Drawing is the fundamental language of all the visual arts.
We believe that through a process of profound experiential drawing, emphasizing both accurate draftsmanship and deep sensitivity, a proper base can be established on which to build other skills. Freedom to express with confidence and power can only be attained in direct proportion to disciplined control.
For the untrained, this process begins with learning to see. Not mere looking, but seeing with understanding and seeing with more than the eyes.
For the student already on this journey it is a process of going deeper, fine tuning skills, increasing sensitivity and responsiveness, experiencing drawing as another way of knowing about life and yourself.
All of this is very demanding and time consuming. It does not happen quickly or easily. There are no short cuts. However, the rewards are enriching and life changing.
Any student who has the determination, patience and commitment can attain a high level of competence in drawing.
At Belhaven we are committed to doing all we can to assist serious students in this vital area of growth.
Introductory Drawing
Introductory classes focus on fundamental perceptual development and problem solving. Through time-proven exercises and repeated drilling, the student is taught to see. The act of correct observation is instilled as prerequisite to further development. Subject matter consists of assorted objects, plaster casts, and the live model. Gesture is established as the essential life force from which all other interpretation and expression emanates.Introductory Painting
Much like our approach to drawing, this class initially is observation based with emphasis on color and light. The fundamentals of oil technique and media are introduced. Students will be involved in exercises which gradually increase in range and complexity.
Students are introduced to the field of graphic design by exploring the history of computer imagery while utilizing various 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional graphics software to further enhance design techniques and principles. In addition, students learn the laws of typography, image making, interactive/motion design, design theory and history and comprehensive problem solving.
Belhaven's Fine Art Degree program in the School of Visual Arts offers a Bachelor of Arts with an emphasis in photography. The photography course study begins with an intensive technical examination of the camera and the various photographic materials used in the production of a fine art photograph. In the semesters that follow, the photo student works on developing a comprehensive understanding of the history of photography. Then, as their expertise with the photographic medium increases, the students explore both the purist and the pictorialist approaches to photographic expression interfacing photography with graphic arts, design, and alternative non-silver printing and screen printing processes.
Beginning sculpture is an introductory course for those who have had little or no experience with sculpture. The concepts and techniques, idea and form, materials to methods of sculpture are all examined. Techniques involving subtractive sculpture (wood) and additive (clay) are explored along with the construction process of assemblage of traditional and nontraditional materials.
Figurative sculpture continues to refine students' skills for figure modeling through drawing and work in clay. From the human head to the complete figure, detailed work will continue where the basic sculpture class left off. Form, structure, materials, and basic design concepts are put to use. Students study figure structure through exploratory sketches and clay on an armature.
Belhaven College offers a variety of art history classes which are offered to both art and non-art students including:
World Art - a survey of the art of selected peoples and cultures throughout history from Africa, Asia, Ocania, North and South America. This course will endeavor to identify the universals of visual language while also seeking to bring Christian discernment to a reading of distinctive styles and methods as they embody worldviews.
Western Art I - a study of the history of art from the Ancient Near East through the artistic tradition, viewed from the context of Christian critical analysis.
Western Art II - a survey of developments in European art from the Renaissance through the Romantic period, ca. 1850. In addition to formal and technical considerations, emphasis will be placed on understanding and evaluating intent and meaning in light of the Christian worldview.
Western Art III - a focus on the last 150 years' developments in the arts, primarily of Europe and America. Artifacts embody ideas, and in this period they often did so intuitively, ahead of the general assimilation of those ideas into society. Students will be introduced to the images of modernity and postmodernity as viewed from a Christian perspective in an attempt to understand the artistic context of our times.
American Art to the 20th Century - History of American painting, sculpture, and architecture from the Colonial period to present times.
| Drawing
(3-3).
ART 120: Basic principles of construction of visual forms; ART 121: Prereq: 120 or permission. Introduction to color dynamics and precision drawing as used in creative expression. Open to non-art majors. (6 hours lecture, 3 hours lab) |
|
| 125 | Perspectives on Creativity and Art (3).
