department calendar
degree programs
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undergraduate
degree requirements | courses | departmental honors | studio hours | how to enroll
director of undergraduate studies: Pamela Bannos
Our department believes in the inherent unity between the practice and theory of art. Beyond the development of skills and training in techniques, the study of art involves gaining both an understanding of visual thinking and an awareness of the histories, issues and concepts that bear on the direction and role of the visual arts in our culture today.
Most of our courses are designed to serve all students regardless of their major area of study. AT&P enrolls about 80 undergraduate art majors, while approximately 1,000 non-majors take our classes every year. Our undergraduate courses cover both traditional approaches and newer media and alternative strategies. Painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture and photography form the core of the undergraduate curriculum, giving students the opportunity to develop a solid foundation in the field's traditions and established media. The department also looks forward to experimental approaches and future developments in visual art making. We incorporate digital technology, video and conceptual art practice into our curriculum, thus blending newer trends with established practices. Also integral to our program are seminars in art theory, as well as critique classes in which enrolled students present new work for prolonged, in-depth analysis by the class. By the senior year, each department major is encouraged to elaborate his or her own self-motivated, individual studio practice in which artworks are produced independently of classroom assignments.
AT&P is also affiliated with the Animate Arts Program, and encourages undergraduates to pursue study across the visual and performing arts with particular emphasis on the links between the visual arts and other disciplines such as theater, film, music and computer science.
how to get into an at&p class
We realize how difficult it is for students to get into our undergraduate classes, but we encourage you to try. Every quarter, although our classes start off full, students drop out and we end the quarter under-enrolled. Here's what you do:
1. enter your name and email address on the waiting list in person, 3-400 Kresge
2. go to the first class (no matter how long the wait list)
3. if you don't get in at the first class meeting, go to the second class
If you have any questions, contact Maura Costa, department assistant
undergraduate studios
To insure safety and security, undergraduate work areas in Kresge Hall are available only to students enrolled in AT&P courses. Rooms are locked when not in use; see technician for access (technician location posted at Kresge 3-350).
technician
Matt Irie
3-356 Kresge Hall
847.491.4679
mirie@northwestern.edu
hours
Mon 9 – 10
Tue 9 – 10
Wed 9 – 10
Thu 9 – 10
Fri 9 – 4
Sat 11- 6
Sun 12- 6
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basic | intermediate | advanced
basic
Art 120-0 Basic Painting
This course addresses various problems in painting and introduces students to modes of visual thinking. Work will be done in a two-dimensional format using oil paint on a gesso-prepared ground on a canvas support. The focus is on acquiring the basic material and technical skills necessary to articulate visual ideas in oil paint, including how to organize compositions using color and value relationships, form and shape, placement and paint application. Although most exercises deal with problems in painting, considerable work in drawing may be required to support studies in the use of color and paint. Assignments may introduce students to a variety of subject matter, such as still life, landscape and the figure in representational and abstract form. Instruction is individualized and students and faculty participate in one-on-one discussions of works in progress. Students also participate in class discussions and critiques to develop the criteria for making their own judgments about works of visual art. Evaluation is based on the degree of growth, attendance, participation and the degree of mastery of painting materials and techniques. No prerequisites. P/N permitted.
Art 125-0 Basic Drawing
This course introduces students to the expressive use of various graphic media such as charcoal, pencil, crayon, chalk, pen and ink and/or brush and wash. Specific techniques such as form modeling, spatial illusions and principles of linear perspective may be explored. Through individual critiques and group discussions students develop an awareness of the relationship between observation, technique and expression. Evaluation is based on in-class performance, attendance, ability to absorb and use information and/or a final portfolio. No prerequisites. P/N permitted.
