Description
Technical exploration, perception, development of ideas, intuition, invention, representation and communication are at the core of this course. We will begin this course in an observational mode, introducing practical information about the fundamentals of painting: color, shape, tone, edge, composition, perspective, and surface. We will paint still lifes and transcribe a masterwork. We will look at the work of both old masters as well as contemporary painters. We will also take a trip to a museum/galleries to look at paintings in the flesh. The course will include demonstrations of materials and techniques, slide presentations, films and videos, reading materials, homework assignments, and group and individual critiques. In the second half of the course, we will complete a series of projects exploring design principles as applied to nonobjective (abstract) artworks. Using paint, with preparatory collages and drawings, we will engage with strategies for utilizing nonobjective imagery towards self-directed content. Each week will bring a new problem, with lessons culminating in independent paintings. Projects will emphasize brainstorming multiple answers to visual problems over selecting the first solution that comes to mind. The last part of the course will be devoted to a personal project. Students will establish their theme of interest, which they will present during conference meetings; then, they will carry out research and preparatory work to develop a series of paintings. Drawings will often be produced in tandem with paintings in order to solve painting problems and illuminate visual ideas. Revisions are a natural and mandatory part of this course. The majority of class time will be spent in a studio/work mode. The studio is a lab where ideas are being worked out and meaning is made. It is important that students are curious and travel to unexpected places rather than merely relying on existing skills and experiences, instead challenging themselves to openness and progress. The process will be part critical thinking, part intuition, and in large part physical labor. Working rigorously inside and outside of class is required. The goal is to establish the roots of a healthy a