Introduction to Painting Art 121 Syllabus MW 1:00 - 3:40 Room E8 Instructor: Prof. Heidi Jensen Office Hours Monday & Wednesday 3:45 - 4:30 by appointment Link to the Schedule...

". . .the object of art is not to reproduce reality, but to create a reality of the same intensity."  ~Alberto Giacometti

This course will provide an introduction to the materials, processes, and discipline required to create paintings. In this class, you will explore the medium of acrylic and oil paints through the use of different techniques and approaches to materials. Painting requires both spontaneity and patience; in this class we will work from observation and from imagination. This course is worth three credits.

In this course, you will:

• Learn basic techniques and concepts of acrylic and oil painting
• Strengthen composition and design skills
• Mix colors from observation
• Execute projects using appropriate color properties and harmonies
• Develop awareness of imagery and content
• Use critique skills to examine your artwork and the artwork of others

This class will be divided into a series of six projects, due at two to three week intervals throughout the semester. During class time, we will work on specific projects and exercises. These will be accompanied by slide presentations and demonstrations. Outside of class, you will be expected to spend at least 4 to 6 hours each week completing projects and assignments.

Each project will include the assignment of one painting as well as accompanying pieces of smaller, experimental work. These projects should be presented as finished works of art. They should be representative of your best work. We will have formal critiques for some of these. We will work on a variety of surfaces including paper and canvas, and you will learn to make stretcher bars as well as stretch and prepare your own canvases.

You will be expected to participate in critiques. We will have informal critiques for in-class projects. We will have more structured critiques for out-of-class projects. You will be expected to talk about your work, and your classmates' work, and to offer advice and criticism. Critiques should not be missed, since everyone needs the opportunity to hear opinions on their work and to offer their own. Missing a scheduled critique will be the equivalent of two absences.

You will receive a letter grade for each project (final painting and support work) you hand in. We will meet at mid-term to discuss your progress and status in the class, and you will receive a progress grade at this point. You will also be graded on class participation. This includes attendance and contribution to critiques.

Attendance is mandatory. You must attend class for the full time period. More than two unexcused absences will affect your grade negatively. Excessive tardiness and leaving early will also affect grades! For every absence, the final grade will be lowered by half a letter grade. If class is missed, it is your responsibility to contact me regarding the missed material. Missing a critique will be the equivalent of two full absences. Be sure to come prepared with the proper materials for each class session!

Paintings will be evaluated on the following criteria: handling of technique and concept, effort, creativity and thoughtfulness, and composition. Specific criteria will be handed out with individual assignments.

Grades will be also be determined by effort, quality of work, and progress. Late work will affect your grade negatively.

Project 1:	15%
Project 2:	15%
Project 3:	15%
Project 4:	15%
Project 5:	25%
Participation:	15%

• 6 tubes of acrylic paint
• 3 brushes
• gesso
• 6 tubes of oil paint, with linseed oil

• Palette
• Rags, paper towels
• Masking tape, 1" thick
• Assorted jars & containers
• Palette knife
• Canvas, stretcher bars, paper
• Drawing materials:
  • Pencils
  • charcoal
  • eraser
  • sketchbook
• Paper: Arches, BFK Rives
• Modeling paste, retarder
• Additional colors of paint