ART 115 Basic Design: Black and White

Lecture Hours: 2
Lab Hours: 4
Credits: 4

Introduces the basic principles of design, visual perception, and organization of visual elements in works of art. Focuses on two-dimensional design.

Prerequisite: Placement into WR 115 (or higher), or completion of WR 090 (or higher) with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
Student Learning Outcomes:

Demonstrates understanding of terminology as used in design projects and critiques.
Use each stage of the design process to generate design content/ideas and strategies.
Apply the elements of two-dimensional design and principles of compositional organization to solve two-dimensional design problems and/or meaning (content).
Analyze and evaluate, in both written and verbal modes, the effectiveness of two-dimensional design and works of art (part/whole analysis/critique process).
Demonstrate a work ethic and exhibit a sense of craft.
Research historical and contemporary examples of art/design from culturally diverse sources and present conclusions in written form; analyze, critique, summarize.
Examine issues of sustainability and explain the effects of medium in artwork and materials.

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

Design Process
- Define - clarification of goals, restrictions, or limitations of design problem
- Brainstorm - non-judgmental series of written or roughly drawn “thumbnail” ideas, encouraging intuitive discovery and free association
- Analyze - testing the brainstorm designs against the goals and restrictions in Step 1
- Revise - modification to clarify or simplify the design [developing “roughs”]
- Refine - execution of finished work with the expected degree of craftsmanship
Critique (Analysis). Using both Written and Verbal Forms
- Separate ego and taste from design success
- Test finished work against original design problem requirements
- Articulate areas of success and areas of insufficiency
- Suggest solutions
Revisions
- Adapt and adopt critique information
- Provide more solutions or variations
- Rework the piece
Principles of Design Organization
- Harmony and variety
- Focal point
- Scale and proportion
- Balance
- Rhythm
Elements of Design
- Line
- Shape and volume
- Value
- Color
- Texture
- Space
- Time
Artistic Intent
- Content: cultural and symbolic meanings
- Subject matter
Media
- Integrity of materials
- Effects of medium on design and finish
- Appropriate medium for purpose
- Sustainable practices in use of media
- Safe disposal practice
Visual Literacy and Cultural Diversity
- Introduction to world art traditions, popular art, and commercial art
- Research project in one of these areas