Courses
Courses offered in the past four years.
▲ indicates offered in the current term
▹ indicates offered in the upcoming term[s]
ART 0157 - Foundation Drawing ▹
Foundation Drawing: Making Drawings to Explain the World Around Us
In this course we will learn to make drawings and graphic images to reveal the world we inhabit. Skills learned will include how to make perspective, architecture, value, and contour line systems. We will draw from observation of the natural world including, the human figure, exploring structure, expression, and psychology. We will also make and use photographic images. No previous studio experience is required or expected. 6 hrs. lect./lab
Spring 2012, Spring 2013, Spring 2014
ART 0158 - Unconventional Drawing
The Convention of Unconventional Drawing
The first half of this course will be a traditional life drawing class, where observational and drafting skills can be honed. We will capture gestures, contours, and shadows of a life model, presented in both 3-D and 2-D environments. In the second half, we will incorporate our initial drawings with appropriated images, and dive into a rigorous process of collage, tracing, scanning, and basic Photoshop and digital editing, in an attempt to understand how today's technology can help us to better represent our 3-D world in the confines of 2-D space. (This course can serve as a substitute for the ART 0159 prerequisite for upper level studio art courses). This course is not open to students who have taken ART 0159. 6 hrs. lect., lab
Fall 2011
ART 0159 - Studio Art I ▲ ▹
Studio Art I: Drawing
This course is a complete and thorough basic drawing course. Mediums used will be pencil, charcoal, and ink, among others. Work will be done from observation and invention. Line, perspective, value, composition, and introduction to color will be discussed. Assignments will involve students with the formal and technical aspects of drawing and with the idea of drawing as an individual means of expression. No prior drawing experience is assumed or expected. This course is required of all art majors and minors. 6 hrs. lect./lab
Fall 2009, Fall 2010, Fall 2011, Winter 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2013, Spring 2014
ART 0160 - Studio Art II
Studio Art II: Sculpture, Painting
This course is split into two six-week segments. In the first half we will study three-dimensional concepts using clay, soap, wire, cardboard, plaster, and mixed materials. In the second segment we will introduce applied color theory through the medium of acrylic or tempera paint. Assignments will involve students with the idea of sculpture and painting as means for individual expression. Required of all art majors and minors. Junior and senior non-majors will be assigned open spaces only after art majors have been accommodated. Each section is limited to 20 students. (ART 0159 is suggested preparation for this class but is not required.) Note that many winter term courses in studio art will count as a substitute for ART 0160. 6 hrs. lect.
Spring 2009, Spring 2010
ART 0161 - Photo: Theory & Practice
Photography: Theory and Practice
This is an introductory studio art course in photography designed to help students develop their understanding of the medium and their own style of photographing. The course begins with a series of lectures, demonstrations, and assignments that include an overview of the formal elements of picture making (composition, scale, focus, camera distance, and point of view), darkroom work, and class critiques. The emphasis will be on experimentation with subject matter, content, and form. We will use the technique of photograms, pinhole cameras, film cameras (35 mm preferred), and a 6MP or larger digital SLR camera with manual focus, aperture, and shutter controls. Our text will be Camera Lucida by Roland Barthes. This course is considered ART 0160 equivalent. Note: Because this is an introductory level course that meets pre-requisites for upper level courses, priority will be given to firstyears and sophomores at registration./
Fall 2009
ART 0162 - Labudiostudatory Art
Labudiostudatory Art
In this project-based course students will have the opportunity to explore images and metaphors related to science. There will be an introduction to a variety of 3D and 4D (time-based) media and techniques, including model making, video documentation, and flame-worked glass, with the goal of helping students develop the skills necessary to realize their ideas. Art and science-related readings, slide lectures, and field trips, as well as conversations with scientists on campus, will form the basis of our investigations. Among the topics to be considered are mapping complex systems, micro/macro structures, genomic poetry, and neuro-geography. 6 hrs. lect.
