Art Courses

These listings are sourced from Curricunet, and some courses may not be offered every semester. For additional information, contact the academic department, speak with counseling or refer to the current Class Schedule and College Catalog.

ART 2C - Individual Projects in Drawing    ( 3.00 - Units )
Individual project development for advanced drawers to create a personal and related body of eight drawings. Concept definition and development to be determined by the student and approved by the instructor.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Create a series of conceptually related drawings.
  2. Develop ways to critique own work for self-improvement.
  3. Draw successfully using advanced skill with the elements of line, shape, value, texture, and space.
  4. Organize a professional presentation for showcasing the final drawings.

ART 2B - Drawing and Composition    ( 3.00 - Units )
Development of knowledge and skills introduced in Art 2A, emphasizing exploration of artistic concepts, styles, and creative expression related to intermediate-level drawing, focusing on complex subject matter and concepts using a variety of drawing mediums, techniques, and methodologies. Students in this course will build on fundamental drawing skills to develop personalized approaches to content and materials in exercises covering multiple historical and contemporary approaches to drawing.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Correctly articulate color theory and pictorial uses of color in drawing.     
  2. Demonstrate improved skill of hand and eye coordination.
  3. Demonstrate skill in using graphite and pastel at an intermediate level.
  4. Draw successfully using the intermediate skill of eye to hand coordination using the elements of line, shape, value, texture, and space creating a realistic drawing in black and white and color media.

ART 2A - Introduction to Drawing    ( 3.00 - Units )
This course provides direct experience in exploring basic drawing concepts, including the expressive use of contour, value, perspective and composition while using a variety of media. Assigned projects may include still life, landscape, portraiture and figure. Focus on perceptually based drawing, observational skills, technical abilities, and creative responses to materials and subject matter.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Create the illusion of three-dimensional form and space on a two-dimension surface in black and white media.
  2. Demonstrate the skill of hand and eye coordination in realism drawing.
  3. Draw successfully using the skill of eye to hand coordination using the elements of line, shape, value, texture and space creating a realistic drawing in black and white media
  4. Organize a well-composed composition that reflects the basic elements.

ART 3B - Figure and Composition II    ( 3.00 - Units )
Continued development of knowledge and skills introduced in Figure and Composition I. Emphasis on color and conceptual themes in the drawing of the human form. Students will practice and create compositions using a live model.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. develop individual expressive content using the figure.
  2. create observational drawings from the live figure model that demonstrate an advancing knowledge of anatomy and structure of the human body;
  3. draw the human form accurately in color;

ART 3C - Figure and Composition III    ( 3.00 - Units )
Continued development of knowledge and skills further developed in Art 3B. Emphasis on composition and color and different figurative design elements during the drawing of the human form. Drawing elements stressing emotions and expressions.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Design figurative compositions with an emphsis on emotional content
  2. Draw a figure composition base on clear and precise design
  3. Draw in color the human for an emphasis on expression and indivduality

ART 3A - Figure and Composition I    ( 3.00 - Units )
Introduction to drawing the human figure from observation using a wide variety of drawing media and techniques. Topics include an introduction to human anatomy and the historical and contemporary roles of figure drawing in the visual arts. Students in this course will learn both descriptive and expressive approaches to drawing the figure. Open to any student, no drawing experience required.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. create observational drawings from the live figure model that demonstrate understanding of anatomy and structure of the human body;
  2. develop expressive content through manipulation of line, form, value, composition, posture, and anatomical proportions;
  3. evaluate and critique class projects using relevant terminology in oral or written formats.

ART 3D - Figure and Composition IV    ( 3.00 - Units )
Continued development and skills further developed in Art 3C. Emphasis on composition and color and different figurative design elements during the drawing of the human form. Drawing elements stressing individual philosophies and expressions.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Draw and construct complicated compositions using various mediums.
  2. Draw, color and construct complicated compositions using multiple meduims
  3. Draw, color and construct the figure with individually developed content

ART 7B - Intermediate Watercolor Painting    ( 3.00 - Units )
Continued development of knowledge and techniques introduced in Beginning Watercolor Painting. Emphasis on intermediate watercolor techniques that that advance the student’s skills and portfolio of paintings. Students will begin to create work based on their individual style.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Student will compose complex watercolor paitnting compositions
  2. Students will be able to paint different pictures using different watercolor techniques
  3. Students will demonstrate the use of color that emphasizes value as a basis for color contrast.