This course introduces visual arts students to broader questions concerning the artistic calling within a Christian worldview, the nature of the artistic process, the fundamentals of design and the visual elements, and the critical process. The course also provides initial exposure to a broad range of visual arts media and careers. For art majors and minors. (Honors) |
| 130-131 | Design
(3-3).
ART 130: Introduction to the theory and terminology of design and practical application of design elements and principles through unit projects; ART 131 Prereq.: ART 130 or permission. Practice in using the elements of design in spatial organizations and idea alteration. Open to non-art majors. (6 hours lecture, 3 hours lab) |
| 175 | Typography (3). Prereq.: ART 120-121, 130-131.
Introduction to the field of typographic design. Practical problems and emphasis in creative techniques and visual ideas in typography, corporate identity, logo and symbol design. (6 hours lecture and 3 hours lab) |
| 202 | Crafts
(3).
A study of the various materials in the development of handicrafts. |
| 215 | Art
Appreciation (3).
This course offers a basic introduction to artistic media, design concepts, and techniques as well as a historical overview of major artists, works, periods, and movements. The objective is to enhance students’ understanding and enjoyment of art in everyday experience and provide the tools for critical analysis of historical and contemporary works of art in their cultural and philosophical contexts. Non-major credit only. |
| 220-221 | Studio Drawing (3-3). Prereq.: ART 120-121, 130-131.
Studio drawing is an advanced drawing course that builds on the construction of visual form skills learned in ART 120-121. The course concentrates on the skeleton and muscle systems of the human form; the student then practices drawing from the live model. (6 hours lecture, 3 hours lab) |
| 232-233 | Computer
Graphics (3-3).
A fundamental overview of computer graphics applications, including InDesign, Quark, Illustrator, and Photoshop. Class projects stress creative use, conceptual thinking, and design usage. |
| 240-241 | Photography (3-3). (Formerly ART 140-141.)
ART 240: Practice in using cameras and developing, enlarging, and printing black and white photographs. Emphasis on design and concept as applied to photography as a fine art form; ART 241: Prereq.: ART 240. Emphasis on experimentation with the manipulation processes in negative room and dark room procedures Open to non-art majors; majors given preference. (6 hours lecture, 3 hours lab) |
| 250-251 | Studio Painting (3-3). Prereq.: ART 120-121, 130-131.
Together with an understanding and historical perspective of a time past and the contemporary world, the painting student develops skills and proficiencies that enable him to interpret his ideas and concepts through the creative process. (6 hours lecture, 3 hours lab) |
| 260 | American
Art to the 20th Century (3).
History of American painting, sculpture, and architecture from the Colonial period to Present times. Offered on demand |
| 270 | Graphic
Design I (3).
Exploration of formal resources, systems, conceptual principles, and procedures underlying the practice of graphic design, as well as the history of the medium. Emphasis is placed on the process of problem-solving by design, the visualization of problems and solutions, and the correlation of forms with their content, function, and context. |
| 271 | Graphic Design II (3).
Prereq.: ART 270.
Assignments require strong visual concepts and economy of thought in basic graphic forms, with emphasis on typography as a medium and message of design. Solutions are developed for real world graphic design problems. |
| 280-281 | Basic Sculpture (3-3). Prereq.: ART 120-121, 130-131.
This is an introductory course for those who have had little or no experience with sculpture. The concepts and techniques, idea and form, materials to methods of sculpture are all examined. Techniques involving subtractive sculpture (wood) and additive (clay) are explored along with the construction process of assemblage of traditional and nontraditional materials. |
| 300 | Art for Teachers (3). Prereq.: EDU 221 or PSY 231.
Study of the child's relation to art and the methods by which art may be made an integral part of a regular school curriculum. Designed for prospective teachers in elementary schools. |
| 301-302 | Independent Study and Research (1 or 2). Prereq.: Junior standing.