Spring 2010
ART 0164 - Sculpture and Video
Sculpture and Video
In the first half of this course we will use mixed materials to construct sculptural projects ranging from the symbolic to installation to body/performance. In the second half we will employ basic video shooting and editing to create short art videos. Both media will be used as means for individual conceptual expression. This course qualifies as one of the two introductory level studio art courses required of all studio art majors and minors. 6 hrs. lect.
Spring 2011, Spring 2012
ART 0165 - Two & Three-Dimensional Design
Fundamentals of Two and Three-Dimensional Design in Visual Image-Making
In this class we will explore basic methods of sculptural and graphic processes used to make visual images. The first part of this course will address three-dimensional fabricating principles: reductive (carving); constructive (architecture); and perceptual (working from the live model). The second part will use our three-dimensional creations to invent imaginative image-worlds using ink, marker, paint, and digital photography. 6 hrs lect./lab.
Spring 2011
ART 0166 - Drawing Three Dimensionally
Capturing the Line: Drawing in Three Dimensions
By drawing directly on the page and in space, we will explore our world and the objects with which we surround ourselves. Course work will broaden visual vocabulary through a series of investigations into the fundamental notions of working in physical space. Line drawings of personal and significant objects will evolve into three-dimensional works incorporating a number of materials including wire, cardboard, wheat paste, wood, and steel. For each project we will examine and expand upon a particular principle (scale, representation, abstraction) while investigating historical and contemporary ideas in the visual arts. 6 hrs. lect., lab
Spring 2012
ART 0167 - Intro to Sculpture-Form&Space ▹
Intro to Sculpture-Form and Space
What defines a sculpture? How do we make a sculpture? How do we talk about sculpture? What purpose does sculpture have? In this foundational, 3-dimensional art class, we will address fundamental sculpture concepts by considering form, function, scale, volume, and ideas behind the tactile world. Students will learn useful techniques such as: basic welding and woodworking; as well as how to use less traditional materials like rubbers, plastics, and foams. Through a series of sculpture-making projects we will learn to control these methods in creating our own art objects. Slide presentations of contemporary and historical artworks will integrate individual instruction and group critiques. No experience is required or expected. 6 hrs. lect., lab
Spring 2014
ART 0180 - Sculptural Architecture ▲
Sculptural Architecture
Architecture is a projection of our dreams as well as a practical necessity. In this course we will explore making architecture as imaginative sculpture. Working on a table-top scale, we will draw, build, and digitally photograph structures confronting challenges of site, population, and aesthetics. Specific and useful skills, such as hand and power tool operation, will be taught. Students will learn how to make sophisticated three-dimensional forms using foam-core, balsa, mahogany, and other woods. In addition, unusual processes of flame-worked and fused glass will be introduced. Weekly image-lectures on the history of sculpture, design, and architecture will be included. This class is recommended for those interested in bridging architectural practice with studio art freedom. No experience is required or expected. 6 hrs. lect./lab
Fall 2010, Fall 2011, Fall 2012, Fall 2013
ART 0300 - Advanced Drawing
Advanced Drawing: Making Your Mark
In this course students will refine their drawing skills and their understanding of formal pictorial language and how to visually communicate ideas to a viewer. Students will have the option to explore drawing from observation, imagination, abstraction, and unconventional. Students will be exposed to the importance and relevance of both contemporary art as well as ancient art, stressing critical thinking and the exploration of materials. (ART 0157, ART 0158, ART 0159 or by approval) 6 hrs. lect.