ART 7D - Advanced Watercolor Painting II    ( 3.00 - Units )
Continued development of skills and techniques introduced in Advanced Watercolor I, directed towards individual needs. Student artist is directed to develop personalized imagery and begin to settle on individual techniques.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Students will develop personal viewpoints so their works reflect their own emotional philosophy.
  2. The student will be able to paint advanced watercolor paintings based on skills developed in 7A, 7B and 7C
  3. The student will present their work in a professional manner

ART 7A - Introduction to Watercolor Painting    ( 3.00 - Units )
The student will learn materials, methods, techniques and watch demonstrations of transparent watercolor painting, including its effects and possibilities. The student will work with the instructor to maximize watercolor painting skills during class and at home.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. paint and manipulate materials, basic methods and beginning techniques unique to transparent water color;
  2. demonstrate the basic watercolor value contrasts necessary for a successful painting.
  3. demonstrate color and composition through the use of watercolor.

ART 7C - Advanced Watercolor Painting I    ( 3.00 - Units )
Builds upon the skills and techniques introduced in Intermediate Watercolor, so that the student can solve composition problems as well as begin to utilize personal expressions. Emphasizes composition, concept and visualization skills.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Student will be able to solve advanced compositional problems using watercolor
  2. Students will reinterpret historical influences as a basis for their work.
  3. Student will continue to improve watercolor skills & technique develop in 7A and 7B

ART 9 - CCACA Conference colloquium    ( 1.00 - Units )
Students explore all aspects of planning and executing a ceramic art exhibition of their own work at California Conference for the advancement of Ceramic Art held annually in Davis, CA.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Discuss and compare basic design principles, concepts, media, and formats in the various fine arts disciplines.
  2. The ability to conceive, design, and create works in one or more specific fine arts fields.
  3. Develop a working knowledge of various aesthetic issues, processes, and media and their relationship to the conceptualization, development, and completion of works of art.

ART 9B - Art Interdisciplinary Colloquium II    ( 1.00 - Units )
This is the advanced level of an interdisciplinary course, exploring the processes, ideas and diverse media of visual arts. The course addresses the thematic concepts that are central to the nature of art making today. Visual problem solving and teamwork will be emphasized throughout the course, in addition to an in-depth exploration of various materials and the nature of professional art practices. Learn leadership skills by mentoring entry level students.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Discuss and compare basic design principles, concepts, media, and formats in the various fine arts disciplines.
  2. The ability to conceive, design, and create works in one or more specific fine arts fields.
  3. Develop a working knowledge of various aesthetic issues, processes, and media and their relationship to the conceptualization, development, and completion of works of art.

ART 9A - Art Interdisciplinary Colloquium I    ( 1.00 - Units )
This is an interdisciplinary course, exploring the processes, ideas and diverse media of visual arts. The course addresses the thematic concepts that are central to the nature of art making today. Visual problem solving and teamwork will be emphasized throughout the course, in addition to an in-depth exploration of various materials and the nature of professional art practices.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Discuss and compare basic design principles, concepts, media, and formats in the various fine arts disciplines.
  2. The ability to conceive, design, and create works in one or more specific fine arts fields.
  3. Develop a working knowledge of various aesthetic issues, processes, and media and their relationship to the conceptualization, development, and completion of works of art.

ART 12D - Advanced Oil Painting II    ( 3.00 - Units )
Advanced projects in oil painting with emphasis on individual creative work and development of personal ideas and style. Students will build on skills previously developed in the intermediate painting classes. Students will have the ability to show independent course work through exhibition opportunities. Mentoring students from the beginning levels classes is an important aspect of this course.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Student will be able to grasp and produce works of art that combine the pychological impact of society with their own paintings.
  2. Student will be able to paint subjects of several genres
  3. Students will be able to demonstrate a through appreciation of the value of the conceptual and emotional ideals of their painting

ART 12A - Beginning Oil Painting    ( 3.00 - Units )
Introduction to principles, elements, and practices of oil painting. Focus on exploration of painting materials, perceptual skills and color theory, paint mixing and technique, as well as creative responses to materials and subject matter.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. create paintings that evince a working knowledge of the physical properties of oil paint using tools, mediums, and layering techniques.
  2. assess and critique paintings using relevant critique formats, concepts and terminology.
  3. create paintings using the basic formal elements and principles of design as they relate to color theory and painting.

ART 12B - Intermediate Oil Painting    ( 3.00 - Units )
Intermediate projects in oil painting focusing on more complex and varied subject matter, media and concepts. Special emphasis is placed on the development of creative, individualized approaches to materials and content.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Produce paintings that successfully incorporate historical and contemporary approaches to representation, creative expression, and materials.
  2. Develop and express conceptual and material intentions in written and oral formats and apply these to the creation of finished paintings.
  3. Safely handle and maintain materials, studio facilities, and equipment.

