Art

This course surveys western art chronologically from prehistory through the fifteenth century. Discussions center on understanding various civilizations through their visual arts, the cultural exchange between these civilizations, and how images are used for political, economic, religious, and social purposes. Students gain familiarity with movements, time periods, and individual works of art. Students learn to identify works of art, are introduced to art terminology, practice the fundamentals of visual analysis, and develop the ability to analyze the content and contexts of works of art.

This course surveys Western art chronologically from the Renaissance period to the present day. Guiding themes within this course, such as patronage, gender, identity, political/religious turmoil, colonialism, and global trade, will introduce students to why certain types of art are created and how these works of art function within society. Students gain familiarity with movements, time periods, and individual artists. Students learn to identify works of art, are introduced to art terminology, practice the fundamentals of visual analysis, and develop the ability to analyze the content and contexts of works of art.

The course surveys African, Asian, Native American, Oceanic, and Pre-Columbian arts from pre-history to the present day. This course is defined by what it will not cover - art of the European tradition. The term "non-western" does not imply a lesser quality or an opposition to art in western tradition. It is a term used to reflect a growing awareness of the richness and diversity of world culture. Since this is a survey course, the art we will examine will be the most representative of each culture. Students gain familiarity with movements, time periods, and individual artists. Students learn to identify works of art, are introduced to art terminology, practice the fundamentals of visual analysis, and develop the ability to analyze the content and contexts of works of art.

This course examines the history of art through the lens of disability studies. Utilizing the social model of disability studies, which recognizes disability as a social construct, this course will explore how visual media propagates constructs of body image, mental health, and dis/ability identity. Examinations will futher trace intersections between the construct of disability and other idientity constructions such a sexuality and gender, race and ethnicity, and class. Discussion will center on visuals arts within the western world in the last three centuries, but conversations will often extend to include performance art forms as well as broader historical and global perspectives.

This seminar investigates the diversity of global visual art practices through thematic topics such as activism, nature, identity, gender, memory, spirituality, colonialism, consumerism, beauty, participation, globalization, and science. Students will examine how practices, beliefs, systems and narratives have come under critique and are challenged by visual artists as well as how alternatives to these practices, beliefs, systems and narratives proposed by visual artists can lead to transformation. Emphasis is placed on contemporary art practices, but students are encouraged to consider artwork within larger historical and cultural contexts. Course discussions introduce students to aesthetic and theoretical developments, examine significant critical debates within the art world and explore various historical, stylistics and methodological questions raised within the visual arts and art history.

Prerequisite: ARH-1020 or permission of the instructor.

Arranged course involving travel and on-site investigation of art and architecture.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

A topical course designed to investigate relevant subject matter not included in any standard courses. The title and the content will be determined by current mutual interests of students and faculty. This course may be offered to meet a requirement for a major only by approval of the department chair.

This is a research course. The student initially meets with the department chair to select a study topic and review research methods. At this time the student will be assigned a faculty resource person to guide his or her work and assist in an advisory capacity. A copy of the student's work is filed in the archives for the department. Independent Study may not duplicate courses described in the catalog.
Prerequisite(s): Senior standing and permission of the department chair.

Study of age- and developmentally-appropriate philosophy, methodology, processes, and content for visual arts instruction in the elementary schools. Includes strategies for teaching art criticism, art history, art media and techniques, aesthetics, and developing curriculum for the elementary school art program. Students will engage in constructing and solving a series of design problems via a range of 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional art processes. Laboratory and teaching experiences in elementary schools as well as assigned readings, reflective writings, lecture/presentations, hands-on activities, and classroom discussions are provided. Required for certification of elementary teachers and K-12 art endorsements. Cannot be applied toward a major in art.
Cross listed with EDUC-1000.

This course gives students a working comprehension of the elements and principles of design in a variety of media.  Students are expected to develop a strong studio work ethic, increase creative problem-solving capabilities, and discover ways to communicate ideas visually.  Students learn through making, self-reflection, and critique to develop a verbal/visual vocabulary that forms the foundation for the future study of art.

