HomeMy WebLinkAboutART-124Bergen Community College
Division of Arts & Humanities
Department of Visual Arts
Course Syllabus
ART-124: Drawing
Basic Information About Course and Instructor
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Course Description
Official Catalog Course Description:
ART-124: Drawing is an introductory course in drawing that explores technical and expressive
applications of line, form, value, spatial relationships, and composition. Students will work with
various media, including pencil, charcoal, and ink, to develop observational and imaginative
drawing skills. Coursework includes in-class exercises, homework assignments, discussions,
and critiques.
Credits: 3 (3 lecture, 1 lab)
Pre-requisites: None
Co-requisites: None
Student Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate proficiency in fundamental drawing techniques and observational skills.
2. Apply principles of composition and design in their artwork.
3. Utilize various drawing media and techniques effectively.
4. Develop a personal visual style and expressive approach to drawing.
5. Analyze and critique drawings using appropriate artistic terminology.
Means of Assessment:
● Portfolio evaluations
● In-class critiques
● Homework assignments
● Written reflections on artistic development
Course Content
● Introduction to drawing materials and techniques
● Contour, gesture, and structural drawing
● Value studies and light/shadow rendering
● Perspective and spatial relationships
● Still life, portrait, and figure drawing
● Experimentation with mixed media
● Composition and personal expression in drawing
Course Texts and Study Materials
Required:
● Brooke, Sandy. Drawing as Expression, Prentice Hall, most recent edition
● Mendelowitz, Wakeham, and Faber. A Guide to Drawing, Thomson Wadsworth, most
recent edition
Grading Policy
● 40% In-class Portfolio: Includes all in-class exercises demonstrating technical and
conceptual proficiency.
● 40% Homework Portfolio: A collection of outside-class drawings reflecting growth and
exploration.
● 10% Attendance and participation: Regular engagement in discussions, critiques, and
studio work.
● 10% Meeting deadlines: Timely submission of assignments and projects.
Attendance Policy
Attendance is mandatory. One absence is permitted without penalty. Additional absences will
lower the attendance grade by one full letter per absence. Excessive lateness or leaving early
will also affect the final grade.
Other Policies
● Plagiarism & Academic Integrity: All work must be original. Copying or tracing without
instructor approval is prohibited.
● Use of Technology: The use of digital tools may be integrated for reference and
research purposes.
Course Outline & Calendar
Week 1: Introduction to course and materials, warm-up exercises
Week 2-3: Contour and gesture drawing, proportion studies
Week 4-6: Value rendering and spatial relationships
Week 7: Midterm critique and portfolio review
Week 8-10: Perspective and compositional strategies
Week 11-12: Portrait and figure drawing
Week 13: Abstraction and experimental techniques
Week 14-15: Final portfolio review and class critique