Supplies needed for class: Regular Pencil(s)- needed first day, needed every day Sketchbook (at least 8inx10in)-Needed by 2nd week, needed every day Liquid “School” Glue (smallest size works great)-Needed by 2nd week Cardboard (2 cereal boxes worth or more)-Needed by 5th week ultra fine sharpie or waterproof equivalent Watercolor paint set OR colored pencil set for homework use.
Intermediate Art is intended to explore the fundamentals of studio practice. Drawing, observing, and design will be utilized as devices to construct our perception of composition. Through exercises and critiques, you will learn how to apply basic visual concepts/language to your work. Line, shape, texture, pattern, value, and color are vehicles through which your exploration begins. In thought, in words, and by practice you will assume the role of the visual artist.
Grading Grading in Art courses is not arbitrary. Your semester’s grade is dependent on several variables; 1. Technical quality. Artisanship. Mastery of hand skills associated with the discipline. Understanding of craft concerns as evidenced in the appropriate and skillful use of materials and process. Relevant precision and neatness of the work. Portfolio presentation. Talent. 2. Artistic quality of the work. Display of understanding and use of basic design concepts (visual flow, composition, color usage) and basic skills such asdrawing, composition and the like. Relationship of the concept to the execution. Appropriate exploitation of techniques, materials and process with relation to concept. Creative and imaginative solutions. Talent. 3. Quantity. Extra trials, prototypes or experimentation. Extra work beyond the assigned tasks. More elaborate or challenging interpretation of assignments. 4. Semester-long attendance and performance in critiques. Understanding of concepts presented in class as reflected in verbal articulation. Punctuality of the work. Understanding of and follow through on criticisms as reflected in subsequent work. Motivation and use of class time, effort to grasp concepts, willingness to work, outside readings, outside parallel projects, stamina, continuity, momentum, improvement.
Studio Art Myths Talent Talent does count. If a student is naturally inclined towards a discipline area, they tend to do well because they like to spend time and thoughtful energy in the work of that discipline. The work, and consequently, the grade tend to follow. Those with intrinsic talent may think they can “pull something off” at the last minute, but this strategy often backfires. Talent does not necessarily deliver a good grade. Expect to challenge yourself at a higher level. Hard Work Hard work alone does not necessarily achieve an “A”. Unlike other disciplines, however, hard work can be taken in to account when a project fails. If the failure can be articulated and built upon, then the learning experience can be justified. Follow-up is key. Hard work does not mean putting in all the hours required for a project by staying up for an all-nighter just before a project is due. It means beingconsistent and prepared for the duration of a project.
The Idea, The Craft Idea and craft are inextricably linked. While each aspect of a work may be discussed separately, in the end successful work is that in which idea and craft are co-dependent. In other words: part of your idea IS the craft. Your choice of materials, approach, formal means, etc. will reveal the idea best.
It’s Subjective Much of a grade is located in very quantifiable elements time spent, preparedness, technical skill, quantity, and interaction. Many assignments, especially in introductory classes, are designed to develop particular skills and ideas with a limited range of possible solutions. Your Teacher is trained to understand and evaluate a wide range of approaches and can identify quality in works and approaches that are not personal favorites.
A – Mastery of course content at the highest level Work showing student’s full involvement in assignment through exploration, research and learning. Work that surpasses the requirements of the assignment through the use of inventive thought. B – Strong performance Solid work, showing involvement with assignment. C – A totally acceptable performance Work that satisfies the requirements of the assignment; shows effort but retains unresolved issues. D – A marginal performance Lowest Passing Grade: work that is poorly executed F – Unacceptable performance Failure/Missing or incomplete work Profile of an “A” Student This student attends class, arriving on time, prepared with materials for the day’s assignment and outside work completed. This person participates in all aspects of class focusing on assigned work, is cooperative and studies assigned readings. The “A” student consistently produces excellent work. The good craftsmanship is evident inthe care and precision the student uses in the execution of work. The comprehension of the project is revealed in the work, understanding the basic concepts of the assignment. He/She uses inventive thought to create his/her own version of the assignment, while following the guidelines and principles established in class. During critique, the student expresses thoughtful comments to others. The effort and growth that the “A” student has achieved is obvious at the end of the semester.