A studio art investigation of basic design and color theory, composition, and use of light as it relates to painting. Experimentation with the technical processes of painting such as underpainting, scumbling, blending paint, glazing, and varnishing. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together.  The course requirements of each level are different.

An introductory studio art class focusing on the creative, expressive potential of digital media with an emphasis on building a formal foundation utilizing image processing software, HTML and CSS. Projects begin by critically engaging with local visual culture. Discussions will be held on current issues surrounding digital media and field trips to local design hubs will supplement the classroom activities. Students will improve their visual literacy while becoming proficient in using a variety of tools, processes and design elements to create work with real-world applications. Students will participate directly in the campus and wider community by collaborating with university and local organizations to develop these projects that will be utilized in the community.

An introduction to drawing by surveying its use as a foundation for future study in all 2D and 3D media. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.

Introduction to the techniques of printmaking; relief print, serigraph, intaglio, and lithography. Emphasis on the study of the print as a multiple original with introductory edition printing. Focus on basic design concepts with introductory historical investigation related to printmaking. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.

An introduction to the basic tools and techniques of digital photography. Focus on the technical craft of using the camera, creating digital prints, and interpreting photographs. Discussion and development of student vocabulary related to subject matter, form, and content of the photographic image in the context of historical and contemporary photographic concerns. Emphasis on student development of a creative problem-solving process related to photographic image-making. This is not a course in professional commercial photography, rather is situated within a fine-art photographic dialogue. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.

Students will develop a basic foundation and understanding of clay – its nature, attributes, possibilities, and limitations – through basic handbuilding and throwing techniques.  Focus on appreciation for clay as a medium for personal and artistic expression. Additionally, the study and understanding of historical and contemporary works in clay will help each student better understand the material and its place in history. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together.  The course requirements of each level are different. No Pass/Fail.

This course is an introduction to the basic language of sculpture, spatial concepts and technical processes as they relate to sculptural practices.  Students will investigate three-dimensional design principles, sculptural strategies, and themes employed throughout history and contemporary object making.  A broad range of processes and versatile materials are explored including tools and equipment used in metal and wood fabrication, plaster mold making, and additive and subtractive construction methods.  In addition, students will gain knowledge and observe professional standards of shop conduct and safety. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together.  The course requirements of each level are different.

Introduction to the basic tools and techniques of metalsmithing for use in body ornament or as small sculptural form. Broad studio art exploration in the techniques of sheet metal construction including cutting, piercing, soldering, mechanical joining, surface embellishment, and finishing. Emphasis on historical metalsmithing in relationship to contemporary attitudes in metalsmithing. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together.  The course requirements of each level are different.

A topical course designed to investigate any relevant subject matter not included in any of the standard beginning-level courses. The title, content, and credit will be determined by the faculty member who is offering the course. This course may be offered to meet a requirement for a major only by approval of the department chair.

A survey of teaching visual arts education in the secondary schools (grades 7-12). Emphasis on administration, organization, curriculum, and philosophy of art in education. Required for K-12 art certification. Cannot be applied toward a major in art. Cannot be applied toward a major or minor in art.
Cross listed with EDUC 2000.
Prerequisite(s): 15 hours of art and acceptance into the Teacher Education Program or permission of the chair of Department of Education.

A continuation of studio art investigation of color theory and use of light with added emphasis on the relationship between composition and content informed by historical painting concepts. Experimentation with the technical processes of direct and indirect painting. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together.  The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 1100 Painting 1

This course builds appreciation for time-based media in a fine art context. Students develop skills in video production and editing. They develop creative problem solving skills, including various methods of ideation and visual communication for self-expression. Engagement with the surrounding community is an essential part of the course that connects student learning to the wider world.