Art 140-0 Basic Sculpture
This course is a basic introduction to sculptural concerns and issues of three-dimensional form. It includes instruction in traditional modeling techniques in clay, plaster and woodworking. The teaching method includes slide lectures, demonstrations of techniques and individual guidance on studio projects. There are occasional group critiques and discussions of exhibitions or readings. Evaluation is based on the quality of the completed studio projects, participation in group critiques and attendance. No prerequisites. P/N permitted.
Art 150-0 Basic Photography
This course concentrates on extensive darkroom instruction focusing on the production of high-quality black-and-white prints. Class sessions are devoted to lecture/demonstrations and group critiques that address both technique and content. Students work during class sessions as well as independently and students should be prepared to work in the photo lab outside of scheduled class meeting times. Evaluation of student performance is based on attendance, ability to absorb and implement information and a final portfolio. No prerequisites. P/N permitted.
intermediate
210 Digital Tools for Artists
This course introduces the use of several digital tools that can be employed within a range of artistic endeavors. The main software programs that will be addressed are Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. Through lab exercises and assignments students will become familiar with the basic interface of these programs. Instruction will present methods of utilizing digital tools to amplify, explore and expedite art practice within diverse media such as painting, photography, sculpture, performance art and digital media itself. Each program is unique and equipped with specific attributes. The class will use the vector-based program, Adobe Illustrator to create linear and text-based objects; composited and painterly techniques will be explored through the use of the bitmap program, Adobe Photoshop. As each student chooses their mode of expression for the midterm and final project, individualized instruction can include additional interfaces — such as Adobe AfterEffects for motion graphics — as suited to the specific project. Through readings and lectures students will become conversant with areas of new-media theory applicable to the course, including issues addressing digital appropriation. Evaluation will be based on content and skill development, participation in class discussions, project completion and application of course materials. Prerequisite: One 100-level course in the department or permission of instructor.
Art 222-0 Intermediate Painting
Building on the concepts and skills learned in Basic Painting, this course is structured to help each student develop a visual language and technical skill. Brief lectures, demonstrations and discussions may be used to introduce and clarify new concepts. The instructor provides guidance through one-on-one discussion and group critiques. Evaluation is based on improvement in painting technique as well as personal growth toward independent self-expression. Prerequisite: 120 Basic Painting or permission of instructor.
Art 224-0 Color Theory
This course provides an introduction to color theory with emphasis on its application to the visual arts. Students will learn key terms and the basics of color physics and the physiology of visual perception. We will become familiar with theories of color relationships based on a color sphere incorporating both color and value with primary, secondary and tertiary colors identified. The course will explore characteristics such as hue, value and saturation; additive and subtractive color mixing; color interaction; simultaneous contrast; transparency; the relationship between form and color; and the spatial effects of colors. In addition, the distinctions between local and descriptive color versus subjective and expressive color, the psychological effect of colors, and symbolism and cultural associations will be addressed. Each project will be introduced with a lecture/presentation and examples of artwork relating to the problem investigated. Each project will be followed by a group critique of student work. Prerequisite: At least one 100 level art course in the department or permission of instructor.
Art 225-0 Intermediate Drawing
This course is structured on the premise that students have had previous experience with the basic elements of drawing. Attention is given to the continued development of perceptual abilities and drawing skills, as well as content and creative thought. Demonstrations, explanations, periodic critiques, and daily one-on-one dialogue are part of the teaching method. Effort, growth and inventiveness are major considerations in evaluation, as well as in-class performance, participation in critiques, attendance and the quality of the final portfolio. Prerequisite: 125 Basic Drawing or 120 Basic Painting or permission of instructor.
Art 230-0 Alternatives to the Object
Traditionally, we think of works of visual art as objects. However, since the 1960s the visual arts have been characterized by a wholesale questioning of how we understand what a work of art is on the most fundamental level. Instead of thinking of art as an object, many artists approach their practices from a variety of alternative points of view. With attention to history, theory and practice, this studio class will explore four distinct approaches to art’s creation and interpretation: art as gesture, art as idea, art as experience, and art as life (life as art). Prerequisites: At least one 100-level course in the department or permission of the instructor.
