ARTS 1015 Thinking & Making in the Visual Arts (4 Credits)

This course explores the language of the visual arts and how it can be used to communicate ideas about culture, history and the personal. Through hands-on exercises and experimentation in different media students create visual art works that interpret the world around them. This course focuses on different areas of the visual arts that change its focus depending on the area of expertise of the faculty teaching it. (Example: drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, ceramics, sculpture.) Students leave the course with a broader understanding of the visual arts, past and present. Students also leave with a more in-depth understanding of the creative process that will inform other areas of studies throughout the University and which will enrich their lives long into the future. Lab fee. This course counts toward the Analytical Inquiry: Society and Culture requirement.

ARTS 1100 2-D Approaches (4 Credits)

Students are introduced to the elements of design, vocabulary of art and visual analysis. Explorations of the formal language of two-dimensional media include color, digital processes and mark making. Students also develop an understanding of compositional strategies, materials and processes. Verbal and written exercises supplement group activities and visual learning. Students explore across material boundaries. Increasing emphasis is placed on subjectivity, content and conceptual development. Lab fee. No prerequisites.

ARTS 1200 3-D Approaches (4 Credits)

Students are introduced to spatial thinking, the fundamentals of structure and construction, and the formal language of three dimensional forms. Applying a variety of materials, explorations include additive and subtractive methods, basic mold making, and an introduction to hand and power tools. Verbal and written exercises supplement the Studio environment and visual learning, and basic digital methods and color relationships are explored. Emphasis is placed on subjectivity, artistic choice and craft, alongside the beginnings of content and conceptual development. Lab fee. No prerequisites.

ARTS 1250 Drawing (4 Credits)

Fundamental drawing practice and history based on selected exercises, slide presentations, comprehensive group/individual critiques and workshops. Still-life and figure drawing are covered in this course. Projects focus on ways to comprehend and draw three-dimensional forms, with emphasis on conceptual issues and use of materials. This class is required of all majors in studio art prior to taking upper-level courses. It is also required of all EDP students.

ARTS 1300 Concepts (4 Credits)

Students integrate the skills and principles acquired from ARTS 1100 and ARTS 1200. Two topics are explored: 'Culture & Context' and 'Time, Space & Duration'. A greater complexity of studio activity is stressed through collaborative exercises and individual approaches to themes. Greater exploration of context and concept is expected, with emphasis on visual communication and personal awareness. Lab fee. Prerequisites: ARTS 1100 and ARTS 1200.

ARTS 1400 4D Approaches (4 Credits)

Students are introduced to the fundamental principles of four-dimensional art and design through a survey of concepts, techniques, and practices. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and experimentation through investigations of technological form and innovation, time and motion, and the ephemeral. Verbal and written exercises supplement group activities and visual learning. Lab fee. No prerequisites.

ARTS 1988 Study Abroad Resident Credit (0-18 Credits)

ARTS 2000 Open Media Studio (4 Credits)

This course is a topic driven, interdisciplinary research studio. Students investigate the topic and their relationship to it in a variety of media, and supplement their inquiry with research that occurs outside the classroom. An exploration of different processes, materials, expression and connection with the larger world is emphasized. Lab fee. All students must complete ARTS 1300 first.

ARTS 2045 Intermediate Drawing (4 Credits)

This course covers a wide range of materials and ideas, both traditional and experimental. Emphasis is divided between technical and conceptual issues, building on the skills established in ARTS 1250 Drawing. Lab fee. Prerequisite: ARTS 1250 or permission of instructor.

ARTS 2055 Color (4 Credits)

Color is a studio-based course focused on developing a more sophisticated and practical understanding of how colors act on us and vice versa, physiologically, psychologically, emotionally and culturally. It is designed specifically to enhance the abilities of people who work with color, be they painters, web designers, video artists, art historians, art therapists or conservators. However, because of the intentionally basic level of art skills involved, this is a course that is also taken by non-art majors with success. It includes in-class color work that retrains students in their ability to "see" more color and to become confident in their ability to interpret and manipulate color for any specific need. In addition, there is required reading on the physics of color, and discussion of the historical influences and legacy of color in primarily Western culture. Lab fee. Majors should complete ARTS 1250 and ARTS 1300 first.

