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, 113, 115, 320, 322, and 399
- Select eight courses from: ART 130, 135, 140 or 240, 213, 230, 235, 302, 330, 335, 340, 381, 415, 430, 435, 440, 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
130 - Painting I
Introduction to painting processes and concepts. Explores painting as a medium of aesthetic expression and develops an awareness of selected historical and contemporary modes of painting. Critiques, group discussions, research and information gathering assignments, lectures, and demonstrations complement studio work. (AR) Offered each semester.
135 - Printmaking I
Introduction to printmaking processes and concepts. Explores printmaking as a medium of aesthetic expression and develops an awareness of selected historical and contemporary modes of printmaking. Critiques, group discussions, research and information gathering assignments, lectures, and demonstrations complement studio work. (AR) Offered occasionally.
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.
213 - Drawing II
A consideration of problems in perceptual and conceptual drawing. The aim is to further the understanding of drawing as an intermediary step which leads toward a completed work of art, and as a distinct art form having its own aesthetic qualities and being fully capable of producing an art object. Prerequisite: ART 113. Offered each semester.
230 - Painting II
A continuation of 130. Individual problems in painting. Prerequisites: ART 111 and 130. Offered each semester.
235 - Printmaking II
An introduction to the processes of lithography and color intaglio. Techniques and skills achieved in art 135 will continue to be utilized. Prerequisite: ART 135. Offered occasionally or by special arrangement.
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.
330 - Painting III
A continuation of 230. Students are expected to demonstrate greater independence and experimentation in their work. Prerequisite: ART 230. Offered each semester.
335 - Printmaking III
A continuation of 235. Students are expected to demonstrate greater independence and experimentation in their work. Prerequisite: ART 235. Offered occasionally or by special arrangement.
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
For advanced students who have an awareness of the basic problems in drawing. The course has three aims: development of a personal drawing style, familiarity with all drawing media, and a greater general appreciation of drawing. Prerequisite: ART 213. Offered each semester.
430 - Painting IV
Concentrated individualized work for advanced students. Prerequisite: ART 330. May be repeated once for credit. Offered each semester.
435 - Printmaking IV
Concentrated individualized work for advanced students. Prerequisite: ART 335. May be repeated once for credit. Offered occasionally or by special arrangement.
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.
Julie Johnson - Director of the Ames School of Art and Design
Department - School Of Art