Courses

An informed appreciation of the visual arts is developed through analysis and comparison of artworks of diverse cultures and selected historical periods. Emphasis is on expressive content, visual form and iconography, aesthetic principles and functions of art. Does not meet requirements for art major or minor.

No prerequisite.

An overview of digital media technology used in electronic publication design, digital illustration and digital imaging. Established and evolving approaches are examined with emphasis on the development of basic competencies with the Macintosh operating system. No previous experience is necessary.

No prerequisite.

The basic concepts of visual literacy, techniques, materials and traditional subject matter are used to develop skills in drawing and fundamental concepts of art. Emphasis will be on composition and production of drawing projects and aesthetic and formal principles that inform them. No previous experience is necessary.

No prerequisite.

The basic concepts of visual literacy, techniques, materials and traditional subject matter are used to develop skills in painting and fundamental concepts of art. Emphasis will be on composition and production of painting projects and on the aesthetic and formal principles that inform them. No previous experience is necessary.

No prerequisite.

Introduction to the basic elements of visual literacy. The theory and formal concepts necessary to create visual expression are studied and applied in practical exercises, then discussed and evaluated in critiques. Exercises are explained and illustrated with selected masterworks of design. Expressive content goals are related to the perceptual effects of elements of visual form and their interaction. No previous experience is necessary.

No prerequisite.

.25 credit or non-credit

Practical study and application of graphic design, publication layout and page design, photo editing, illustration and art direction. Approximately five hours per week of involvement with College publications such as the newspaper, The Leader, or MiddleWestern Voice. Recommended for students concentrating in design, multimedia, photography and communication. No previous experience is necessary to start. Courses must be taken in numerical order with the starting course level to be determined by the instructor. One course of upper-level practica may count toward the major.

Offered on a Pass/No Pass basis only.

An intensive studio course with a focus on figure drawing. Direct observation of the model will be informed by a study of anatomy for artists (skeleton and large muscle groups) and by study of evolving meaning and conventions of Western figure traditions, from the classical to modern period. Slide presentations, readings and museum visits will supplement studio work. A broad variety of media allows work in line, tone and color. Materials fee may apply.

Prerequisite: one drawing or painting course, or permission of the instructor. Fall Term, even-numbered years; January Term, on occasion.

An introduction to graphic design as a means of creative and effective problem solving through visual communication. A range of exercises and projects gives the student experience in a variety of design applications. Materials fee may apply.

Prerequisites: ART 113, ART 125. Fall Term.

Introduction to the basic processes and techniques of making functional and nonfunctional ceramic objects. These techniques include hand building, such as coil and slab and wheel throwing. Craftsmanship and critical thinking skills are stressed. Basic vocabulary, ceramic history, glazing and firing will be covered. Materials fee may apply. No previous experience is necessary.

No prerequisite.

Introduction to typography as a foundational element of graphic design. Topics include the history of; classifications and anatomy of; and rules, guidelines and theories on the effective and expressive use of type. Materials fee may apply.

Prerequisites: ART 113, ART 125. Spring Term.

This course introduces the techniques and processes involved in traditional and contemporary printmaking. Students will learn the history of printmaking as well as its importance in today’s culture, while designing and printing their own original works of art. Multiple processes will be explored, from traditional woodcuts and etchings to contemporary digital processes. No previous experience is necessary.

Introduction to the concepts of visual expression, techniques and materials of sculpture. Emphasis is on composition, expression and production of projects using two processes: the additive, which includes clay modeling, mold making and casting; and the subtractive process of direct carving. Materials fee may apply. No previous experience is necessary.

No prerequisite.

Exploration of a theme or topic not a part of regular course offerings, such as Renaissance perspective, the portrait, landscape and light, surrealism, collage, Hypercard or emerging movements of contemporary art. Materials fee may apply. Repeatable for credit.

May have prerequisites.

See ART 154–ART 155.

Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of animation including hand-drawn, stopmotion, 2D, and 3D tools and techniques. Students will also learn about the history of animation as well as how it was impacted by and continues to be impacted by emerging technologies. Students will discover the numerous roles that animation plays in the media world from narrative film to digital game design to motion graphics for web design and commercial productions.

Prerequisite: ART 113

An intensive studio course with a focus on figure drawing. Direct observation of the model will be informed by a study of anatomy for artists and by study of the evolving meaning and conventions of Western figure traditions, from the classical to modern period. Slide presentations, readings and museum visits will supplement studio work. A broad variety of media allows work in line, tone and color. This course builds on ART 115 and ART 215. A high level of student commitment as well as appropriately challenging assignments distinguish the 300-level course. Materials fee may apply.

Prerequisite: ART 215 or permission of the instructor. Fall Term, even-numbered years; January Term, on occasion.

Further development of skills, methods and approaches for creating graphic design. Aesthetics and style are also developed through various projects such as posters, publication design, packaging, etc. The student is also introduced to graphic design as a profession. This course and Graphic Design II are non-sequential. Materials fee may apply.

Prerequisites: ART 216, ART 226. Fall Term.

Development of consistency and clarity of visual expression in drawing and painting through the analysis and practice of the composition, style and subject matter of selected movements of modern art.

Prerequisites: ART 115 and 120. Spring Term.

Intermediate ceramics continues the survey of ceramics process and technique, with an emphasis on 20th-century developments of style, meaning and methods. The recognition and understanding of both the historical and modern cultural influences on ceramics will be covered, as well as the transformation of ceramics from functional craft to expressive sculpture, vessel and anti-vessel, representational and abstract ceramic sculpture. Students will research the development of specific art movements and styles to explore possible influences on their work. Projects involve casting, press molds, coil and slab construction or the use of the potter’s wheel. Students will be expected to work independently apart from scheduled meeting times and also provide some supplies and tools as needed for their projects. Materials fee may apply.

Prerequisite: ART 221 or permission of the instructor.

Study of the elements of visual language and the way in which these elements affect the way we perceive the world around us. Color, type, page composition, style and symbolism are studied as building blocks of expression as used in visual art and the media.

Prerequisite: ART 113.

An introduction to and exploration of the skills and techniques used for the professional production of print media. The requirements and capabilities of offset printing and various production methods are examined in order to prepare students to work professionally. These concepts and methods are explored through various graphic design projects such as logos and branding identities, advertising design, multi-page layouts, etc. This course and Graphic Design I are nonsequential. Materials fee may apply.

Prerequisites: ART 216, ART 226. Spring Term.

Further exploration of traditional and contemporary printmaking processes with emphasis on 20th-century issues and approaches. Introduction of extended color printing and mixed media techniques. Materials fee may apply.

Prerequisite: ART 230.

Focus is on attaining clarity of visual expression in sculpture through the analysis and study of formal elements of selected styles of modern art. Projects involve further development of modeling-casting or carving techniques, and direct construction using welding is introduced. Materials fee may apply.

Prerequisite: ART 235.

A survey history of Western art from the prehistoric era through the Renaissance. The various types and styles of art of these periods are studied, and the aesthetic criteria used in judging works produced in these traditions are investigated.

No prerequisite. Fall Term.

A survey history of Western art from the 17th century through the third quarter of the 20th century. The various styles of painting, sculpture and architecture of these periods are studied, and the aesthetic criteria used in judging works produced in these traditions are investigated.

No prerequisite. Spring Term.

Introduction to the art of screen printing as a printmaking method and means of graphic production. This course will look at the history and contemporariness of screen printing and its place in the worlds of fine art and commercial art. Students will learn techniques and create prints using modern screenprinting methods, including digital processes. Photoshop experience and graphic design or printmaking experience is a must.

Prerequisites: ART 113 and ART 216 or 230. January Term and Summer Term on occasion.

