2D ART
Our flexible 2D concentration lets you choose your individualized path toward making effective, aesthetic images. Students in 2D Art study in depth the traditional artistic tools and technical processes of painting, drawing, printmaking (including lithography, etching, color intaglio), film and digital photography, as well as less conventional 2D media projects. The historical forms of image making processes will serve as the framework for understanding contemporary images and pictorial modes of communication.
Upper-level BFA students have access to semi private studios, well-lit and well-ventilated, right in the art building.
BFA in Two-dimensional Art
- ART 111, 214, 115, 320, 322, and 399
- Select eight courses from: ART 231, 234, 140 or 240, 215, 331, 334, 302, 431, 434, 446, 381, 415, 480, 497.
- Four courses outside the area of concentration. These may be courses in Graphic Design, Three-dimensional Art, Art History, or BUS 240.
- BFA degree candidates must present a senior exhibition or project for approval by the art faculty.
Course Descriptions
140 - Photography I
Introduction to black and white processes and concepts. Explores photography as a medium of aesthetic expression and awareness of both historic and contemporary trends in photography. Beyond collecting photographic images and studio work, students engage in group discussions and a series of critiques. Slide lectures, demonstrations of studio processes and research assignments complement studio work. (AR) Offered each fall and occasionally in spring.
170 - Special Topics in Art & Design
A course which may vary in content with each offering. The central focus may be on one or more issues of process, content, or style. Each course offering under this title bears a subtitle which indicates the specific type of course experience that is planned. May be repeated for credit if course is not duplicated. Offered occasionally.
214 - Beginning Drawing
This beginning drawing course introduces students to fundamental drawing techniques and materials. Focused on developing observational skills and understanding of line, edge, form, light, and shadow, students will explore various subjects through charcoal and pencil. Assignments encourage artistic expression, laying the groundwork for more advanced visual communication. Offered each semester. AR
231 - Beginning Painting
This beginning painting course introduces students to the essentials of painting with acrylics. Students will learn about color mixing, brushwork, and composition as they explore still life, landscapes, and portraiture. Emphasis is placed on developing a personal style while mastering the basics of medium and technique. Offered each semester. AR
234 - Beginning Printmaking
The course introduces students to printmaking processes and concepts and explores printmaking as a medium of aesthetic expression. It aims to develop an awareness of selected historical and contemporary modes of printmaking through studio work, critiques, group discussions, research and information-gathering assignments, lectures, and demonstrations. Offered occasionally. (AR)
240 - Digital Photography
Explores the conceptual, creative and technical processes of the medium. The course includes demonstrations of technological best practices, from image capture to print, including web publishing. Each student will create a portfolio of digital images through studio work. (AR) Offered each semester.
302 - Contemporary Professional Practices
This course will address the material, technical, and theoretical choices necessary for producing and understanding contemporary art. It will be an exploratory seminar. The class will promote an interdisciplinary approach to the making of art and help the student to discover how different material and technical decisions can inform their visual and conceptual practice. Prerequisite: Junior standing within the School of Art. Offered occasionally.
315 - Intermediate Drawing
This intermediary studio course focuses on advancing students’ technical skills and conceptual understanding. Through projects and critiques, students will explore various techniques and enhance their ability to problem-solve ideas visually. Emphasis is placed on developing a cohesive body of work that reflects individual artistic identities. Prerequisite: ART 214. Offered each semester.
331 - Intermediate Painting
This intermediate painting course builds on foundational skills to deepen students' understanding of color, composition, and technique. Students will explore thematic projects that challenge them to interpret and express complex subjects. Emphasis is on fostering a distinct artistic voice through experimentation and critique. Prerequisite: ART 230. Offered each semester.
334 - Intermediate Printmaking
This intermediate printmaking course explores lithography and color intaglio. Students will learn the technical processes to develop proficiency and artistic expression, creating complex, multi-layered prints that reflect distinct artistic perspectives. Prerequisite: ART 235. Offered occasionally
340 - Photography III
A continuation of 240. Students are expected to demonstrate greater independence and experimentation in their work. Prerequisite: ART 240. Offered each semester.
381 - Special Topics in Art & Design
May vary in content with each offering. The central focus may be on one or more issues of process, content, or style. Each course offering under this title bears a subtitle, which indicates the specific type of course experience that is planned. May be repeated for credit if course is not duplicated. Offered occasionally.
415 - Advanced Drawing
This advanced drawing course is for students with a solid foundation in basic drawing techniques. The course aims to develop a personal drawing style, broaden familiarity with all drawing media, and enhance appreciation of drawing as an art form. Students will engage deeply with various subjects and styles. The course may be repeated once for credit. Prerequisite: 315. Offered each semester
430 - Advanced Painting
This course encourages greater independence and experimentation in artistic practice. Students are expected to push boundaries in both technique and concept, exploring personal and contemporary themes deeply. The course supports self-directed projects with individual critiques, creating a cohesive body of work. Course may be repeated once for credit. Prerequisite: ART 330. Offered each semester
434 - Advanced Printmaking
This course encourages greater independence and experimentation in printmaking practice. Students are expected to push boundaries in both technique and concept, exploring personal and contemporary themes deeply. The course supports self-directed projects with individual critiques, fostering a mature, innovative approach to creating a cohesive body of work. The course may be repeated once for credit. Prerequisite: ART 335
440 - Photography IV
Concentrated individualized work for advanced students. Prerequisite: ART 340. May be repeated once for credit. Offered each semester.
480 - Special Individual Projects
Individually designed research studies, field experiences, or experimental studio projects in an area of special interest; carried out under the guidance of the instructor or a special supervisor. May be repeated for a maximum of three units of credit. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Offered as needed.
497 - Internships
Individually designed experiential learning. May include field studios or internship placements such as commercial printing, graphic design, museum or gallery work. Prerequisite: Consent of the School of Art faculty. Offered each semester.
J. Kline - Interim Dean of Fine and Performing Arts
Department - Provost And Dean Of Faculty