Spring 2011, Spring 2012, Spring 2013
ART 0309 - The Landscape Re-Imagined ▲
The Landscape Re-Imagined: Painting, Drawing, Photography, and Glass
In this course we will explore various art-making methods to depict our campus landscape and architecture. We will use oil paint on canvas, color drawing media, photography, and kiln-fused glass in a multi-disciplinary approach to two-dimensional picture-making. We will then explore how to integrate these technical processes with a goal of creating new and contemporary painted images. In addition to weekly image-based lectures on the history of landscape painting, the class will involve a collaborative studio workshop atmosphere, close individual instruction, and personal artistic development. (ART 0157, 0158, ART 0159 or by approval) 6 hrs. lect./lab
Fall 2009, Fall 2010, Fall 2011, Fall 2012, Fall 2013
ART 0310 - Painting
Topics in Painting
Students will explore individual expression based on historical as well as contemporary concerns and approaches in painting. We will consider varying paths to abstraction and will work from life and invention on a large scale, with the goal of introducing students to painting as a primary medium for their artistic vocabulary. Limited to 15 students. (ART 0159 and another introductory level studio practice course from the following list: ART 0160, ART 0161, ART 0162, ART 0163, ART 0164, ART 0165, ART 0180, THEA 0101, THEA 0111 ,THEA 0113, THEA 0119, THEA 0129, THEA 0205, FMMC 0105 , FMMC 0335 , FMMC 0243, FMMC 0346, HARC 0130) 6 hrs. lect.
Spring 2009, Spring 2010
ART 0315 - Intaglio Printmaking ▹
Scratching the Surface
In this course we will explore studio instruction in traditional and contemporary methods of intaglio printmaking with a critical emphasis on different methods of working directly on the plate. The general term intaglio (from the Italian intagliare, which means to engrave, carve, or cut) covers a multitude of processes. The incised line in the plate holds the ink while the surface is wiped clean. Only the line prints when paper is placed on the plate and both are run through the etching press. The course is augmented by slide lectures to provide the students with a thorough background in the intaglio medium as well as other drawing based mediums. Depending on resources, students may have the opportunity to be a part of an intensive, collaborative print project to produce an edition of prints with a professional artist. (ART 0157, ART 0158, ART 0159 or by approval) 6 hrs. lect./lab
Spring 2009, Spring 2010, Spring 2011, Spring 2012, Spring 2013, Spring 2014
ART 0318 - Silkscreen Printmaking ▲
Silkscreen Printmaking
In this course students will explore the silkscreen medium with guided studio instruction. This will include paper stencil method, film stencil method, photographic stencil method, and multicolor printing. Concentration will be on drawing. Towards the end of the semester, students will learn to use basic computer-aided imagery. Students will explore the roll of silkscreen printing in contemporary art as well as its use in popular culture. Depending on resources, students may have the opportunity to be part of an intensive collaborative print project to produce an edition of prints with a professional artist. (ART 0157, ART 0158, ART 0159 or by approval) 6 hrs. lect./lab
Fall 2009, Fall 2010, Fall 2011, Fall 2012, Fall 2013
ART 0319 - Form & Structure in Sculpture
Form and Structure in Sculpture
In this course we will investigate the techniques and principles of sculpture in relation to form and structure. We will explore construction in wood, metal, and mixed materials in both figurative and non-figurative forms of expression. This course and ART 0320 can be taken in any order. Limited to 15 students. (ART 0159 and ART 0160 or equivalents) 6 hrs. lect.
Fall 2009, Fall 2010
ART 0320 - Vol, Scale & Concept in Sculpt
Volume, Scale and Concept in Sculpture
In this course we will investigate the techniques and principles of sculpture in relation to size, scale, volume, and concept. Instruction will include the techniques of wood and metal fabrication, armature building for clay and plaster objects, modeling of the human head from life, and mixed-media fabrication using both man-made and natural materials. We will also examine how concepts are embodied and communicated in three-dimensional art work. This course and ART 0319 can be taken in any order. Limited to 15 students. (ART 0159 and another introductory level studio practice course from the following list: ART 0160, ART 0161, ART 0162, ART 0163, ART 0164, ART 0165, ART 0180, THEA 0101, THEA 0111 ,THEA 0113, THEA 0119, THEA 0129, THEA 0205, FMMC 0105 , FMMC 0335 , FMMC 0243, FMMC 0346, HARC 0130) 6 hrs. lect.