A class focused on the human figure and portrait. Basic anatomy, movement, and composition will be covered by having each class session with a model. This class will benefit students who are interested in all artistic media by giving them an understanding of the human form. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 1300 Introduction to Drawing

An examination of one print form (relief, serigraphy, intalgio, lithography, or digital printmaking) focused on the study of composition and content as it relates to the technical and formal considerations of that particular medium. Emphasis on the use of color and color theory. Edition printing. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 1400 Printmaking 1

Students build on the technical knowledge and skill gained in Photography 1 to develop and understanding of the relationship between form and content. Students will increase their awareness of contemporary photography and begin to express themselves through photography. They will work on describing and analyzing images verbally and in writing. This is not a course in professional commercial photography, rather is situated within a fine-art photographic dialogue. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 1500 Photography 1: Digital.

An introduction to the basic tools and techniques of darkroom photography. Focus on the technical craft of using the camera, creating silver gelatin prints, and interpreting photographs. Discussion and development of student vocabulary related to subject matter, form, and content of the photographic image in the context of historical and contemporary photographic concerns. Engagement with local and regional photographic community. Emphasis on student development of a creative problem-solving process related to photographic image-making. This is not a course in professional commercial photography, rather is situated within a fine-art photographic dialogue. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 1500 Introduction to Photography.

Exploration of complex methods of handbuilding and throwing techniques, as well as conceptual problem solving in clay. Basic theoretical study of clays, glazes, kilns, and firing. Emphasis on ceramics in a historical context in relationship to contemporary attitudes in clay. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together.  The course requirements of each level are different. Prerequisite(s): ART 1600 Introduction to Ceramics

This course builds on skills learned in Sculpture I while introducing advanced techniques using metal and wood fabrication, non-traditional art making materials, and contemporary themes.  Students will continue to investigate spatial strategies, develop artist statements, and continue to further their knowledge of tools, equipment and materials, as well as observe professional standards of shop conduct and safety. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together.  The course requirements of each level are different. Prerequisite(s): ART 1700 Introduction to Sculpture

Exploration of metalsmithing forming techniques with an emphasis on conceptual problem- solving and personal expression in metalsmithing. Studio exploration in stretching and angle raising of sheet metal, forging, repousse, and chasing. Study of historical and contemporary metalsmithing are used as foundations for design and ideation. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together.  The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 1800 Introduction to Metalsmithing

A topical course designed to investigate any relevant subject matter not included in any of the standard advanced-level courses. The title, content, and credit will be determined by the faculty member who is offering the course. This course may be offered to meet a requirement for a major only by approval of the department chair.

This is a research course. The student initially meets with the department chair to select a study topic and review research methods. At this time the student will be assigned a faculty resource person to guide his or her work and assist in an advisory capacity. A copy of the student's work is filed in the archives for the department. Independent study may not duplicate courses described in the catalog.

Supervised, advanced-level projects not included in any of the standard courses. Normally developed for an individual student but may be arranged for a small group of students.
Prerequisite(s): 9 hours of art and permission of the instructor.

An on-the-job supervised training experience with a business or non-profit organization, such as an art gallery, professional art studio, or business utilizing art or design. A minimum of 3 hours of work per week for each hour of credit
Pass/Fail only.
Prerequisite(s): A major in art or permission of the department chair and permission of the sponsoring agency.

In a seminar format, this course will survey different methodological and theoretical approaches to the art criticism and art production of the twentieth century.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

This is a hybrid studio/seminar course that familiarizes course participants with the socio-political issues on the NWU campus as well as at the local, state and national level, then develop creative strategies for personal growth and community transformation. In a supportive environment, we will challenge ourselves to look deeply at our own biases regarding race, gender, sexuality, socioeconomic class and the natural environment. Each semester the course is offered, it will focus on a particular one of the areas mentioned above. We will investigate the issues through listening to guest speakers followed by
open dialogue among students and faculty. Students will become familiar with the intersections of art and activism through lectures and discussions as well as their own research, which they will present orally to the class. In the second half of the semester students will begin developing their own socially engaged art projects with the support of the class feedback and from one of the class visitors. Initial projects will be on a small scale in a familiar environment. Subsequent projects will build on the knowledge and experience gained from the first projects. Teamwork and collaboration is encouraged.

