Art Course Descriptions
Core Studios
Drawing Anatomy Studio
Focuses on the complex and compelling subject of the human body by drawing and studying the model as a means to heighten sensitivity, expand visual perception and refine drawing skills. Introduces the landmarks of anatomical bone and muscle structure through a variety of drawing materials and processes
Digital Photography Studio
Introduces students to techniques of digital imaging and manipulation as a medium for artistic expression. Students will develop in-camera skills analogous to film-based photography, including exposure, focus, depth of field and composition. With the integration of computer software including Adobe Photoshop CS3 and Illustrator, students will also become familiar with a set of concepts specific to digital imaging, including imaging resolutions, RGBa, and file formats including RAW, TIFF and JPEG.
Painting Studio
Explores the tools, materials and techniques of painting to develop concepts and skills
necessary to study. Involves students in the creation and organization of shape, form, color and texture while experimenting with paint application and surface development.
Drawing Studio
Examine the making of two dimensional images through an array of techniques and materials such as charcoal, pencil, pen and ink and non-traditional materials. Sample a range of subject matter including still life, nature, architecture and the human figure.
Sculpture Studio
Explore three-dimensional concepts, skills and processes of sculpture. Using the machinery of the metal or woodshop, expand your technical vocabulary with tools such as MIG welders, oxy-acetylene torches, grinders, chop saws, miter and table saws as well as sewing machines. Work with materials such as metal, wood, plaster, plastic or fabric to explore contemporary issues in sculpture.
Ceramic Sculpture Studio
Introduces the use of clay as a sculptural material. Focus is on the basic construction and
finishing techniques in ceramic media including hand building, fabrication, surface design,
glazing and kiln firing. Explores the possibilities of ceramic media in contemporary sculpture.
Printmaking Studio
Investigate a wide range of printmaking techniques that may include: silk-screen, collograph, monotype, dry point etching and intaglio. Produce a portfolio of prints through exploring a variety of processes. Focus on the development of subject matter as well as technique.
Electronic Media
Experiment with digital imaging and/or electronic circuitry in this broad introduction to electronic media that can be both screen-based and spatial. Projects may include animation, QuickTime movies, creating Web sites, motorized components, interactive programming, light and sound and/or other multimedia projects.
Mini Courses
Collaborative Installation
Collaborate to create a public installation that merges art with ambition, grand scale
with group effort and innovation with intensity. Consider a theme, concept or issue with your peers. Envision a project together. Fan out to research and gather materials. Construct the work, publicize it and celebrate its completion.
Arts in the City
Explore the museums, galleries and public art spaces of Pittsburgh including the renowned Carnegie Museum of Art, Andy Warhol Museum, the Mattress Factory or the Industrial Arts Co-op. Learn more about the rich cultural resources of Pittsburgh through guest speakers and professionals in the arts.
Open to All Students
Faculty Lecture Series (Required)
Discover more about your instructors' creative professional lives as they present their work in evening sessions each week. Participate in a relaxed but lively dialogue over pizza and soda as they share their ideas and motivations.
Extra Open Figure Drawing Session (Three are required)
Focus on the figure one evening each week. Gain further experience in the structure of the human form while refining drawing skills and sampling materials of your choice. Develop and expand your sketchbooks and portfolios more independently in sessions supervised by
monitors.
All course offerings are contingent upon enrollment.