In-depth exploration of a theme or topic in art not a part of regular course offerings. Materials fee may apply. Repeatable for credit.

Prerequisite: one art course in the appropriate medium.

A survey of art from Latin America covering the regions of Mexico, Central and South America. The stylistic and iconographic development of architecture, painting, sculpture and craft arts of these societies are studied as they are found in their social, political and religious contexts. The ancient and modern influences of Latin American art are examined with emphasis on movements of 20th century art and the impact of Modernism upon them.

No prerequisite. January Term, even numbered years.

See ART 154-ART 155.

A survey of the visual arts of non-European cultures and societies in areas such as Asia, Africa, the ancient Americas and elsewhere. The art of these societies is studied as it is found in its social and cultural contexts, and the aesthetic criteria used in judging works produced in these traditions are investigated.

No prerequisite. Fall Term, even-numbered years.

A survey of the visual arts of Native North Americans from ancient times to European contact and up to the present, and from the Arctic to Mexico and Mesoamerica to Panama. Art and architecture will be studied in their cultural context. Emphasis on the first nations of Mesoamerica and the contiguous United States. Slide lectures, readings, video, museum visits, field trips and workshops.

No prerequisite. Fall Term, odd-numbered years; January Term on occasion.

The Art of India approaches ancient through contemporary artistic practices of a unique culture. The creative drive to understand the world, perceptions of beauty, understandings of spirituality and the urge to incorporate art forms into everyday life are considered. Analyzing historical influences, beginning with Mohenjo-Daro and Bhimbetka through the Mughals and the British, provides a framework for identifying important influences. Current issues of international commerce, threatened indigenous expression, and urgent challenges of conversation and restoration are also included.

Students in this course will develop an original concept for a digital game or animated media. They will design the environment, characters, and props required to create the world needed for their game or animation. The relationship between visual design and storytelling will also be emphasized. Upon completion of the course, students will have a pitch and all accompanying concept art for an original game or animated film or television show.

Prerequisite: ART 113.

An intensive studio. Direct observation from the model will be informed by further study of anatomy for artists and by study of the evolving meaning and conventions of Western figure traditions, from the Baroque to the Contemporary period. At the 400 level, students are expected to intensively study contemporary figure painters and work toward developing a portfolio of extended large drawings in a consistent personal style. Readings and museum visits are required, leading to a critical essay on a chosen contemporary figure painter. Materials fee may apply. Repeatable for credit.

Prerequisites: ART 215, ART 315 or permission of the instructor. Offered intermittently.

Further development of students’ design skills at an advanced level. Practical and experimental projects are explored for the purposes of self-promotion and creating a complete and diverse portfolio. Emphasis is placed on professional preparedness. Materials fee may apply. Repeatable for credit.

Prerequisites: ART 226, ART 316. Fall Term.

Students work on individual projects, developed in consultation with the instructor, that derive from each student’s aesthetic interests and goals and preferred medium, materials and techniques. Emphasis is on the development of a personal direction and a body of work with the refinement of appropriate techniques. Repeatable for credit.

Prerequisite: ART 320. Spring Term.

Students work on individual projects, developed in consultation with the instructor, that derive from each student’s aesthetic interests and goals, preferred materials and techniques. Emphasis is on the development of a personal direction and a body of work with the refinement of appropriate techniques. Repeatable for credit.

Prerequisite: ART 321.

As the final course in the graphic design sequence, this class covers issues and topics focused on giving the students understanding and experiences that will adequately prepare them to enter the profession of graphic design. This will include the design and assembly of a portfolio, design of materials for self-promotion, and preparation for the process of applying and interviewing for jobs in the field of graphic design. The course will incorporate readings, class lectures and discussions, the reworking of existing projects and the creation of new projects, and will evolve with the industry. Spring Term.