See PSYCH 3050 Art Therapy.

Continued investigation of the relationship between composition and content informed by historical painting concepts. Emphasis on introductory individual student research in form and content through experimentation with tools, additive elements, and surfaces. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 2100 Intermediate Painting.

This course builds on the skills introduced in ART 1200 and ART 2200 as well as ART 1050. Students will hone their video skills and design sensibility through self-designed projects with the supervision of the professor. Engagement with the surrounding community is an essential part of the course that connects student learning to the wider world. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 1200 Introduction to Digital Media and ART 2200 Intermediate Digital Media: Time Based.

A class treating drawing as a medium in itself. The student will create individually guided work informed by contemporary theory and art history with the close supervision of the professor. Group critiques will be included in the class. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 2300 Intermediate Drawing

Examination of one print form (relief, serigraphy, intaglio, lithography, or digital printmaking) with emphasis on the study of composition and content as it relates to the technical and formal considerations of the particular medium. Edition printing. Opportunity for introductory student research and an emphasis on the relationship of media to the form and content. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 2400 Printmaking 2

Students use the technical knowledge and skill gained in Photography1 & 2 to express themselves through photographic media. They will increase their ability to describe and analyze images verbally and in writing. At this point they will have a well-rounded knowledge of contemporary photographers, photographic processes and issues. Experimental processes may be explored at this stage. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 2500 Intermediate Photography

Focus on the balance of technical competence in both thrown and handbuilt clay forms and engagement with aesthetic concerns. Emphasis on introductory individual student research in form and conceptual problems. Study of clay and glaze chemistry. Emphasis on ceramics in a historical context in relationship to contemporary attitudes in clay. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together.  The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 2600 Intermediate Ceramics

This course builds on technical skills and historic and contemporary themes addressed in Sculpture I and Sculpture II while introducing advanced spatial strategies of three dimensional object –based installation and site specific work.  In addition, students will present thoughtful research on contemporary artists that inform their studio practices, continue to develop artist statements, and observe professional standards of shop conduct and safety. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together.  The course requirements of each level are different. Prerequisite(s): ART 2700 Intermediate Sculpture

Students will continue their exploration of form and content by combining experimentation with both technical competence and aesthetic concerns of the medium. Experimentation with advanced techniques will include constructing mechanisms and casting. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together.  The course requirements of each level are different. Prerequisite(s): ART 2800 Metalsmithing 2

A topical course designed to investigate any relevant subject matter not included in any of the standard beginning-level courses. The title, content, and credit will be determined by the faculty member who is offering the course. This course may be offered to meet a requirement for a major only by approval of the department chair.

This is a research course. The student initially meets with the department chair to select a study topic and review research methods. At this time the student will be assigned a faculty resource person to guide his or her work and assist in an advisory capacity. A copy of the student's work is filed in the archives for the department. Independent study may not duplicate courses described in the catalog.
Prerequisite(s): Senior standing or permission of the department chair.

Supervised individual projects for students on topics selected by the student in consultation with the instructor. Special Projects may not duplicate courses described in the catalog.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

This course allows students to participate at a meaningful level in an internship with a public official, political figure, public agency, campaign or interest group and to use that experience as the basis for an academic paper.
Pass/Fail only.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the department chair.

 To be taken during the spring semester of the junior year.  Students will begin to formulate an inclusive portfolio of their work and a thesis for presentation in the Senior Comprehensive. Students will participate in regularly scheduled portfolio critiques and will be required to address relevant questions in a comprehensive written thesis. 
Meets concurrently with the Senior Comprehensive course. 
Prerequisite(s): Junior status and permission of department chair.