Spring 2009, Spring 2010
ART 0321 - Sculpture II
Sculpture II: Welcome to the Artist Collective
Working in small groups or as an entire class, we will tackle concepts and techniques that require more than one head and many hands. Performance projects will hone our abilities to conceptualize a piece from start to finish. The creation of wearable sculptures will provide ample opportunity for material exploration, and developing a site-specific space into an all encompassing installation will allow for greater personal connection to the work we create. Techniques employed in this class will include: woodworking, welding, sewing, and plastic inflatable construction. (ART 0157, ART 0158 or ART 0159 or by approval) 6 hrs. lect. lab
Spring 2012, Spring 2013
ART 0327 - Black & White Photography ▲
Black and White Photography
In this course we will explore traditional and contemporary B&W photographic expression, including portraiture, landscape, street, and collage. This course will include some study of the history of photography, as well as basic camera, darkroom, and digital techniques. Students must have a 35 mm film (preferable) or 8MP (or bigger) digital SLR camera with manual controls of focus, aperture, and shutter. Non-sectarian mindfulness practice will be part of this class (ART 0157, ART 0158 or ART 0159 or by approval) 6 hrs. lect./lab
Fall 2009, Fall 2010, Fall 2011, Fall 2012, Fall 2013
ART 0328 - Color Photography ▹
Color Photography
This course is an introduction to color photography with an emphasis on the construction of images using personal and social ideas. It will include some study of the history of photography and basic digital imaging techniques to make color prints. Students must have an 8MP (or bigger) digital DSLR camera with manual controls of focus, aperture, and shutter. Non-sectarian mindfulness practice will be part of this class. (ART 0157, ART 0158, or ART 0159, or by approval) 6 hrs. lect./lab.
Spring 2009, Spring 2011, Spring 2012, Spring 2013, Spring 2014
ART 0332 - Special Topics in Studio Art:
Special Topics in Studio Art
Topic to be determined by the instructor. Limited to 15 students. (ART 0159 and another introductory level studio practice course from the following list: ART 0160, ART 0161, ART 0162, ART 0163, ART 0164, ART 0180, FMMC 0105, FMMC 0243, FMMC 0335, FMMC 0346, HARC 0130, THEA 0101, THEA 0111, THEA 0113, THEA 0119, THEA 0129, THEA 0221, THEA 0223) 6 hrs. lect.
Spring 2009
ART 0370 - Oil Paint & Ceramic Portraits ▹
Portraiture In Oil Painting and Sculpture
In this class we will make images and objects of the human figure. Our approach will be two-fold: We will make glazed-ceramic portrait sculptures, which will be used as the basis for large-scale oil paintings. In doing so, we will learn how artists throughout history made oil paintings by creating and using visual source material. Our paintings will, as the need arises, integrate three-dimensional additions made from fired-ceramic, enameled copper, and/or fused glass. In these ways we will explore concepts of decoration, jewelry, and clothing. We will use digital photography throughout to record, analyze, and invent. In addition to weekly image-based lectures on the history of portraiture and design, the class will be include close, individual instruction within a collaborative workshop atmosphere. (ART 0157, ART 0158, ART 0159 or by approval) 6 hrs. lect./lab
Spring 2011, Spring 2012, Spring 2013, Spring 2014
ART 0371 - Sculpture I ▲
Sculpture I - Communicating in Three-Dimensions
This course is designed to further an investigation into the techniques and principles of three-dimensional art. Project objectives are designed to provide new problems and techniques to provoke creative solutions and visions. We will experiment with a number of materials and concepts, from wood-bending and welding to performance and installation. Each project's success will rely heavily on the research and commitment students bring to the creative process. Students will be expected to communicate the process and concept behind each artwork visually, orally, and in writing. (ART 0159 and another introductory level studio practice course from the following list: ART 0157, ART 0159, ART 0180, or by approval) 6 hrs. lect.lab
Fall 2011, Fall 2012, Fall 2013
ART 0500 - Special Project
Special Project
Supervised independent work with a special project proposed by a student or a collaboration between a student and a faculty member on a special project. Admission by permission of a faculty member. 3 hrs. lect.