ARTS 2115 Introduction to Oil Painting (4 Credits)

Introduction to Oil Painting builds on the ideas and skills learned in Drawing. Working with oil paint, students explore the possibilities of creating the illusion of three-dimensional form and space on the flat surface of a canvas. Emphasis is on really looking to heighten one's visual awareness of the physical world and seeing the effects light has on form, color and space. Students work from objects, the human form (models), imagination and art history. Critical abilities will be developed as students learn to think, speak and write about art. Discussions and critiques explore the social, political and the expressive possibilities of art-making. Students are given individual work-space to focus and develop their paintings. Students complete paintings in and out of class; contemporary and historical artists' work is explored, and students visit an area museum or gallery. Lab fee.

ARTS 2215 Relief Printmaking (4 Credits)

Concentration on selected areas of relief printmaking and related contemporary attitudes. This course covers relief, ranging from linoleum and woodcut processes to experimental approaches. Group and individual critiques. Digital image presentations. Examination of actual prints. Lab fee. Prerequisite: ARTS 1250 or permission of instructor. Art majors must also complete ARTS 1300 first.

ARTS 2225 Intaglio Printmaking (4 Credits)

Concentration on selected areas of Intaglio printmaking. Emphasis is placed on conceptual and technical development, and on personal expression through this medium. Group and individual critiques. Digital image presentations. Examination of actual prints. Lab fee. Prerequisite: ARTS 1250 or permission of instructor. Art majors must also complete ARTS 1300 first.

ARTS 2235 Screen Printing (4 Credits)

This course focuses on water-based screen printing and its applications in a workshop/studio intensive atmosphere. Group and individual critiques. Digital image presentations. Examination of actual prints. Lab fee. Prerequisite: ARTS 1250 or permission of instructor. Art majors must also complete ARTS 1300 first.

ARTS 2415 Introduction to Photography (4 Credits)

This class presents the basic concepts of photographic practice and discourse regarding; the historical, cultural and personal impact of photography. The goals are: introduce camera basics: digital photography workflow; (camera, image processing and digital printing); creative cell phone photography; online book publishing; development of an artistic and aesthetic way of seeing; engagement in critical analysis of photography; and most importantly, have fun learning a new skill. Participants will practice basic principles of photography, such as; camera, lighting and composition. Basics of Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom will be presented as post-production editing tools. Emphasis will be on the production of socially engaged photography projects, from conception to print. Creation of a final portfolio will be required, either as an edited selection of prints, or published online. Creation of a personal website will be encouraged. Community engaged collaboration may be a component of this course. Collaboration with another DU class may also be a component. No prerequisites. MUST HAVE A DIGITAL CAMERA WITH MANUAL METERING CAPABILITY. If you are unable to meet this requirement, please contact the professor. Lab fee. Art majors must complete ARTS 1250 and ARTS 1300 first.

ARTS 2445 Digital Photography and Experimentation (4 Credits)

This course continues to build upon the concepts and techniques investigated in ARTS 2415 Introduction to Photography. Students gain an understanding of digital photography and the use of Adobe Photoshop in the process of making art. Through labs and classroom demonstrations this course is designed to improve student's skill level as an artist/photographer, both technically and conceptually. Projects are viewed and discussed in critique sessions. Students must have a digital camera with manual metering capabilities. Lab fee. Prerequisite: ARTS 2415 Intro to Photography or permission of instructor (this requires demonstrating your proficiency in photography via a portfolio or website).

ARTS 2515 Introduction to Ceramics (4 Credits)

This course investigates the unique, material nature of clay as a medium for exploring artistic concepts and ideas. Studio assignments and demonstrations introduce several basic handbuilding methods as well as glazing and firing techniques. This course provides the fundamentals upon which students build their own direction and invention. Emphasis is on experimentation and individuality. Lab fee. Majors must complete ARTS 1250 and ARTS 1300 first.

