In applications including sketchbook assignments, studio work, and written responses, students will demonstrate understanding of the visual language of painting. Course Components Studio Work Students work through the process of visual thinking and problem solving in a variety of studio - based experiences. They produce between 5 - 10 finished works a semester as a result of learning through exploration of painting styles and media. The skills to use these resources are embedded in the work of the Painting class. Beginning with drawing exercises, students then use watercolor and tempera to see how the properties of color affect an image.
Students develop an understanding of color theory through application in painting.
By exploring a variety of watercolor techniques such as graded wash, wet in wet, and drybrush, students are better able to use watercolors to create their own personal imagery. Watercolor is used throughout the semester for preliminary idea sketches and color studies for works in other painting media. An understanding of acrylic and oil painting properties and techniques is developed through short term exercises and longer assignments. After studying and discussing ways other artists have used these media, students experiment with a variety of grounds for both acrylic and oil. This may include preparing and using paper, canvas board, and Masonite surfaces, as well as learning how to stretch and prepare canvas for painting.