Winter 2010, Winter 2011, Winter 2012, Winter 2013
ART 0520 - Advanced Study: Studio
Advanced Studies in Studio
Supervised independent work in studio. Studio independents are required to attend regular group critiques with the studio art faculty and the other senior studio independents. Recommendation of resident faculty member is required; admission is determined by portfolio review by all Studio Art faculty members. Students are encouraged to submit proposals the week prior to registration, but proposals will be accepted up until 5:00 p.m. the first Wednesday of the term. Contact the department coordinator to arrange for submission of portfolio. 3 hrs. lect.
Spring 2009, Fall 2009, Spring 2010, Fall 2010, Spring 2011, Fall 2011, Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Spring 2013
ART 0700 - Senior Independent Study ▲ ▹
Senior Independent Study
Approval required. 4 hrs sem./lab
Fall 2013, Spring 2014
ART 0720 - Sr. Independent Study:Studio
Senior Independent Study in Studio
Three terms of supervised independent work. Culmination of independent work will be an exhibition. All senior studio art independents will meet for regular group critiques with the studio art faculty and other senior studio independents. (Admission by portfolio review and recommendation of resident faculty member is required.) 3 hrs. lect.
Spring 2009, Fall 2009, Winter 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2010, Winter 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2011, Winter 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013
ART 1015 - Drawing with Light
DrawingWith Light
In this course students will explore the rich tradition of photogram printing in the darkroom and make prints of their own. Collage elements and digital tools will be used to create imagery, text, and graphics for the process. With an eye towards contemporary artists making collage and photogram work, students will produce a handsome portfolio of printmaking efforts including a final project. The fundamental principles of black and white photographic printing will be taught. Other topics covered will be Photoshop basics, scanning, and typographical elements. Each student will be required to purchase materials costing approximately $60. (This course will count as the ART 0160 prerequisite for 0300-level Studio Art courses.)
Winter 2010
ART 1018 - Out of Line
Out of Line
In this course we will investigate line through drawing in both two and three dimensions. Students will be introduced to a traditional use of line in drawing with pencil, charcoal, and ink on paper and will extend this understanding to a sculptural form of drawing in space using wire, string, and various other media. We will also stretch the conventional boundaries of drawing to include the digital line generated by sound and found/documented line occurring in the world around us. Projects will challenge students both technically and conceptually. (This course will count as the ART 0159 prerequisite for 0300-level Studio Art courses). There will be a materials fee of approximately $50 per student.
Winter 2011
ART 1020 - Art on the Land
Art on the Land
In this off-campus course we will utilize nature as both source and subject matter for art in a specific environment. To begin we will become familiar with the history of the region and develop a working knowledge of the native plants, animals, and terrain features of the Trinchera Ranch in Colorado. We will work inside and outside in a winter landscape to produce individual and collaborative artwork--sculpture, drawing, photography, and installations--in response to such common phenomena as daylight, moonlight, temperature, snow, ice, and wind. We will also work with materials found on the land to make artwork in response to such protean qualities of the natural environment as fragility, temporality, erosion, decay, and regeneration. Students will be expected to adapt to a new environment, quickly learn new techniques, be receptive to new ideas and work indoors and out seven days a week. Transportation, meals, lodging, and materials will be provided. Approval required; interested students should contact Monica McCabe at mmccabe@middlebury.edu no later than 4 p.m. on October 29th for an application. (Any one but preferably two of the following prerequisites: ART 0159 or ART 0160 or equivalents, HARC 0130, HARC 0330, ARDV 0116, ARDV 0117, FMMC 0105, or FMMC 0335. Open to any students who have these pre-requisites, not just studio art majors.) (This course will count as the ART 0160 prerequisite for 0300-level Studio Art courses.)
Winter 2010
ART 1021 - Print Lab
Print Lab
In this course students will make monotypes, monoprints, and collographs, and will employ other techniques as a basis for making complex prints. Drawing, creative use of line, repetition, and collage will be emphasized. Students will learn color management, layering, drawing, and reworking imagery. Students will draw from life and imagination. Previous studio experience is not expected. Each student will be required to purchase materials costing approximately $100. (This course will count as the ART 0159 prerequisite for 0300-level Studio Art courses.)
