ART 121 Introduction to Digital Arts

Lecture Hours: 2
Lab Hours: 4
Credits: 4

Introduces the basics in digital imaging and layout skills using industry standard software and devices through digital imaging, image manipulation, layout, typography, and digital output. Focuses on the computer as both technical and creative tool in art and design. Introduces students to both raster and vector based software with focus on both the technical and creative use of the computer. Includes discussion of formal design concepts, design process, image appropriation and creative solutions.

Prerequisite: Placement into WR 115 (or higher), or completion of WR 090 (or higher); and completion of ART 115; or consent of instructor. (All prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of C or better.)
Student Learning Outcomes:

Demonstrate basic understanding of MAC operating system and be able to navigate between applications.
Demonstrate a basic understanding of digital imaging software, both raster and vector based, through successful navigation and applications of tools and commands.
Identify and select appropriate software for graphic needs.
Digitize images using the industry standard format and resolution for given media with additional attention to color management.
Understand and perform basic file management including utilization of storage devices for saving and backup of work files.
Demonstrate effective utilization of input and output devices.
Apply the elements and principles of design in the creation of a digital art and design.
Utilize each stage of the design process to generate creative design ideas and strategies.
Understand appropriation, copyright and fair use issues.

Additional Statewide General Education Outcomes

Interpret and engage in the Arts and Letters, making use of the creative process to enrich the quality of life.

Critically analyze values and ethics within a range of human experience and expression to engage more fully in local and global issues.

Content Outline

Intro to Mac OS X
- Basics of the Finder and file management
- Trouble shooting
- Cross-platform compatibility
Hardware and Peripherals
- Computers, monitors
- Input devices: scanners, and digital cameras
- Printers
- Servers
- Devices and methods for saving and retrieving files
- Devices and methods for backups and archival storage
Software and File Formats
- Selecting the appropriate software for given tasks
- Linked and embedded files
- File format, size, and resolution
- Combining several applications for one project
  - Combining raster and vector graphics
  - Rasterizing vector files
- Re-purposing files
- Color modes
- Font issues
- PDF files
- File management
Photo Editing Software
- Basic tools and menu
- Selection tools and methods
- Transforming selections
- Layers and masks
- Cloning and basic compositing
- Color modes
- Adjustment Layers
- Levels and Curves
Page Layout Software
- Frame-based documents for print
- Grids, guides and master pages
- Placing content: text and images
- Typesetting basics
- Paragraph and character styles
- Working with imported images
- Preparing for print
Vector Graphic Software
- Preferences, guides, grids, and snap-to’s
- Selections
- Paths and the pen tool
- Path simplification
- Transforming objects
- Basic typography
- Color modes and palettes
- Layers
- Tracing raster images
Isolate, Analyze and Apply Elements and Principles of Design
- Formal design exercises
- Applied in creative applications
Differentiate between Form, Content and Style
- Deconstruction of found examples
- Construction of abstract and representational designs
Design Process
- Creative process - definition, discovery, revision, refinement.
- Critical feedback
- Additional solutions or variations in application of media
Image Use Policy
- Appropriation
- Fair Use
- Copyright