Illustration Minor

This studio course in digital image making will challenge students to create thought-provoking and visually stimulating work while learning how to use the computer as a versatile tool for creation and manipulation. A range of projects will be developed while students consider the role of literal and implicit communication, aesthetics, and emotional impact. Computer applications: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Macromedia Flash (a beginning intro).

This course provides an intensive study of graphic visualization for convincing representation. Students will be introduced to the use of light logis and the application of a variety of black and white and color media to produce highly refined and visually accurate drawings and painting. Emphasis is on a realistic fidelity in the representation of nature and man-made objects through the careful study of structure, surface, and lighting influences.

This course provides an overview of traditional and contemporary color illustration practices, techniques, and styles. A comprehensive and practical introduction to color theory and the use of multiple color media is also emphasized. This course is meant to be the critical bridge between rational color theory and intuitive painting. It also provides the opportunity for exploration and familiarization of painting methods and styles through a range of in-class exercises and outside assignments addressing the full spectrum of color and its relationship with commissioned art.

This course is an exploration of the chemistry of color mediums and the experimentation with possible handling techniques as it relates to the finished composition. Compositional emphasis will be on using the human form from life and reference material as it relates to each assignment. Skill in the areas of reference photography and lighting as it relates to working with models will be developed. Knowledge will be gained in the areas of application, handling, surfaces, color palette development, narrative, concept, and composition.

This course is designed to refine and develop the skills for a consistent personal visual vocabulary, and to enable the artist to produce editorial interpretations based on literary works and social, cultural, and political issues of personal and public opinion. Concepts are stressed with emphasis on communication of visual surprise and imagination. The creation of narrative and symbolic image making are encouraged and explored. Students are expected to find individual solutions to both black and white and color assignments.

This course focuses on the production of illustrations that promote sales, recognize commercial products, or call attention to services or institutions. The goal of this course is to prepare artists to work professionally with clients in the marketplace. Assignments include advertising illustration that may appear in commercial collaterals such as magazines, newspapers, billboards, posters, brochures, pamphlets, television, print, or on web sites. Emphasis is on the working relationship between art director and illustrator, and directly between the client and illustrator.