Continuation of exploration of historical painting concepts and individual research. Emphasis on student directed content, problems, and solutions within the context of painting techniques that result in a body of work. May be repeated for credit. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 3100 Painting 3

Students in this course develop at least one of the technical skills learned in previous digital media courses to a professional or internship level. They practice methods of reflection, soul searching and nurturing creativity to develop a sustainable, iterative working process, which will be applied during the course to develop one or more works that will become a component of the thesis exhibition. May be repeated for credit. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 3200 Advanced Digital Media: Time Based Design

The student is expected to prepare a cohesive portfolio of drawings for graduate application and exhibition opportunities. A written component will be due with the portfolio. Study of advanced critical theory and group critiques will be included in the class. May be repeated for credit. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 3300 Advanced Drawing

Examination of one student-selected print form (relief, serigraphy, intalgio, lithography, or digital printmaking) with emphasis on the study of composition and content as it relates to the technical and formal considerations of the particular medium. Emphasis on student directed content, problems and solutions within the context of a printmaking medium that results in a body of work. May be repeated for credit. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 3400 Advanced Printmaking

Independently driven projects are the core of this course. Students follow their interests and skills developed in previous semesters of photography to a professional or internship level. They will engage in creative inquiry, research and self-reflection to develop a body of work that is contextualized in the wider art world. May be repeated for credit. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 3500 Photography 3

Continued concern with a balance of technical competence in both thrown and handbuilt clay forms and an engagement with aesthetic concerns. Emphasis on student directed content, problems, and solutions within the context of ceramics that result in a body of work. Exploration of current trends and issues in ceramics as related to individual student research. May be repeated for credit. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together.  The course requirements of each level are different. 
Prerequisite(s): ART 3600 Advanced Ceramics

This course builds on technical skills and historic and contemporary themes addressed in all previous Sculpture course while introducing concepts of an interdisciplinary studio practice, blurring the lines between traditional studio disciplines and investigating time-based strategies.  Students will present thoughtful research on contemporary artists that inform their studio practices, continue to develop artist statements, and observe professional standards of shop conduct and safety. May be repeated for credit. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together.  The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 3700 Advanced Sculpture

Students will continue to explore current trends and issues in metalsmithing in relationship to their individual research concerns.  Emphasis on student directed content, problems, and solutions within the context of metalsmithing that result in a body of work. May be repeated for credit. Various levels (1-4) of this studio art medium may meet together. The course requirements of each level are different.
Prerequisite(s): ART 3800 Metalsmithing 3

A topical course designed to investigate relevant subject matter not included in any standard courses. The title and the content will be determined by current mutual interests of students and faculty. This course may be offered to meet a requirement for a major only by approval of the department chair.

An opportunity for students, under the supervision of a faculty member, to pursue scientific literature not covered in other coursework.

This is a research course. The student initially meets with the department chair to select a study topic and review research methods. At this time the student will be assigned a faculty resource person to guide his or her work and assist in an advisory capacity. A copy of the student's work is filed in the archives for the department. Independent Study may not duplicate courses described in the catalog.
Prerequisite(s): Senior standing and permission of the department chair.

Supervised individual projects for students on topics selected by the student in consultation with the instructor. Special Projects may not duplicate courses described in the catalog.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

An on-the-job supervised training experience with a business or non-profit organization, such as an art gallery, professional art studio, or business utilizing art or design. A minimum of 3 hours of work per week for each hour of credit
Pass/Fail only.
Prerequisite(s): A major in art and permission of the department chair and the sponsoring agency.

Designed to prepare seniors in art for graduation, this course includes experiences in planning, promoting, and opening a senior gallery exhibition. Students and instructor will work together to prepare professional resumes and portfolios, which include a written artist statement. Includes a gallery talk, presentation to the public, and an exit evaluation by the art department faculty.
Prerequisite(s): ART 3980 Junior Project and art history courses.