ARTS 2535 Ceramics: Food and Function (4 Credits)

Gastronomy is the study of the relationship between culture and food. In this class, we explore gastronomic objects associated with food, both functional and sculptural. The importance of food is intimately involved with our concepts and design choices. Studio assignments and demonstrations serve as springboards for the student's own research and interpretations. Students use many different technical approaches such as throwing, handbuilding, casting as well as mixed media. Ultimately, students investigate, create and EAT! Lab fee. Prerequisite: ARTS 2515 or permission of instructor.

ARTS 2555 Ceramics: Multiples (4 Credits)

This course investigates the many aspects of working with repetition and multiples. Assignments fall under the headings of Repetition, The Series, The Unit and The Collection. Students learn mold making and slipcasting techniques in addition to handbuilding and glazing. Students develop ideas on a conceptual level first and then move into building their pieces, combining the appropriate construction methods to realize their ideas. Lab fee. Prerequisite: ARTS 2515 or permission of instructor.

ARTS 2565 Ceramics: Surface (4 Credits)

This course explores the ceramic surface as a canvas for decoration and narrative in both functional and sculptural forms. Students do extensive exploration and experimentation combining traditional ceramics techniques with those of drawing and printmaking. Students develop ideas on a conceptual level first and then move into creating their pieces, combining the appropriate methods to realize their ideas. Lab fee. Prerequisite: ARTS 2515 or permission of instructor.

ARTS 2615 Introduction to Sculpture (4 Credits)

This course offers a supportive but critical context to extend students' understanding of three dimensional form and its creation. Building on construction methods and spatial relationships formed in ARTS 1200, the course emphasizes the experiential and conceptual aspects of sculpture, and the interrelationship of ideas, form, material and technical means. Lab fee. Prerequisite: ARTS 1200. Majors should complete foundations sequence first (ARTS 1100, ARTS 1200, ARTS 1250, ARTS 1300).

ARTS 2645 Mold Making and Casting (4 Credits)

This course explores moldmaking and casting as a way to reproduce sculptural form and generate meaning. In this class, students are introduced to techniques for reproducing form such as open face molds, two-part molds, and castings from life. Students learn to express ideas by exploring the conceptual significance of material and form. Assignments teach technical skills while fostering conceptual development. Course content introduces students to contemporary artists and critical dialog.

ARTS 2701 Topics in Studio Art (4 Credits)

Selected topics in studio art research. May be repeated to a maximum of 12 credits.

ARTS 2775 Integrated Practice (4 Credits)

The overall approach of Integrated Practice (IP) is to offer students ways to articulate their individual "non-art" degree interests and knowledge as artistic outcomes. Modeled as a Studio course in format (curiosity, research, and making) the course encourages the expression of knowledge in other areas (Biology or International Studies, for example) through the vehicle of art. Additionally, the course offers students opportunities to pursue and further existing art skills and experiment with new ones, so choices of medium and process are flexible. For example, if a student enjoys photography or sculpture, there will be options to explore the projects using those mediums or technical approaches. Projects in IP will examine different means to translate non-visual knowledge to that which is visual or tangible. Examples may include ways to visualize "data" (broadly), exploring the approaches of mapping to examine the real and the imaginary, and more site-specific/interactive means of addressing ideas of place. There are options for 2 dimensional, 3 dimensional and virtual explorations of ideas, building further bridges between disciplines. Overall, the course encourages a holistic synthesis between "non-art" knowledge (academic or otherwise) and art making practice. Course pre-requisites include at least two prior ARTS (Studio) courses and/or permission of the instructor.

ARTS 2988 Study Abroad Resident Credit (0-18 Credits)

ARTS 3055 Advanced Drawing (4 Credits)

Working with a variety of materials and techniques, students hone their drawing skill and at the same time create finished drawings defined by content. Problems posed encourage independent thinking, experimentation and the development of a personal technical base. Lab Fee. Prerequisite: ARTS 2045 or ARTS 3065 or permission of instructor.