Students pursue individually chosen projects using contemporary approaches to develop a body of work. Basic mastery of the print media allows the student to attain freedom of aesthetic expression. Materials fee may apply. Repeatable for credit.

Prerequisite: ART 330.

Students work on individual projects, developed in consultation with the instructor, that derive from each student’s aesthetic interests and goals and preferred materials, processes and techniques. Emphasis is on the development of a personal direction and a body of work with refinement of appropriate techniques. Repeatable for credit.

Prerequisite: ART 335.

Students will examine issues, themes and practices of the contemporary art period through selected readings in art criticism and art theory. Videos, class discussion and exhibit visits will be utilized. Themes of the course may include: strategies of scale and display; mixed media; installation; public art and context; influences of mass media; photo, text and projection media; the post-Colonial art world; race, gender and cultural identity; and sequence, duration and interactivity. Students will respond through essays, visual presentations and creative works.

Prerequisites: ART 342 and art major, junior/senior status or by permission. Spring Term, even numbered years.

Time is spent exploring more advanced techniques and methods of screen printing and developing a strong proficiency with the medium. Students work closely with the instructor to develop a series of individualized projects that allows them to use screen printing to create a body of work that addresses their own aesthetic, style and content.

Prerequisite: ART 346. January Term and Summer Term on occasion.

Majors may obtain career experience through art-related involvement with businesses, art galleries, museums, public relations, publishing or media outlets. Application should be made to the faculty coordinator in the term preceding the anticipated internship. Offered on a Pass/No Pass basis. Not repeatable for credit.

Prerequisites: ART 341 or 342, junior standing and a major within the Department of Art.

This course seeks to provide students with a model of the creative process, an understanding of how the major program is inter-related and is integrated in practice in their personal artwork. Students identify a personal style through the development of a cohesive body of work. Specific course requirements will vary depending on the studio area, but in general, emphasis is on an individualized studio project developed in consultation with the instructor, a written paper and an artist’s statement.

The capstone course is a repeatable-for-credit studio course specially renamed with the capstone course number and designation. Many upper-level studio courses are repeatable and are so indicated in the course offerings listed previously. ART 490 meets on the same schedule as the repeatable course. It is the student’s responsibility to select a repeatable course as a capstone and to identify themselves to the instructor at the beginning of the term. Students register for the capstone course with an independent study course form using the capstone course number and the repeatable course title; for example, ART 490 Advanced Painting. ART 490 and 491 are usually taken in the same term.

Prerequisite: 400-level studio in area of concentration. Art education and art business majors are exempt from this requirement.

Note that field experiences, credit earned for experiential learning portfolio components, and ART 350, 492 or 468 may not serve as a capstone course.

.50 credit

The capstone exhibition is required for all majors. The capstone exhibition displays the body of work created in the capstone course. Students prepare the exhibit, announcements, publicity and artist’s statements. The exhibitions are held at the end of the Fall and Spring terms. Methods of documentation and presentation are taught in workshop format. Professional issues and writing for the visual arts will be discussed. In addition, students are required to participate in a final faculty review. ART 490 and 491 are taken in the same term.

Pre- or corequisite: ART 490.

Please note that artwork produced for credit remains the property of Elmhurst University until released by an appropriate faculty person. Neither the instructor nor the University is responsible for loss of, or damage to, any project.

.25 to 1.00 credit

For advanced art majors who wish to study a special historical or theoretical topic, or wish to do creative studio work in areas not found in the department’s regular course offerings. Repeatable for credit.

Prerequisites: junior standing and consultation with the instructor prior to registration. Admission to ART 292 is by permission of the department chair only.

.50 credit

This course gives Honors Program students the opportunity to design and implement a significant research project in the field of art culminating in an appropriate public dissemination of research methods and findings. This research must build upon previous coursework taken within the major or minor, facilitating faculty supervision and guidance. Repeatable for credit.

Permission of the faculty supervisor and the director of the Honors Program required prior to registration.