Requirements and Curriculum
Note: This information reflects the 2007-08 course catalog.
Requirements
Required for a major : A minimum of 36 hours in the department, including three courses selected from 120, 140 (or 145 or 345), 150, and 230; 271 and 273; 485 and 490; additional hours earned in courses other than 105, 110, and 380. Students should consult their art faculty member to design a program of additional electives to meet the needs of their educational and preprofessional goals.
Exhibition requirement: Every senior art major is required to have an exhibition of artwork in accordance with guidelines established by the department.
Required for a minor: A minimum of 22 hours in the department, including three courses selected from 120, 140 (or 145 or 345), 150, and 230; two courses selected from 110, 271, 273; additional hours selected from studio courses. Art minors may elect to exhibit their work in the senior year if there is room in the gallery schedule.
Required for certification to teach Art K-6 and 7-12: Completion of the art major, completion of the K-12 minor, art/education 228 and student teaching at elementary and secondary levels. See education department for K-12 minor requirements.
Art Management Program: The program in art management is described in this catalog under Special Programs.
Curriculum
105 Introduction to the Visual Arts: Studio 4 hours
A general introduction to studio work in the visual arts. Emphasis upon acquiring a basic understanding of materials as applied to form, surface and expression. No prerequisite. (HE)
110 Introduction to the Visual Arts: History 4 hours
A general introduction to history of the visual arts from prehistoric times to the present day. Emphasis upon acquiring a basic understanding of form, style, and content in architecture, painting, sculpture, and the other arts. No prerequisite. (HE)
120 Drawing I 4 hours
Drawing for prospective art majors as well as students with little or no experience. Emphasis on improving visual awareness and hand-eye coordination, through a disciplined study of line, shape, linear perspective, light and cast shadow. Subject matter includes still life, nature, and the human figure. Primarily in black and white media, with some introduction to picture composition. No prerequisite. (HE)
121 Foundations: Art and Design 4 hours
This course introduces students to the basic elements of visual language through a variety of studio projects and media. Art majors and minors are strongly encouraged to take this course prior to other studio art courses. (HE)
122 Foundations: Art in Context 2 hours
This course introduces students to current art in the context of history and culture by using examples of contemporary art to investigate art’s language, its purpose, and its cultural and historical import. Art majors and minors are strongly encouraged to take this course prior to the art history survey courses.
139, 239, 339, 439 Special Topics Credit arr.
140 Pottery 4 hours
A rigorous introductory course for students with little or no experience. The emphasis is on producing functional pottery with stoneware clay and glazes. Assignments include: handbuilding methods using pinch, coil and slab construction; decorating with slips, engobes and glazes; and throwing on the potter’s wheel. German Bauhaus pottery techniques are exemplified with reading assignments and slide lectures on other pottery traditions throughout the world. No prerequisite. (HE)
145 Sculpture 4 hours
An introductory course for students with little or no experience. Starting with relatively simple projects, individuals progress through various methods of sculptural expression and are introduced to concepts and skills in modeling and basic casting techniques. Projects include different forms of relief, sculpting in the round, and casting. Materials encompass bronze, clay, glass, plaster, plasteline, and wax. No prerequisite. (HE)
150 Weaving 4 hours
An introduction to the process of traditional weaving and contemporary fiber work for those with little or no experience in the area. Experiments with color, texture, pattern and design will be done using a variety of looms and yarns. No prerequisite. (HE)
185 First-year Seminar 4 hours
A variety of seminars for first-year students offered each January term.
228 Art in Elementary Schools 2 hours
Introduction to theories of creativity, developmental stages in art and methods of teaching visual art to children K-6. Basics in appreciation and use of materials will also be stressed. Students pursuing a K-6 art academic endorsement or a K-12 art education minor should register for art/educ 228 and art 228L. Prerequisite: education 115/185, or consent of instructor. (Same as education 228.)
228L Art in Elementary Schools Lab 1 hour
Students pursuing a K-6 art academic endorsement or a K-12 art education minor should register for art/educ 228 and art 228L. The lab will consist of a 15 hour clinical placement in an area art classroom. Coreq: art 228.
