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3D ART

Our flexible 3D concentration lets you choose your individualized path toward working in three dimensions. You will gain the conceptual, aesthetic, and technical skills needed to build confidently with materials and work with the challenges and dynamics of space. In our popular glass courses you'll learn the tools and methods of fused, cast, and flameworked glass. We also offer courses in sculpture, wheel-thrown and hand-built ceramics, and special topics courses in 3D studio art. 

Upper-level BFA students have access to semi private studios, well-lit and well-ventilated, in the art building. Illinois Wesleyan's Virtual Reality Lab may also be of interest to students of 3D exploring a Special Individual Project or Honors Project on human-computer interactive art.

 

BFA in Three-dimensional Art

A minimum of 32 courses are required for the BFA degree with a concentration in 3D art. Eighteen courses minimum in the major:

  1. ART 111, 214, 115320322, and 399
  2. Select eight courses from: ART 170, 226, 232, 238, 302, 326, 332, 338, 381, 426, 432, 438, 480497.
  3. Four courses outside the area of concentration. These may be courses in Graphic Design
    Two-dimensional ArtArt History, or BUS 240.
  4. BFA degree candidates must present a senior exhibition or project for approval by the art faculty.

 

Course Descriptions

ART 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.

ART 226 - Beginning Glass

This course offers a survey of beginning glassworking techniques. Students will melt, form, and carve glass, a material transformed by light and uniquely suited to artistic expression. The course emphasizes historical and contemporary glassmaking, encouraging students to integrate traditional methods with personal innovation in their projects. Offered each semester.

ART 232 - Beginning 3D Studio Practice

This beginning class on three-dimensional work is for students who like to make things. In each project, students will learn to conceptualize and form three-dimensional objects out of wire, wood, paper, plaster and found objects for artistic expression. The course will guide students in idea development and encourage experimentation. This class is for new and experienced makers. Offered occasionally.

ART 238 - Beginning Ceramics

The course introduces the fundamental techniques of working with clay and glazing. Students will develop an understanding of form, surface, and materiality, engaging in projects that emphasize creativity and a solid foundation for further exploration in ceramics. Handbuilding is offered in the fall and throwing in the spring.  Offered each semester.

ART 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.

ART 326 - Intermediate Glass

This intermediate glass course expands on basic glass-working techniques. Students will explore the expressive potential of glass through targeted projects that encourage technical refinement, problem solving, and creative experimentation. Emphasis is placed on understanding material properties and developing a personal artistic approach. Prerequisite: ART 226. Offered each semester.

ART 332 - Intermediate 3D Studio Practice

This intermediate course explores three-dimensional creative expression, emphasizing individual problem-solving and conceptual development. As students begin to identify their conceptual and technical interests, the class guides them in defining their unique visual voice. Projects encourage innovation and engagement with physical and social landscapes. Prerequisite: ART 232. Offered occasionally.

ART 338 - Intermediate Ceramics

The course emphasizes individual problem-solving and continued technical development. Through personalized projects, students will tackle artistic challenges and refine their skills, developing a distinctive approach to ceramic art. Handbuilding is offered in the fall and throwing in the spring. Prerequisite: ART 238. Offered each semester.

ART 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.  

ART 426 - Advanced Glass

This advanced glass course deepens students' skills in glassworking, exploring and focusing on a singular technique such as fusing, casting, or flameworking. Through intensive practice and critical feedback, students are encouraged to experiment and innovate, creating unique and complex glass artworks that reflect advanced conceptual understanding and technical proficiency. Course may be repeated once for credit. Prerequisite: ART 326. Offered each semester.

ART 432 - Advanced 3D Studio Practice

This advanced course requires students to complete a series of proposed projects that foster exploration and self-reflection and hone their skills in three-dimensional expression. The project materials will correspond to the students' ideas and interest in specific techniques. One course project must be publicly displayed. Course may be repeated once for credit.  Prerequisite: ART 332. Offered occasionally.

ART 438 - Advanced Ceramics

The course encourages greater independence and experimentation. Students will deepen their understanding of material properties and techniques. The course supports self-directed projects that push artistic boundaries and culminate in conceptually rich works. Handbuilding is offered in the fall and throwing in the spring. Course may be repeated once for credit. Prerequisite: ART 338. Offered each semester.

ART 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.  

ART 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 headshot

J. Kline - Interim Dean of Fine and Performing Arts

Department - Provost And Dean Of Faculty