ART 12C - Advanced Oil Painting I    ( 3.00 - Units )
Advanced projects in oil painting with emphasis on individual creative work and development of personal ideas and style.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Use terminology, tools, techniques, support and grounds for painting with competence.
  2. Develop a unique body of work that successfully promotes the students ideas while refining existing painting skills and techniques.
  3. Create paintings using a variety of subject matter and genres.

ART 13D - Acrylic Painting - Advanced II    ( 3.00 - Units )
Advanced projects in acrylic painting with emphasis on individual creative work and development of personal ideas and style.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Student will be able to grasp and produce works of art that combine the pychological impact of society with their own paintings.
  2. Student will be able to paint subjects of several genres
  3. Students will be able to demonstrate a through appreciation of the value of the conceptual and emotional ideals of their painting

ART 13B - Acrylic Painting - Beginning II    ( 3.00 - Units )
Projects in acrylic painting focusing on more complex and varied subject matter, media and concepts. Special emphasis is placed on the development of creative, individualized approaches to materials and content.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Produce paintings that successfully incorporate historical and contemporary approaches to representation, creative expression, and materials.
  2. Develop and express conceptual and material intentions in written and oral formats and apply these to the creation of finished paintings.
  3. Safely handle and maintain materials, studio facilities, and equipment.

ART 13C - Acrylic Painting - Advanced I    ( 3.00 - Units )
Advanced projects in acrylic painting with emphasis on individual creative work and development of personal ideas and style.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Use terminology, tools, techniques, support and grounds for painting with competence.
  2. Develop a unique body of work that successfully promotes the students ideas while refining existing painting skills and techniques.
  3. Create paintings using a variety of subject matter and genres.

ART 13A - Acrylic Painting - Beginning I    ( 3.00 - Units )
Introduction to principles, elements, and practices of acrylic painting. Focus on exploration of painting materials, perceptual skills and color theory, paint mixing and technique, as well as creative responses to materials and subject matter.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. create paintings that evince a working knowledge of the physical properties of acrylic paint using tools, mediums, and layering techniques.
  2. assess and critique paintings using relevant critique formats, concepts and terminology.
  3. create paintings using the basic formal elements and principles of design as they relate to color theory and painting.

ART 16A - Introduction to Ceramics I    ( 3.00 - Units )
Instruction in the fundamental techniques of wheel-thrown and hand-constructed clay forms. Survey of clay and glaze materials and reaction to fire will be included. Methods of decorating using glazes will be introduced. Influence of Eastern and Western contemporary and historical works and the students' creations. Formulate personal creative process, including inspiration, experimentation, and evaluation. Designed for art majors as well as non-majors.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Achieve basic technical skills of hand-built forms
  2. Achieve basic technical skills of wheel-thrown forms
  3. Achieve glazing skills which exhibit a knowledge of glaze and it's reaction to fire
  4. Achieve trimming skills which exibit craftsmanship
  5. Demonstrate an understanding of the potentials and limitations of the media.

ART 16C - Introduction to Ceramics III    ( 3.00 - Units )
Introduction of intermediate technical skills of throwing forms on the wheel with emphasis on the creative expression of the form. Kiln loading and firing procedure and process introduction. Continued development of various hand construction techniques of clay forms.Mix one large studio batch of glaze.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Achieve basic technical skills of hand-built forms
  2. Achieve basic technical skills of wheel-thrown forms
  3. Achieve glazing skills which exhibit a knowledge of glaze and it's reaction to fire
  4. Achieve trimming skills which exibit craftsmanship
  5. Demonstrate methods for loading, glaze and bisque kilns.

ART 16D - Ceramics - Intermediate    ( 3.00 - Units )
Intermediate technical skills of wheel-thrown and hand-constructed clay forms, exploring more advanced concepts, and processes including basic design principles, creative development, hand-building, throwing, glaze techniques, firing and ceramic terminology. The course covers aesthetics and creative development of clay objects examining historical, contemporary, and personal modes of expression across cultures.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Achieve basic technical skills of hand-built forms
  2. Achieve basic technical skills of wheel-thrown forms
  3. Achieve glazing skills which exhibit a knowledge of glaze and it's reaction to fire
  4. Achieve trimming skills which exibit craftsmanship
  5. Compare and contrast the approaches of contemporary ceramic artist.