230 Painting I 4 hours
An introduction to painting techniques and color theory in oil. Subject matter includes still life, landscape, and the human figure in a variety of experiments from realism to abstraction. Prerequisite: 120, or consent of instructor. (HE)
235 Watercolor 4 hours
An introduction to the materials and techniques of painting in watercolor. Some work will be done outdoors in and around Decorah. Offered alternate years. Prerequisite: 120. (HE)
240 Intermediate Claywork 4 hours
For students with experience working in clay. Projects are designed to challenge and develop aesthetic/conceptual ideas and technical abilities, through sculptural form, be it functional or non-functional. Although some projects can be completed using the potter’s wheel, this course will introduce and place emphasis on other forming methods. Requirements include: extruded forms; plaster mold construction for press molds; slip casting or wax casting for bronze; experimenting with decorating, glazing and firing processes (i.e. raku, salt, saggar, low temperature glaze) and the utilization of different claybodies. Prerequisite: 140 or 145, or consent of instructor.
250 Introduction to Book Arts 4 hours
This course is designed to give participants a wide range of experiences in book arts techniques and topics. Studio activities will include both Eastern and Western book binding, papermaking, Turkish marbling and suminagashi, and paste paper. Students will be introduced to using the computer as a design tool. (HE)
255 Computer Art I 4 hours
Fundamentals of Computer Art. A studio class for introducing the computer as a tool in creative visual work. Basic software and hardware will be used in production of visual art works. The student will also explore ethical and intellectual dilemmas surrounding this burgeoning medium. This course introduces theory and practice of two-dimensional design concepts and color theory. A variety of media will be used. Individual and group problem solving skills will be emphasized. Deadlines and regular critiques will form the core of this course. (HE)
260 Design I: Picture Composition 4 hours
This course examines the theory and practice of two-dimensional design concepts. A variety of media, assignments which emphasize problem solving skills and deadlines and regular critiques form the core of this course. Introduction to the computer and color theory will be explored. Prerequisite: 120.
264 Scandinavian Fine Handcrafts 4 hours
Working in a variety of natural materials, which may include raw wool, various yarns, wood, horn, bone, or birch bark, students will produce traditional useful objects with a Scandinavian aesthetic. Use of Vesterheim’s collection along with studio experience. No prerequisite. (HE)
265 Photography 4 hours
An introduction to the art and science of still photography including camera concepts and techniques along with various darkroom procedures. Discussion focuses on good composition and lighting, production and utilization of photos, the history of photography, and the philosophies and techniques of leading American photographers. Adjustable 35 mm camera required. (HE)
266 Printmaking 4 hours
Introduction to the basic materials and methods of relief and intaglio printmaking. Prerequisite: 120 or consent of instructor. (HE)
271 Prehistoric Through Medieval Art 4 hours
Survey course in history of western art: prehistoric through the 13th century. Architecture, sculpture, painting, other arts. No prerequisite. Offered alternate years. (HEPT, W, R)
273 Renaissance Through 20th Century Art 4 hours
Survey course in history of western art from the 14th century to the present. Architecture, sculpture, painting, other arts. No prerequisite, but 271 recommended. Offered alternate years. (HEPT, W, R)
320 Drawing II 4 hours
A continuation of the concepts and techniques explored in Drawing I, with additional emphasis upon composition, mixed media, and rendering in color. Prerequisite: 120.
330 Painting II 4 hours
A continuation of Painting I—oil painting or watercolor painting. Problems designed in consultation with the instructor. Prerequisite: 230 or 235.