ARTS 3065 Life Drawing (4 Credits)

An intensive course in drawing the human figure, clothed and unclothed, to explore the human form in terms of proportion, movement, light and shadow, composition, color and personal expression. Students experiment with a range of materials. Lab Fee. Prerequisite: ARTS 1250 or permission of instructor.

ARTS 3125 Figure Painting (4 Credits)

An intensive course in painting the human body--the most timeless subject of art. Students work mainly in oils and experiment with a variety of surfaces and techniques. Students also investigate line, proportion, light and shadow, composition and color. Final project: life-size painting of two figures. Lab fee. Prerequisite: ARTS 2115 or ARTS 3065 or permission of instructor.

ARTS 3145 Painting Workshop (4 Credits)

Concentration on selected techniques and approaches to painting. Topics change. Course may be repeated to a maximum of 12 credits. Lab Fee.

ARTS 3245 Printmaking Workshop (4 Credits)

This upper-level course focuses on various topics and processes as the definition of contemporary printmaking evolves. Subjects such as lithography or intermediate screen printing, photo-based prints, or current themes relevant to printmaking are possible core formats for the course. Group and individual critiques, digital image presentations and examination of prints and reproductions. Lab fee. Prerequisites: sophomore standing and ARTS 1250 or permission of instructor. Art majors must also complete ARTS 1300 first. Course may be repeated to a maximum of 12 credits.

ARTS 3347 Professional Practice (4 Credits)

This course is required of BFA studio art majors and is open to BA art majors. It covers practical artist survival skills, including resume and cover letter writing, exhibition proposals, documentation of art work, artist statements, portfolio development and professional presentation of self and work. The course is reinforced by field trips and guest speakers who introduce both academic and non-academic art experiences and professions. Lab fee.

ARTS 3348 Senior Practicum in the Visual Arts (4 Credits)

Required for all studio BFA candidates. Students are expected to begin research and investigation for work that may be included in the BFA exhibitions. Emphasis is placed on a three-pronged assessment consisting of Idea/Concept/Voice, Theory/History/Research and Craft/Technique. Lab fee.

ARTS 3349 Senior Seminar in the Visual Arts (4 Credits)

Required for all studio BFA candidates. Students pursue work individually and demonstrate a synthesis of ongoing research, demonstrate development and participate in structured weekly critiques with other studio BFAs and faculty. This work is a meaningful extension of fall and winter quarters and extends beyond the installation of BFA exhibition. Emphasis is placed on discussions and critiques centered on the three-pronged assessment initiated in winter quarter of Idea/Concept/Voice, Theory/History/Research and Craft/Technique. Lab fee.

ARTS 3450 Portrait Photography (4 Credits)

This course continues to build upon the concepts and techniques investigated in ARTS 2415 Introduction to Photography. The class focuses on the genre of photographic portraiture. Through labs and classroom lectures, many interpretations of portraiture are covered. Projects are viewed and discussed in critique sessions. Students must have a film or digital camera with manual metering capabilities. Lab fee. Prerequisites: ARTS 2415 and any one of the following: ARTS 2425, ARTS 2435, ARTS 2440, ARTS 2445, or permission of the instructor (requires demonstrating proficiency in photography via a portfolio or website).

ARTS 3452 Photography and Society (4 Credits)

This course celebrates the enduring tradition of social documentary photography and visual storytelling. Participants will practice basic principles of photography, such as; camera, lighting and composition. Basics of Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom will be presented as post-production editing tools. Contemporary Social Documentary Photography practice will be positioned within the context of the history of photography. Emphasis will be on the production of socially engaged photography projects, from conception to print. Creation of a final portfolio will be required, either as an edited selection of prints, or published online. Creation of a personal website will be required. Community engaged collaboration will be a component of this course. Collaboration with another DU class may also be a component. No prerequisites. This course may satisfy one requirement for a Photography and Society Certificate. "Photography and Society." Students must have a digital camera with manual metering capability; contact the professor if you cannot meet this requirement.