Winter 2010
ART 1022 - Sculptural Environment
Collective Brain: Creating a Sculptured Environment
In this course students will produce an architectural-scale sculptural environment guided by the concept of collaborative creative processes. The project will grow like a collective brain in the form of an extensive sculpture. Traditional art media such as sculpture, painting, and drawing, along with computer generated video and sound, will be utilized. In addition, we will use found objects and recycled materials from the College’s Recycling Center. Through this creative process, students will gain an insight into contemporary installation art using common materials and digital media. Students should expect to spend up to $75 for materials. (This course will count as the ART 0160 prerequisite for 0300-level Studio Art courses.)
Winter 2010
ART 1023 - Basic Silkscreen
Basic Silkscreen
In this course students will learn the fundamentals of the silkscreen technique as a basis for making complex prints. As a means of reproduction, printmaking allows students to print edition variables and then make editing decisions. Students will draw from life and from imagination with use of line, repetition, and collage as a focus. Color management, layering, registration, and the stencil process will be covered. Previous studio experience is not expected. Students will also be required to purchase materials costing approximately $150. (Students who have taken ART 0318 are not eligible to register).
Winter 2012
ART 1024 - Living World in Ceramics
Representations of the Living World: The Figural In Clay
In this class we will explore making representations of the living world using clay to make kiln-fired ceramic sculptures. These sculptural creations will be oriented toward (but not limited to) the human and animal kingdoms. Emphasis will focus on making these representations contemporary in style and content. Technical methods will center on coil-building and solid sculpting of low-fire clay to make large-scale pieces. Methods of glazing complex surfaces and color effects will be taught. Strategies of assembling fired-ceramic pieces using wood, metal and epoxies will be investigated to create large-scale accretions. There will be a $100 materials fee for this class. These supplies will be purchased by the instructor.
Winter 2012
ART 1025 - Sculpture-Material Lab
Sculpture-Material Lab
As an exploration through experimentation, this course aims to expose students to the widest array of sculptural materials possible in a limited amount of time. Each class will begin with an experiment designed to reveal the inherent properties of a new material, while also providing greater understanding of its traditional usage. Using a variety of casting techniques (rigid, flexible, lost, life) and the Smooth-on catalog (an industry standard and the origin of nearly all movie makeup special effects) as our guide, we will unleash our triple beam balances and mix up, urethane rubber, foam rubber, alginate, plaster, latex rubber, hard and soft plastics, and more. Fast-paced individual and collaborative projects will eliminate any sense of preciousness towards final outcomes emphasizing the journey and not the end product. Slide lectures showcasing contemporary artists including Folkert de Jong, John Isaacs, Tim Hawkinson, and David Altmejd will place these materials in context. This course is designed for the art major and non-major alike. Materials will cost approximately $90 per student. This course counts as an elective towards the major or minor in Studio Art.
Winter 2013
ART 1125 - Intro to B&W Photography
Introduction to Traditional Black & White Photography
In this course we will explore traditional black and white photography. Photography as a form of personal and artistic expression will be emphasized and various approaches to the medium will be explored through assignments and slide lectures. Students will learn technical aspects of exposure, development, and printing in a B&W darkroom. Students must provide their own 35mm film camera with manual controls. Each student will be required to contribute $100 towards the cost of materials. This course counts as an elective towards the major or minor in Studio Art.
Winter 2013
ART 1126 - Intro to Drawing: Alien Eyes
Introduction to Drawing: “Alien Eyes ”
Drawing is a fundamental and direct means of communication, documentation, and investigation. Students will be introduced to the process of drawing as if seeing the world for the first time. A variety of media will be used including pencil, charcoal, ink, and color conte/pastel on white, toned, and color papers. Projects will challenge students both technically and conceptually. We will work primarily from observation integrating personal expression and ideas about abstraction. The goal of this course is to establish a fluid connection between seeing, thinking, and mark-making. Each student will be required to contribute $75 towards the cost of materials. This course counts as an elective towards the major or minor in Studio Art.
Winter 2013