Art 231-0 Relief Printmaking
This course addresses the concepts and processes of relief printmaking including linoleum, woodcut, collograph, and/or monotype. A minimum of four prints will be produced, one using each technique. Step by step instruction of each technique is followed by individual assistance on each project. Periodic critiques are scheduled throughout the quarter to evaluate progress, technique, and to develop a critical vocabulary. Grading is based on attendance, technical proficiency, participation in class and the successful completion of four prints.
Prerequisites: 120 Basic Painting or 125 Basic Drawing or permission of the instructor.
Art 232-0 Intaglio
This course combines traditional techniques of etched and embossed mark-making with contemporary ideas of space, audience, and experimentation. We will explore plate preparation, drypoint, etching, proofing, aquatint, hard and soft ground, chine colle', editioning of prints, and modular multiples. Each technique will be demonstrated and paired with a related project, followed by individual guidance and periodic group critique aimed towards developing a critical vocabulary. Evaluation is based on attendance, technical proficiency, class participation, and the quality of a final portfolio. Prerequisites: 120 Basic Painting or 125 Basic Drawing or permission or instructor.
Art 240-0 Intermediate Sculpture
This course investigates concepts, forms and processes in sculpture with emphasis on the development of a personal artistic direction. Students develop individualized projects through class discussions and one-on-one meetings with the instructor. Emphasis is on experimentation, communication and interpretation. Students explore a variety of materials and approaches appropriate to their individualized projects with technical instruction as needed. Prerequisite: 140 Basic Sculpture or permission of instructor.
Art 250-0 Intermediate Photography
This course builds on the concepts and skills explored in 150-0 Basic Photography and includes advanced lab work and the photographic techniques of archival processing and studio lighting. Prerequisite: 150-0 Basic Photography or permission of instructor.
Art 252-0 Color Photography
This course explores techniques and issues of contemporary color photographic processes with some emphasis on archival digital printing. Familiarity with fundamental photographic processes is assumed and topics discussed build on critical and technical skills developed in 150 Basic Photography. Class time is divided between demonstrations of techniques and processes, group discussions and one-on-one discussions with the instructor about works in progress. Student evaluation is based on participation, growth and the strength of the work produced. Prerequisites: 150 Basic Photography or permission of instructor.
Art 260-0 Video Art
This course focuses on the studio production of video art. Students shoot, edit and present their works to the class. Critical inquiry into the use of video as a medium in the visual arts is explored through the viewing of key works and the examination of current trends in video art in galleries and museums, including the use of video in installation and its incorporation in sculptural works. Class work consists of the development of individual video works, readings, discussions, and the viewing of works by video artists. Through a series of technical workshops, students learn the basics of using a miniDV camera, sound, lighting, and editing with Finalcut Pro. Prerequisites: At least one 100 level course in the department or permission of the instructor.
Art 270-0 Contemporary Art Survey
This slide-lecture survey course is designed to give both art majors and non-majors an introduction to the myriad forms and concerns of art from the 1960s to the present. We will begin by examining the rise of pop and minimal art, and the challenge these movements--along with the earthworks, conceptual art, and performances that followed them--posed to the idea of modernism and the traditions of painting and sculpture. The question of postmodernism will be important to the course both thematically and chronologically. The second half of the course will focus on the issues raised by the return to representation in painting, by photography and other technologies of reproduction, by new media and genres like video art and installation, by shifts in concern regarding audience and public art, and by increased pluralism and globalism and their impact on our definitions of mainstream and avant-garde. No prerequisites. P/N permitted only if course is not used either as a general distribution or departmental requirement.
Art 272-0 Critical Methods for Contemporary Art
Art 290-0 Intermediate Special Topics
Topics vary. While this course will always have a strong studio component, format may also include lecture and/or seminar format. Prerequisites vary.