ARTS 3455 Photography Workshop: Alternative Processes in Photography (4 Credits)

Concentration on selected techniques and approaches to photography. Topics change. Projects are viewed and discussed in critique sessions. Students must have a film or digital camera. Course may be repeated to a maximum of 12 credits. Lab fee. Prerequisites: ARTS 2415 Introduction to Photography or permission of the instructor (requires demonstrating proficiency in photography via a portfolio or website).

ARTS 3555 Ceramic Workshop (4 Credits)

Concentration on selected techniques and experimental approaches to ceramics. Topics change. Course may be repeated to a maximum of 12 credits. Lab fee. Prerequisite: ARTS 2515 or approval of instructor.

ARTS 3635 Advanced Sculpture (4 Credits)

This advanced course emphasizes the experiential and conceptual aspects of sculpture, and the interrelationship of ideas, form, material and technical means. Course content supports in-depth student research into contemporary art and fosters critical dialog. Lab fee. Prerequisites: ARTS 2615. Majors should complete the foundations sequence first (ARTS 1100, ARTS 1200, ARTS 1250, ARTS 1300).

ARTS 3645 Advanced Mold Making & Casting (4 Credits)

This course explores moldmaking and casting as a way to reproduce sculptural form and generate meaning. In this class, students are introduced to advanced techniques for reproducing form such as multiple part molds and rotocasting. Students hone their ideas by exploring the conceptual significance of material and form. Assignments teach technical skills while fostering conceptual development. Course content supports in-depth student research into contemporary art and fosters critical dialog.

ARTS 3655 Sculpture Workshop (4 Credits)

Concentration on selected techniques and experimental approaches to sculpture. Topics change. Course may be repeated to a maximum of 12 credits. Lab fee.

ARTS 3701 Topics in Studio Art (4 Credits)

Selected topics in advanced studio art research. Course may be repeated to a maximum of 12 credits. Lab fee. Prerequisite: instructor's permission.

ARTS 3865 Senior Project: Conservation (4 Credits)

Required for, and limited to, BFA pre-art conservation majors. It is normally taken spring quarter of the senior year. The student works with a professional art conservator on a major conservation project that will become part of his or her portfolio and will be exhibited in the senior BFA exhibition.

ARTS 3915 Advanced Problems in Art (1-5 Credits)

This course is for students who have completed all 3000-level courses in a given area of concentration to show proficiency and wish to pursue more advanced work. A proposal form must be obtained from the art office and signed by the instructor and the Director of the School of Art and Art History before the student registers for this course. Variable credit. May be repeated to a maximum of 12 credits. Lab fee.

ARTS 3960 Conservation Internship (4 Credits)

The internship is normally taken during the fall of a major's senior year, under the direction of a professional Conservator, either in private practice or in a conservation department. Students should work closely with their advisor to arrange the Conservation Internship during the quarter before it will be taken. The student works on a wide variety of materials and problems in conservbation during this internship, gaining as varied an experience as possible and developing a professional portfolio. Must be a BFA major in Pre-Art Conservation.

ARTS 3966 Studio Art Travel (1-4 Credits)

A travel course to selected locations to visit galleries, museums and artists' studios. Location and content of course change. Variable credit. May be repeated to a maximum of 12 credits. Lab fee.

ARTS 3980 Studio Art Internship (1-4 Credits)

The student is responsible for locating the internship and gaining approval for it, using the internship guidelines and contract form in the art office. Typical internships have been located in commercial galleries, fine art printmaking houses, professional artists' studios and non-profit arts organizations.

ARTS 3988 Study Abroad Resident Credit (0-18 Credits)

ARTS 3991 Independent Study (1-6 Credits)

Supervised studies not addressed in this catalog of classes. Advanced projects must be faculty approved. Permission/registration form is available from the Office of the Registrar.

ARTS 3999 Exit Survey (0 Credits)

All majors in the School of Art and Art History are required to register for ARTS 3999 during their final quarter of study at the University of Denver. The course is completed by taking the online exit survey. It does not bear credit; no tuition is assessed and no grade is given. Majors cannot graduate until they complete this requirement. The information from this anonymous survey is used by the school to improve its programs. We greatly appreciate our students' help in this regard.