ART 16B - Introduction to Ceramics II    ( 3.00 - Units )
Further development of the technical skills of wheel thrown and hand constructed clay forms. Exploration of surface decoration, using various glazing techniques and methods of slip decoration is continued. Designed for art majors as well as non-majors

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Demonstrate basic technical skills of hand- built forms
  2. Demonstrate basic technical skills of wheel-thrown forms
  3. Demonstrate glazing skills which exhibit a knowledge of glaze and it's reaction to fire
  4. Demonstrate trimming skills which exibit craftsmanship

ART 17A - Beginning Sculpture 1    ( 3.00 - Units )
Construction methods in clay through design of three-dimensional and relief sculptures. Includes an introduction to ceramic art history and fundamentals of ceramic glaze and firing technology. Elements and principles of three-dimensional design are emphasized in oral and written critiques. This course is designed for art majors as well as general education students.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Produce three dimensional sculptures using hand-building techniques with surface decoration that shows an understanding of ceramic glaze and firing technology.
  2. Critique masterpieces and student sculptures incorporating elements and principles of 3-dimensional design using ceramic terminology.
  3. Express creative concepts.

ART 17B - Beginning Sculpture 2    ( 3.00 - Units )
Further development of the technical skills of three-dimensional sculpture and bas relief. Development of style in surface decoration, using various glazing techniques and methods of slip decoration are continued. Designed for art majors as well as general education students.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Produce three-dimensional sculptures using advanced hand-building techniques with surface decoration that shows an understanding of ceramic glaze and firing technology.
  2. Critique masterpieces and student sculptures incorporating elements and principles of three-dimensional design using ceramic terminology.
  3. Express creative concepts.

ART 18A - Wood and Stone Sculpture I    ( 3.00 - Units )
Design and carve Bas-relief sculptures, using subtractive methods in wood and stone. Examines examples from modern and cross-cultural wood and stone art forms. Includes fundamentals of pneumatic (air power) technology. Elements and principles of three-dimensional design are emphasized in oral and written critiques. Designed for art majors as well as general education students.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Produce 3 dimensional sculptures using traditional media, wood, and stone to develop craftsmanship and exercise creativity and personal expression.
  2. Produce 3 dimensional sculptures in bas-relief surface decoration.
  3. Critique masterpieces and student sculptures incorporating elements and principles of 3-dimensional design terminology.

ART 18B - Wood and Stone Sculpture II    ( 3.00 - Units )
An intermediate course in the Design and carving of more advanced 3-dimensional sculptures, using subtractive methods in wood and stone. Includes care and maintenance of pneumatic (air power) technology. Elements and principles of three-dimensional design are emphasized in oral and written critiques.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Produce 3 dimensional sculptures using traditional media, wood, and stone to develop advanced craftsmanship and exercise creativity and personal expression.
  2. Further development producing 3 dimensional sculptures in bas-relief surface decoration.
  3. Critique masterpieces and student sculptures incorporating elements and principles of 3-dimensional design terminology.

ART 20 - All Media Sculpture    ( 3.00 - Units )
Concentrated individual studies in sculpture, designed to provide opportunity for continued investigation in the possibilities of a variety of sculptural media for the purpose of creating individual style and personal expression.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Critique masterpieces and student sculptures incorporating elements and principles of three-dimensional design and using sculpture terminology
  2. Express creative concepts
  3. Further develop existing sculpture skills and techniques by exploring materials beyond traditional medias such as wood, stone, and bronze

ART 21 - Individual Projects in Ceramic Sculpture    ( 3.00 - Units )
Projects in Ceramic Sculpture for intermediate to advanced students. Building on previous knowledge and skills acquired from previous assignments in Beginning Sculpture, students will produce artwork that expresses their individual styles.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Critique masterpieces and student sculptures incorporating elements and principles of three dimensional design and using sculpture terminology
  2. Express creative concepts
  3. Develop a unique body of work that successfully promotes the students ideas while refining exisating sculptures skills and techniques

ART 22 - Metal Sculpture - Lost Wax Bronze Casting    ( 3.00 - Units )
Comprehensive introduction to various metal sculpture processes. Mold-making techniques for casting bronze, aluminum, as well as basic welding. Emphasis on 3-dimensional design quality, craftsmanship, and subject matter, with research in the history of traditional and contemporary metal sculpture.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Construct an original bronze sculpture:  Make an original clay sculpture, make a rubber mold of that original, make a wax replica from the rubber to cast into bronze, finished with patina.
  2. Critique masterpieces and student sculptures incorporating elements and principles of three dimensional design and using foundry terminology
  3. Express creative concepts

ART 23 - 2-D Foundations    ( 3.00 - Units )
Introduction to the concepts and applications of two-dimensional art from various cultures, historical periods, and aesthetic sensibilities. The course covers fundamental theoretical concepts and terminology common to all two-dimensional art activities, including the study and analysis of the basic principles of organization and elements of line, shape, value, texture, color, spatial illusion. Designed to develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture presentations, studio projects, problem solving and written assignments. (May not receive credit if ART 10 has been completed)

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. design unique compositions, using the elements and principles of design that show craftmenship and attention to detail;
  2. develop painting, collage, and assembly techniques along with individual style and content;
  3. write a formal analysis of a work of ART that describes elements and principles of design related to the content attended by the artist.

