reserve Shelf in the college Library.
Please contact me should you be unable to access a computer to keep up with our work.
learning objectives
As a fundamental course in understanding visual design, one intentional goal is for the beginning student is to develop experiences in the reading of 2D forms, become proficient in a structure’s interpretation, while developing the responsibility as an image-maker.
In order for students to develop as effective visual communicators, this course provides a foundational setting that provides a number of opportunities to take place. It is anticipated that the student learning outcomes will be successfully obtained, including:
- Learn the basic elements and principles of design and apply them to two-dimensional media.
- Develop and strengthen design and compositional skills.
- Develop a solid grounding in color theory and basic art and design vocabulary.
- Become proficient at following all steps in the creative process, including idea generation (brainstorming), analysis, refinement, professional presentation, and critique (critical thinking, problem-solving, written and oral communication skills).
- Select, investigate and manipulate a wide range of media.
- Understand and put into practice the fundamental visual principles in thoughtful articulate concepts and expressions.
- Develop visual literacy with a working knowledge and practice of the visual language.
- Gain a greater awareness of the art of other cultures and groups.
- Engage and improve intellectual performance by advancing towards informed responses to artistic working ideas, practices, skills and processes.
- Construct metaphoric, narrative and analogous articulations and creating bridges between representation and various translations.
- Develop group skills by working in group situations; interpersonal skills by participating in group discussions and critiques.
- Set high expectations, advance critical thinking skills and individual standards.
- Gain a deeper understanding to the world of visual ideas as well as one’s own process and production within it.
principles of design to be studied
frame
point/line
plane
shape
space
form
color > hue, value, saturation, intensity
pattern + texture
composition
time + transformation
elements of design to be studied
focal point > emphasis > organization > placement
figure / ground relationships
color systems > temperatures > psychology of
organization > compositional practices > unity
balance > portion + scale
movement
contrast
weight
+ more
media exploration
technical skill building + ongoing visual literacy refinement
exploration of the visual language that build connections to readings, research, concept + meaning
working methods
Class projects gives each student the opportunity to deepen their understanding of a 2D concept.
Class lectures, demos and studio projects will provide the opportunities for students to learn the potentials and limitations of various materials, while analyzing and applying a wide range of organizational strategies and design applications.
Frequent slide presentations, videos, readings, writing, class discussion and critique will introduce a variety of interpretations of how artists have perceived and used visual concepts and elements in their own expressive works.
Art is a Language: it takes a lifetime to become fluent. Michael James - artist
class policy
The atmosphere throughout this course is to create a community of active learners.
We need to realize that world experience produces difference in all people.
Our differences often make communication and understanding difficult to comprehend, or even agree with, when considering the ideas of others.
We need to create a safe space where individuals can interject their ideas even if they may not be reflective of others. Our space needs to be one where people are encouraged to take risks, and not worry if they don’t have the ‘right’ answer, and have the space to take a wild guess by connecting earlier information together.
Each of us need to remain an active participant in the world of learning.
The course asks each of us to cultivate a relationship of mutual respect between each other and the work at large, your faculty and guests. This respect may extend outside the walls of this community into the world in general. The key is to listen and be considerate of each other.
evaluation + grading
Students should set high standards for their own work.
Although process is an essential component of the studio a legible, refined and thoughtfully crafted representation is the expected outcome of every work.
Informed speculation and experimentation are encouraged.
Students should be able to explain the conceptual ideas underlying their work, which formal principles are being employed and be able to question and incorporate suggestions offered in critique.
Intellectual understanding and exploration of the readings and projects, ability to initiate research, and individual drive throughout each project are significant factors in grading a student’s level of participation.
Hard work and improvement are recognized. In addition to completing exquisitely crafted projects, engaged work and participation will positively impact a student’s grade.
Lack of preparation, disengagement from his/her work, avoidance of critiques, lack of participation in discussion, incomplete and not prepared work will result in a lower grade. Should a student be performing below an adequate level, the student will be notified as soon as it is evident and a meeting will be scheduled to address deficiencies.
progress + development
A student cannot rest on previous skills alone!
Students must show a willingness to explore and welcome the opportunity to take risks by:
> Demonstrate an understanding of concepts being emphasized and techniques.
> Understand vocabulary and use it effectively in discussion.
> Sustain a conscious and serious effort.
Students need to use class time effectively and develop variations even if one might think they have “completed” an assignment effectively.
> Develop and continue to cultivate self motivation!
It is expected that one hour of studio work in class is equal to one hour of class work outside of class contact hours. This course meets for a semester total of 84 in class hours.
attendance policy
Attendance and punctuality are absolutely mandatory and are significant components of your commitment to your work. It is impossible to learn if you are not here! Students are to attend class every day and be prepared with materials, assignments, readings and papers always! We have a lot of material to cover this semester; missing one class will impact on your ability to do well in this course. Absences will adversely affect your final grade. Once you have accumulated 4 absences you will not be successful to complete the course and may be asked to withdraw. Tardiness and absences will greatly hinder student progress in this course. Students who miss class, in an extreme case, are responsible for notifying faculty prior to class start time. If a student knows they will be absent, make arrangements with the instructor as soon as you are able to find out what you will/or will have missed. Students who are absent from a class are expected to be prepared with ALL assignments and readings due at the next class meeting. All assignments are to be completed in a thoughtful and timely manner.
