LARTS 291 Visual Arts Studio
Visual Arts Studio is a studio course introducing the fundamentals of visual art, with a focus on freehand drawing techniques and watercolor painting. In the first part of the semester, students will learn the basic techniques of working from observation: from fast gesture sketches and blind contour drawing to using 2D perspective to create an illusion of three-dimensional space and form using line and value. During the second part, students will be introduced to the basic techniques of working with watercolor, from “a la prima” (wet on wet) to “layering,” from fast sketches to long term pieces. Classroom exercises and experiments will be accompanied by homework activities. Working from observation will be complemented by abstract assignments; we will study a realistic approach as well as more expressionistic attitudes. Group critiques and museum visits will inspire the discussion and understanding of the process. This course is designed for beginners as well as for more experienced students.