An opportunity for students to pursue special artistic projects and research under faculty supervision. Available upon the chairman’s approval of a proposal from the student and the faculty member’s submission of a syllabus. (Honors) |
| 320-321 | Studio Drawing (3-3). Prereq.: ART 220-221 and consent of the instructor.
Studio drawing at this level is a continuation of ART 220-221. The student continues to draw from the model and looks for a sense of direction while developing and refining drawing skills. The student develops conceptual and interpretive skills. (6 hours lecture, 3 hours lab) |
| 332-333 | Computer Graphics III-IV (3-3).
Prereq.: ART 230-231.
A continuing overview of computer graphic applications, including Painter, 3-D, and animation applications. |
| 335 | Digital Prepress (3).
Prereq.: ART 230-231, 271.
Introduces students to all aspects of the preparation of design work for printing in mechanical digital form. Software programs are reviewed and designer/client communication is addressed, along with service bureaus, project planning, comps, and scanning procedures to achieve successful reproduction. |
| 340-341 | Advanced Photography (3-3).
ART 340 Prereq.: ART 240-241.
Emphasis on developing the black and white portfolio in order to define the individual conceptual and technical style. Experimentation in alternative photographic processes, mixed media and various formats are encouraged. (6 hours lecture, 3 hours lab) (Honors) |
| 350-351 | Studio Painting (3-3). Prereq.: ART 250-251, and consent of the instructor.
Emphasis on experimentation and innovation in painting. Optional semester-long emphases in mural painting, portraiture, or hyper-realism will be available to the students. (6 hours lecture, 3 hours lab) |
| 360 | World Art
(3).
A survey of the art of selected peoples and cultures throughout history from Africa, Asia, Oceania, North and South America will endeavor to identify the universals of visual language while also seeking to bring Christian discernment to a reading of distinctive styles and methods as they embody worldviews. Open to non-art majors.(Honors) |
| 361 | Western
Art I (3).
This study of the history of art from the Ancient Near East through the Gothic period introduces students to the touchstones of western artistic tradition, viewed from the context of Christian critical analysis. Open to non-art majors. (Honors) |
| 363 | History
of Printmaking (3).
A study of developments in the sub-disciplines of this medium as related to the major eras and movements of the Western tradition from the pre-Renaissance through the 20th century. Oriental art as exemplified by the development of relief printing will be examined, as well as the post-modern world of fine art print production. Offered on demand |
| 370 | Graphic Design III (3). Prereq.: ART 270-271.
Students develop sound conceptual thinking and problem-solving skills through the creation and implementation of specific design systems. Includes advanced application of the grid to facilitate the integration of typography and visuals. |
| 371 | Graphic Design IV (3).
Prereq.: ART 370.
Students develop more sophisticated abilities through problem-solving activities geared to increased graphic design awareness and skills. Portfolio work prepared. |
| 375 | Sequential Design (3).
Prereq.: ART 270-271.
A design laboratory exploring the unique problems and potentials of sequential images. Focuses on issues of pacing, continuity, and dramatic structure. After mastering the fundamentals of sequencing images, students progress to increasingly complex and challenging projects. |
| 380-381 | Figurative Sculpture (3-3) Prereq.: ART 280-281, and consent of the instructor.
Students will continue to refine their skills for figure modeling through drawing and work in clay. From the human head to the complete figure, detailed work will continue where the basic sculpture class left off. Form, structure, materials, and basic design concepts are put to use. Students study figure structure through exploratory sketches and clay on an armature. |
| 399 | Internship (3).
An on-the-job supervised practical experience in a graphic design studio, museum, gallery, advertising agency, artist apprentice, or business related to the promotion of art professions. Approved by art faculty. Maximum internship credit is six hours, nine hours for graphic design. Graded on a pass or fail basis only. Senior standing or second semester junior and approval of the department chairman. Refer to “Student Intern Programs and Internships” for further requirements. |
| 401-402 | Independent Study and Research (2-2).
