HomeMy WebLinkAboutART-128Bergen Community College
Division of Arts and Humanities
Department of Visual Art
Course Syllabus
Course Designation, Number, and Title
ART-128: Watercolor
Basic Information About Course and Instructor:
Semester and Year:
Section Number:
Meeting Times:
Location:
Instructor:
Office Location:
Email Address:
Course Description:
This course is an introduction to the techniques and aesthetic considerations of watercolor
media. The curriculum covers a formal study of structure, spatial relationships, value,
composition, color temperature, and texture, as well as contemporary approaches unique to
watercolor. Subjects include portraiture, still life, interiors, landscapes, and abstract/nonobjective
compositions. Outside assignments are required.
Credits: 3 credits (2 lectures, 2 labs)
Pre-requisites: None
Co-requisites: None
Student Learning Outcomes:
As a result of meeting the requirements in this course, students will be able to:
1. Utilize tools and materials used in watercolor painting.
2. Demonstrate proficiency in traditional and non-traditional watercolor techniques.
3. Create well-composed and executed paintings using watercolor media.
4. Communicate artistic ideas and concepts effectively.
5. Identify and analyze historical influences in watercolor painting.
Means of Assessment:
● Graded classwork and homework assignments
● Final project
● Class participation
● Midterm and final critiques
Course Content:
● Water-based media techniques and demonstrations
● Study of form, spatial relationships, and composition
● Assignments covering still life, portraiture, interiors, landscapes, and abstraction
● Museum visit and related assignment
● Historical and contemporary watercolor masters
Course Texts and Study Materials:
Required Materials:
● Paper: Watercolor pads (9x12 and 18x24), Mixed Media pad (14x17)
● Brushes: 1 flat Hake brush (1.75 in); 1 Sapphire w/c brush (sizes 14, 8, 4 round)
● Paints: Watercolor set including Azo Yellow, Cadmium Yellow, Ultramarine Blue, Phthalo
Blue, Naphthol Red, Alizarin Crimson, Titanium White, Black
● Miscellaneous: Palette, graphite pencils, jars, 1-inch blue drafting tape
Recommended Text:
● Dewey, David. The Watercolor Book: Materials and Techniques for Today’s Artist.
Watson-Guptill, 2000.
Bibliography of Supportive Books:
● Armstrong, Carol. Cézanne in the Studio: Still Life in Watercolors
● Gotz, Adriani. Cézanne Watercolors
● Little, Carl. The Watercolors of John Singer Sargent
● Itten, Johannes. The Elements of Color
Research, Writing, and/or Examination Requirements:
Students are required to conduct research on watercolor artists, attend exhibitions where
applicable, and complete outside assignments.
Grading Policy:
● 30% Midterm critique (includes homework and classwork assignments)
● 30% Final critique (includes homework and classwork assignments)
● 20% Final project
● 20% Classroom attendance and participation
Grading Scale:
● A = Excellent work and high level of effort
● B+, B = High caliber work and effort
● C+, C = Average work and effort
● D = Below average work and effort
● F = Poor work, lack of effort, or failure to complete assignments
Attendance Policy:
Students are expected to attend every class. Missing three unexcused classes will result in a
grade reduction. Persistent lateness and leaving early will affect the student’s grade.
Other College, Divisional, and/or Departmental Policy
Statements:
Refer to the Bergen Community College policy statements on plagiarism, academic integrity,
and student support services.
Student and Faculty Support Services:
Students can access tutoring, academic coaching, and additional resources at
(https://bergen.edu/currentstudents/).
Course Outline and Calendar:
Week Topic/Activity Assignments/Events
1 Introduction to course, materials, and
techniques
Purchase materials
2 Still life - monochromatic study Form study with light source
3 Still life - full color palette Composition and temperature
study
4 Organic object studies Exploration of texture and color
5 Figure study - live model Anatomy and form
6 Expressive figure study Study of movement and emotion
7 Midterm critique All work due for review
8 Interior composition and perspective Study of interior spaces
9 Landscape painting - en plein air Atmospheric perspective study
10 Advanced landscape techniques Texture and environment
11 Abstract/non-objective composition Developing personal style
12 Abstract composition refinement Exploring modern techniques
13 Final project development Begin final series
14 Final project continuation Individual critiques
15 Final critique All work due for final review
Note: This course outline and calendar are subject to change.