Art 290-1 Special Topics: Sumi-e
In this course, students will learn about the history and practice of the art of black ink painting. We will discuss its origin in ancient China and the Northern and Southern Sung masterpieces and their styles. Then we will move on to practice the fundamental techniques for this art form. Focus will be given to haiga, the highly abstract style of painting which is the accompanying form for haiku. Prerequisite: 120 Basic Painting.
advanced
Art 310-0 Digital Art
This course explores the skills and knowledge needed to create web-based and/or computer interactive works of art. It is designed to assist artists with varying levels of familiarity with computers to create and present work expressing a personal vision entirely within the digital realm. Software explored may include Photoshop, Freehand, Flash, Dreamweaver and other tools as needed. Teaching methods include technical instruction and demonstration and group discussion of digital works of art and student work. Prerequisites: One 100 level course in the department and 210-0 Digital Tools for Artists, or permission of the instructor.
Art 322-0 Advanced Painting
This course is designed for students who have completed both basic and intermediate level painting or the equivalent. The structure of this course emphasizes the development and coordination of each student’s individual studio practice. Focus on the figure or still-life may be used as a class concentration. Teaching methods include periodic critiques and one-on-one discussion. Evaluation is based on effort, growth, attendance and a final portfolio evaluation. Prerequisites: 222-0 Intermediate Painting or permission of instructor. P/N permitted.
Art 325-0 Advanced Drawing
This course is designed for advanced students with a high proficiency in drawing. Major emphasis is on the development of the graphic imagination through self-exploratory problems. Teaching methods include informal lectures in media technique, individual critiques and group critiques. Drawing problems are assigned throughout the quarter. A final portfolio is required. Prerequisites: 225-0 Intermediate Drawing or permission of the instructor.
Art 333-0 Lithography
In this course, a wide range of recently innovated techniques are taught on lithographic stone. Students learn traditional drawing techniques, wet and dry additive and subtractive, acid tinting, multiple color printing, reversal and transfer techniques. Professionally printed antique and contemporary lithographs are examined and discussed in the studio. There are daily technical demonstrations and discussions oriented towards specific individual creative goals. Course work is formally evaluated at mid-term and during exam week. The completion of all assigned projects, executed with serious consideration and technical proficiency, is expected.
Prerequisites: 120 Basic Painting or 125 Basic Drawing or permission of the instructor. P/N permitted.
Art 340-0 Installation Art
This course explores installation art in all media. Students may incorporate a variety of media including video, photography, painting, projected light, sound and sculptural materials in works that expand the physical boundaries of art beyond the discrete object. Emphasis is on independent projects with individual and group discussions throughout the quarter. Students are introduced to techniques for making proposals, lighting, installation and documentation. Prerequisite: 140-0 Basic Sculpture or permission of instructor.
Art 372-0 Seminar
Variable topics addressed in a seminar format.
Art 380-0 Studio Critique
This course is designed for advanced students who have already taken multiple courses in the department and are somewhat self-directed in their studio practice. In order to develop their own works, students will regularly present completed works or works in progress to the group for critique, advice and suggestions. This course helps students to develop their skills of interpretation and analysis, to become more articulate in their discussions of their own work and the work of others, and to learn to apply critical language effectively. Towards these ends, a great deal of class time will be spent on intensive group discussion of student work. The class may also discuss how to effectively and professionally document and install works of art and the writing of an artist’s statement. Prerequisite: Junior or Senior Status in Major or permission of instructor.
Art 390-0 Special Topics
Topics and format vary. Format will include some studio component and may also include lecture and/or seminar format. Prerequisites vary.
Art 399-0 Independent Study
Independent study is designed for advanced students who will work one-on-one with a faculty advisor to develop a specific independent studio project. Preference is given to senior honors candidates. Independent study students are accepted only by permission of the instructor, who must be a member of the full-time faculty, and by permission of the department chairperson. The teaching method varies somewhat with each individual faculty advisor, but generally students meet privately with their advisor on a bi-weekly basis.
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