Supervised research and instruction in a practical or theoretical field of art. Open by invitation to junior or senior art majors only, by special arrangement with the chair of the department. Two-semester projects are preferred; one-semester projects will be considered subject to department approval. Requirements of the course include an analytical and/or research paper (length to be determined in consultation with the advisor) and an exhibition of pertinent work when applicable as well as an oral defense of the project before the art department faculty. |
| 420-421 | Studio Drawing (3-3). Prereq.: ART 320-321 and consent of the instructor.
The student continues to refine conceptual, observational, technical, and interpretive skills in the development of a coherent body of work. (6 hours lecture, 3 hours lab) |
| 432 | Communication Design (3).
Prereq.: ART 270-271.
Introduction to the development of visual communication concepts. Drawing on such sources as film, the graphic novel, literary fiction, and the photographic essay, assignments encourage students to explore a variety of structural techniques in visual storytelling, narration, and expository information design. Includes exploration of headline and copywriting for intended demographics and the correlation of forms with their content, function, and contest, particularly in relation to the written word. |
| 433 | Portfolio Preparation (3).
Prereq.: ART 370.
Prepares students to enter the work force. Individual attention is provided to refine portfolios and make them more competitive, along with creating and producing a resume and self-promotion piece. Includes study of the psychology of success for creative professions. |
| 440 | Advanced
Photography (3).
A studio emphasis will address lighting and table-top product photography in a commercial context. Black and white as well as color photography will be explored. |
| 441 | Advanced
Photography (3).
A portfolio class in which the student will creatively interpret commercial copy by fabricating and shooting small environments and vignettes both in and outside of the studio. Both color and black and white photography will be explored. |
| 450-451 | Studio Painting (3-3). Prereq.: ART 350-351, and the consent of the instructor. Emphasis on experimentation and innovation in painting. (6 hours lecture, 3 hours lab) |
| 460 | Western
Art II (3).
This survey of developments in European art continues from the Renaissance and proceeds through the Romantic period, ca. 1850. In addition to formal and technical considerations, emphasis will be placed on understanding and evaluating intent and meaning in light of the Christian worldview. Open to non-art majors. (Honors) |
| 461 | Western
Art III (3).
The focus of this course will be the last 150 years’ developments in the arts, primarily of Europe and America. Artifacts embody ideas, and in this period they often did so intuitively, ahead of the general assimilation of those ideas into society. Students will be introduced to the images of modernity and postmodernity as viewed from a Christian perspective in an attempt to understand the artistic context of our times. Open to non-art majors.(Honors) |
| 462 | Modern
and Contemporary Art Theory (3).
This survey of texts and other statements by artists, art critics, and philosophers from c.1860 to the present examines the major theories informing visual art practices in the modern and postmodern world. Analysis of these ideas, as well as the works of art they inform, from a Christian perspective prepares visual arts majors to enter knowledgeably and redemptively into contemporary artistic discourse. |
| 470-471 | Graphic Design V-VI (3-3). Prereq.: ART 370.
Advanced study of specific graphic design problems, specialized in accord with student interests and needs. Areas of exploration to be selected from among the following: online media design, advertising design, animation, audio/video packaging design, editorial and publication design, exhibit graphics, package design, and the like. Portfolio work prepared. |
| 480-481 | Advanced Sculpture (3-3) Prereq.: ART 380-381, and consent of the instructor.
This work forum is designed to discuss a wide range of sculptural, aesthetic, philosophical, and sculptural innovation issues. Great latitude to pursue one’s own choice of working concepts, style, and material is given. |
| 498-499 | Internship (3-3).
Practical, on-the-job experience in a visual arts-related context such as a graphic design or advertising agency, museum, gallery, artist’s studio, or other art-related profession. Supervised by art faculty; graded pass-fail. Maximum internship credit is six hours, nine hours for graphic design. Senior or junior standing and approval of the department chairman. Refer to “Student Intern Programs and Internships” for further requirements. |