ART 24 - 3-D Foundations    ( 3.00 - Units )
Introduction to the concepts, applications, and historical references related to three-dimensional design and spatial composition, including the study of the elements and organizing principles of design as they apply to three-dimensional space and form. Development of a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture presentations and use of appropriate materials for three-dimensional studio projects.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. gain functional competence with principles of visual organization, including the ability to work with visual elements in three dimensions;
  2. present work that demonstrates perceptual acuity, conceptual understanding, and technical facility at a professional entry level in 3-Dimensional Design;
  3. exhibit their work and to experience and participate in critiques and discussions of their work and the works of others.

ART 25 - Color Theory    ( 3.00 - Units )
A study of the principles, theories, and applications of additive and subtractive color in two dimensions. Topics will include major historical and contemporary color systems, production of projects in applied color, and the elements of design as they apply to color.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. develop a basic working understanding of the visual nature, behavior, and interaction of color including color dimensions of hue, value, and intensity in both additive and subtractive modes;
  2. develop a foundational understanding of the role and application of color in the history of art and design and color’s cultural and emotional dimensions;
  3. develop a basic understanding of color as relates to the elements of art and Principles of design;
  4. develop a basic knowledge and understanding of prominent color theorists and their writings regarding color;
  5. develop a vocabulary for discussing color as pertains to art and design.

ART 45 - Artist Portfolio and Self-Promotion    ( 1.50 - Units )
Development of an artist's/ designer's portfolio and strategies for self-promotion in the art and design industries. Students will work to revise existing projects, create advanced projects and select and organize projects for promotion. Includes use of effective techniques of presentation. Includes creation and revision of resume, business card, and template based website.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Development of an artist's portfolio and strategies for self-promotion.
  2. Make a final presentation of their professional portfolio.

ART 54 - Illustrating Children's Books    ( 3.00 - Units )
Creation of two different children's books in any medium. Overview of the field of illustrating children's books. The relationship between words and images, page layout, character development, and illustration styles. Illustrate existing books or students' own stories.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Develop a layout to use as a guide to create a children's book.     
  2. Execute quality draftsmanship and presentation skills.     
  3. Illustrate and produce two well-designed children's books using book contracts, time line calendars, dummy books, and cohesive and well-executed illustrated and text pages.
  4. Use a finished layout as a guide to create a children's book.     

ART 61 - Illustration    ( 3.00 - Units )
Creation and execution of conceptual ideas in illustration. Includes a variety of mediums and contemporary application styles. Emphasis on skills in traditional draftsmanship, craftsmanship and presentation.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Create a well composed image through the practice of formal design principles.          
  2. Develop conceptual ideas and produce them as good illustrations.
  3. Work successfully with a variety of illustration mediums.    

ART 200 - Introduction to Drawing & Painting    ( 3.00 - Units )
Individualized program of drawing and painting for residents in skilled-nursing facilities. Application of basic principles of composition, color, and line. Study of artistic practices of diverse cultures, including African design principles and European painting.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Develop the ability to use drawing, painting and collage materials

ART 201 - Sculpture and Ceramic Art for Mature Adults    ( Units )
Construction methods in clay through design of three-dimensional and relief sculptures. Includes an introduction to ceramic art history and fundamentals of ceramic glaze and firing technology. Elements and principles of three-dimensional design are emphasized in oral and written critiques. This course is designed to improve artistic ability of mature adults 50 + years of age or older.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Produce three dimensional sculptures using hand-building techniques with surface decoration that shows an understanding of ceramic glaze and firing technology.
  2. Critique masterpieces and student sculptures incorporating elements and principles of 3-dimensional design using ceramic terminology.
  3. Express creative concepts.

ART 202 - Painting and Drawing for Mature Adults    ( Units )
This noncredit course offers an individualized program of painting for the mature adult. Applications of basic principles of composition and color. Covers as well as techniques, materials and terminology of two-dimensional image making will be covered in a hands-on studio format. This is a non-credit course.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
  1. Create and finish paintings;
  2. use basic composition strategies with color;
  3. paint with ease and confidence.