345 Bronze Casting 4 hours
Participants in this course will develop self-inspired concepts and ideas into objects that are conducive to the aesthetic nature of bronze and the technical demands of the casting and finishing process. Emphasis is on exploring and developing forming techniques best suited to each project including direct modeling in wax and indirect forming and molding processes. Students are required to participate in foundry activities as part of a casting team as well as finish properly executed ideas in bronze. No prerequisite. (HE)
349 Norwegian Folk Art 4 hours
Exploring the artistic, cultural, and historical aspects of folk art created in Norway from the Middle Ages through the end of the 19th century, students will gain a knowledge of traditional Norwegian values, customs, beliefs, and way of life. Extensive use of material objects as well as slides of traditional Norwegian folk art, including architecture. (Same as foreign culture 349 and Scandinavian studies 349.) (HE)
360 Design II: Graphic Art and Publication Design 4 hours
This course is a continuation of the concepts and techniques explored in Design I. Emphasis on topics related to commercial graphics, advertising and publications. Topics include: letter design and type face, layout, logo and letterhead, continuation of computer generated image, illustration, and print media techniques. Portfolio preparation will be stressed. Prerequisite: 260
377 Art in Cultural Perspective 2 or 4 hours
Historical art courses focusing on specific topics and/or periods, including the Art of West Africa, the Bauhaus, the History of the Book, and 20th Century American Painting. Number of hours, prerequisites, and course content will be announced.
380 Internship 1-8 hours
Studio, on-the-job learning experience, with a professional artist or firm. A plan must be submitted for approval before the internship begins. Normally available for seniors only. Does not count toward hours in major.
384 Studio Projects 1, 2 or 4 hours
A continuation in any of the studio areas offered. Projects arranged in consultation with appropriate instructor. Prerequisite: all prior studio courses offered in the area to be studied and consent of the instructor.
395 Independent Study 1, 2 or 4 hours
455 Computer Art II 4 hours
A studio class for the advanced use of the computer as a tool in creative visual work and multimedia. This course will cover creation of advanced 3D animation as well as interactive and web-based media. The student will also examine the ethical and intellectual dilemmas surrounding this burgeoning medium. Prerequisites: 255, or consent of instructor.
466 Business Practices for Visual Arts 4 hours
This course explores various facets of professionalism as they relate to different mediums in the visual arts. Emphasis is on developing professional skills associated with photographing art works, formal communication, resume writing, portfolio development, cost analysis and record keeping. Various strategies involving the making, pricing, marketing and advertising of art are thoroughly investigated. Legalities related to copyright, liabilities and taxes are also discussed. Each student will interview various art-employed professionals and research the expenses inherent in being a self-employed artist. Offered alternate years. Prerequisite: twelve credits in art, or consent of instructor. (HE)
485 Art Seminar 2 hours
This capstone seminar explores theoretical and ethical issues, contemporary aesthetics, critical theory and analysis of contemporary art. Writing in the discipline comprises a significant component of the course as students develop abilities in analyzing, critiquing and responding to works of art, and in writing artist statements, essays, and reviews. Students also present examples of their own work for in-class oral critique by peers as a means of improving oral communications skills. Required for students majoring in art. Junior art majors and minors may petition the department to enroll in this course. Prerequisite: 122, 271, 273 and 3 studio art courses at the 200 level or above.
490 Senior Project and Exhibition 1 hour
Students propose a self-directed project to either create a body of artwork for exhibition or to conduct research on an art-related topic for presentation. All students are required to exhibit work publicly. Student proposals outline one of two options, which are submitted to the faculty for approval. Option A: a combined Senior Project and Senior Exhibition will consist of the preparation of a significant body of new work for exhibition in a solo or collaborative exhibition around a carefully chosen theme. Installing the exhibition, including an artist’s statement, is part of the project, as is fully documenting the installed show with quality photographic images of the individual pieces and of the exhibit in its entirety. Option B: a Senior Exhibition and a Senior Project that are separate in form and content. Projects consist of researching a significant art-related topic and preparing an appropriate presentation of the results of the research. In addition to presenting project results, students selecting Option B are also required to exhibit art work they have created (new work strongly encouraged), generally in a joint or group show that may be less extensive than the combined project/exhibition of Option A. Prerequisite: senior status or consent of instructor.
493 Senior Honors Project 4 hours
A year-long independent research project. Applications are completed on the “Honors Program” form available at the registrar’s office, requiring the signatures of a faculty supervisor, the department head, the honors program director, and the registrar. Interdisciplinary projects require the signatures of two faculty supervisors. The project must be completed by the due date for senior projects. The completed project is evaluated by a review committee consisting of the faculty supervisor, another faculty member from the major department, and a faculty member from outside the major department. All projects must be presented publicly. Only projects awarded an “A-” or “A” qualify for “department honors” designation. The honors project fulfills the all-college senior project requirement.