This responsibility is yours.
methods of evaluation
Ongoing participation in class and with studio projects = 60% of final grade
The overall quality of student work is directly reflective on one’s involvement with the class and outside studio practice. Strong participation will naturally impact student development and therefore, grade positively. These are both the minor projects that emphasize development of fundamental design principles, methods explorations and media advancement, and the final major project at the semester’s conclusion. Reworking of a project after the initial critique will be allowed at the discretion of the instructor. Student work is graded on imagination, originality, concept, process, understanding and implementation of design principles, craftsmanship and a successful solution to the problem given. The safe way is not the best way in visual production, taking risks and experimentation are vital in keeping one’s work fresh and exciting. Incomplete projects will receive an F.
The Sketchbook / Journal = 25%
Ongoing work in student journals/sketchbooks include >
- Take thorough notes in and out of class.
- Each concept introduced requires a minimum of 2 found visual entries, deconstructed by the formal elements of design*. See Visual Deconstruction post
- Develop thumbnail and sketches of a concepts introduction.
- Continue to use as a depository for all of your research notes.
- Other activities outlined by the instructor.
- Bring to class each day.
Multi media presentations + research papers = 15% of final grade
Research is an expectation of all students. At different points in the semester, students will be assigned a specific research topic that will be compiled electronically and delivered to the class. A formal research paper will accompany the presentation that illustrates thorough research practices and information on the selected subject.
undergraduate grading policy
Grades calculated in grade point average (GPAs) + numerical scale
A = 4.0 A- = 3.67
B+ = 3.33 B = 3.00 B- = 2.67
C+ = 2.33 C = 2.00 C- = 1.67
D+ = 1.33 D = 1.00 F = 0.00
A 93 – 100% A- 90 – 92%
B+ 87 – 89% B 83 – 86% B- 80 – 82%
C+ 77 – 79% C 73 – 76% C- 70 – 72%
D+ 67 – 69% D 63 – 66% D- 60 – 62% F below 60%
Standards for Grading
A: The typical "A" student will consistently follow all of the steps in the creative process, resulting in work that is beyond the students’ previous technical, conceptual and expressive capabilities. Equally important, the A student will conduct research, integrate information from other classes and experiences, follow through on ideas, not opt for an easy way out, will hand in work on time and in a well presented manner, will participate fully in class, ask questions and do extra work when needed in the pursuit of knowledge and greater ability. The work produced is exemplary and sets a benchmark for other students; actively participating in class discussions and critiques with a sustained high level of curiosity. In short, the A student will be a responsible and active learner throughout. Superior work.
B: Attend all classes and complete all assignments on time; follow all instructions, demonstrate above average skills and creativity in completing assignments, turn in consistently good work though some further development of knowledge and skills is possible; frequently contribute to discussions and critiques. Good work.
C: Have less than perfect attendance; complete all assignments with average skills, attitude and creativity demonstrating limited commitment to the learning process, average use of materials, and ideas that need further development. Occasionally contribute to class discussions and critiques. Satisfactory work.
D: Have poor attendance; seldom meet deadlines, have an unconcerned attitude, has less than adequate performance; contribute very little to class discussions and critiques. Barely passing.
F: Have poor attendance; seldom meet deadlines; turn in poor work; have a bad attitude, and/or impervious to the learning process.
special needs students
Notify the instructor if you are a student who requires accommodations in classroom studio or outside work due to special needs. Appropriate accommodations will be made in cooperation with the Office of Special Services @ 315-655-7170
academic honesty policy
Plagiarism will not be tolerated. Any student who turns in plagiarized work will fail the course and be possibly dismissed from the college. A description of plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty are to be found in the on-line Student Handbook @ www.cazenovia.edu
materials for the course
This is a very general list of necessary materials.
Other materials may be requested for certain projects during the semester.
Students may need materials specific to their individual projects.
Tool box or container to keep supplies organized
Sharpie marker fine / extra fine
Drawing pencils (2B, 4B, H and any others you like)
White plastic eraser
Scissors
Pencil sharpener
11” x 14” Bristol Board pad (or 90 lb sketch vellum); Illustration board as needed
metal ruler 18"
Xacto knife AND extra blades
Glue or matte medium, glue stick
Small Color pencil set
8 x 10" (or larger) blank Sketchbook – hard bound or spiral
Gouache kit from bookstore (if you already have acrylic paints, speak to me)
Brushes – small and medium size suitable for acrylic / watercolor + inexpensive 1” brush
Blue Painters' tape - or Art /Drafting tape
Tracing paper, Illustration board and other supplies purchase as needed
Thumb drive or external HD
SA131.02
meets three times a week M - W + F from 8 - 10 am in Coleman Studios
