Art Studio

This course focuses on visual representations as a path to recognition and cultural identity. Conceptual, cultural, and symbolic issues in image compositions within the context of inclusion are discussed as well as understanding and developing inclusive artistic processes and techniques for visual representation.

This course examines clothing development within the context of the apparel production process. Topics include performance criteria, cost and quality relationships, anthropometrics and sizing, garment fit, trims and findings, stitches and seams, structural treatments, and garment assembly. Students analyze how design features and construction details influence garment quality, functionality, and production outcomes. Course goals are to analyze and clearly communicate garment components in relation to product cost, quality, and performance; to demonstrate understanding of apparel manufacturing processes and terminology used in sewn product development; to evaluate stitches, seams, and construction methods in terms of production efficiency, cost, durability, and quality; to assess support materials, closures, threads, and trims based on their functions, characteristics, and impact on apparel quality and performance; and to understand the elements of good fit and indications of poor fit in RTW apparel.

This course focuses on creative stimulation processes and techniques, scene design, and object and interface design. It discusses the tools and skills in using applications related to drawing, creativity, perspective, color, chiaroscuro, and teamwork for application in the professional field of concept art. Topics include: Digital techniques; creative stimulation techniques; definition and representation of the environment; design of objects and props; interface design; portfolio design.
 

This course examines how the basic physical and cognitive principles (ergonomics, heuristics, human-centredness) are incorporated in successful designs across a wide variety of different sectors.

This course covers basic skills and aesthetic principles of photography, how the camera works, types of cameras and digital image capture, techniques in taking pictures, in camera editing, specialized forms of photography, simple editing adjustments, the aesthetics of picture taking. 

This foundation-level studio course introduces the methods, materials, tools, and concepts of working across Surface (2D), Space (3D), and Time (4D)—both independently and in relation to one another. Students develop their own ideas while engaging with themes presented by the faculty, exploring how form and concept intersect. Core Studio integrates formal experimentation with conceptual inquiry, situating practice within both historical and contemporary contexts. Through lectures, demonstrations, readings, and short in-class assignments, students explore a wide range of approaches to contemporary cultural production. Studio work, individual meetings, and critiques are designed to encourage reflection, experimentation, and the development of a personal visual language. The course emphasizes a supportive and inclusive studio culture that respects diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Students are expected to actively participate in class discussions, critiques, and collaborative exercises, contributing to a critical and respectful environment. Occasional field trips and excursions outside the classroom supplement studio practice, offering additional opportunities for research and inspiration. Assignments encourage sketching, prototyping, editing, and problem-solving, while short readings foster critical awareness of the ideas and methods driving contemporary art. The course is designed to expose students to key debates and practices, while pushing them toward their own learning edges. Active engagement, risk-taking, and accountability are essential for building a confident, self-motivated practice.

This course reviews the world of graphic arts and printed communication—from magazines and brochures to billboards, packaging, and promotional items.  It covers the complete print production workflow, including pre-press, printing, and post-press processes. Students learn how to manage a print project from initial client need to final delivery, exploring the technical and creative aspects of production across various materials and formats.  Special attention is given to selecting the right printing techniques based on project requirements, cost, and intended impact. Students gain hands-on knowledge of how different substrates, formats, and finishes affect the visual and functional outcome of a print product.

Students are expected to have prior experience with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign). Completion of courses in Graphic Design Tools, Advertising Poster Design, and Art Direction is strongly recommended.

The course develops practical drawing skills, focusing on freehand representation of three-dimensional objects and the use of both dry and wet techniques. Students learn to select the most appropriate methods for different subjects, apply expressive and communicative criteria, handle drawing tools with precision, and accurately use the terminology of the discipline.

This is an advanced level art studio course for students with prior experience. Course contents: Using and knowing tools, materials, and techniques; function and possibility to use of the following materials: plaster and scagliola, modeling clay, gelatin, synthetic silicone rubbers, waxes, foundry sands, nails or pins, metal rods, irons, burners, etc.; function, knowledge, and application of various molding techniques: piece molds, gelatin molds, synthetic rubber molds, lost molds, etc.; reproducing wax models, retouching, arranging channels (pouring and vents), creation of molds with refractory earth mixtures (core and external shells), firing molds in electric and gas furnaces, etc.; degree of metal fusion, composition, characteristics, and behavior; knowledge of casting techniques: lost-wax casting, pressure casting, cuttlebone casting, flask casting, centrifugal casting, casting in porcelain-based molds and chemical agglutinates; types of furnaces used for casting: reverberatory, crucible, electric, etc.; different procedures for pouring molten metal (with crucible, with ladle, etc.); analysis of defects and methods for finishing castings: sandblasting, chasing, gilding, patination, etc.; historical and cultural references to past casting processes.

Lessons involve individual or group design and realization of a project through foundry techniques under the supervision of the instructor. In addition, the course includes hours dedicated to the discussion and review of projects, until the final exam. The exam is an evaluation of the project and of the theoretical knowledge acquired by the student. To pass the exam, students must attend regularly, complete the project, and submit a final report with pictures illustrating the work phases, as well as the content and stylistic choices.

This is course that runs for the entire year. Part A, offered during the fall semester, is worth 6 quarter units.