HomeMy WebLinkAboutART-108Bergen Community College
Division of Business, Arts, and
Social Sciences
Visual and Performing Arts
Department
Course Syllabus
ART-108 Sculpture 1
Basic Information about Course and Instructor
Semester and year:
Course and Section Number: Sculpture 1 ART-108
Meeting Times and Location: W326
Instructor:
Office Location:
Phone:
Departmental Secretary:
(optional) Office Hours:
Email Address:
Course Description:
This studio course offers an introduction and practical experience in developing sculptural
work. Hands-on experimentation with several media and differing approaches to three-
dimensional form are referenced with respect to historical and cultural influences. Students
use clay, cardboard, papier mache, wire or other materials. Web-enhanced presentations
regarding relevant artists, their works, and their techniques, will be followed by in-class
studio work.
3 credits; 2 lectures, 2 labs
Prerequisites: None
Co-requisites: None
Student Learning Objectives:
As a result of meeting the requirements in this course, students will be able to:
● Analyze and discuss elements and principles of design as related to 3-dimensional form
● Utilize various hand-building techniques and materials in developing 3-dimensional works
● Demonstrate a knowledge of historical and cultural influences on sculptural works
● Demonstrate a knowledge of the individual artists’ works discussed in class
Course Content
Each weekly class will begin with a web enhanced presentation of one or more relevant artists,
techniques, related sculptural works, and/or historical and cultural influences, followed by in-class
studio work. The course will explore techniques, tools, and materials* for hand-building in three-
dimensions. Students will create several works using additive and/or subtractive techniques in
materials selected from self-hardening clay, oven-baked clay, cardboard, papier mache, wire, and
found materials. Contemporary and historical sculpture will be referenced.
*Note re materials: No ceramic clay will be used, as the art department does not have a kiln.
Special Features of the Course
In-class studio work can include, but not be limited to, direct observation of the life model.
Means of Assessment (see grading policy below for details)
● 80% of grade: Course projects
● 20% of grade: Class participation
GRADING POLICY
1. Successful completion of projects: 80% of grade
Projects and assignments are evaluated based on achievement of technical and creative concepts,
thoughtfulness, attention to detail and originality of approach. As this class involves primarily hands-on learning,
class participation is an essential component of student success.
Class Projects: Each project will be graded as follows:
● Grade of A (100): This project shows originality in its approach and a mastery over technical skills. It also displays
attention to detail in all phases of execution and presentation. Substantial work is done in free lab hours, and/or at
home, and class time is used effectively. This project will reflect an independent commitment and interest on
the part of the student. The A grade is reserved for the best work and outstanding effort.
● Grade of B (90): This project is fully completed and shows technical competence as well as solid design
decisions. The project fulfills all of the requirements of the assignment.
● Grade of C (80): This project is completed in a sloppy fashion. The project will demonstrate a weak grasp over
relevant techniques and/or it lacks creativity and cohesiveness.
● Grade of D (70): This project is only partially complete or does not address the requirements of the assignment.
● Grade of F (60): Project is not completed; it is very late and/or done poorly.
2. Class participation: 20% of grade
This includes positive participation such as being involved in class discussions and critiques, making
use of class time to work on projects, and behaving with a general level of professionalism and respect
for the class environment. It also includes not talking or texting during a lecture period or group
critique.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
BCC Attendance Policy:
● All students are expected to attend punctually every scheduled meeting of each course in
which they are registered.
● Attendance and lateness policies and sanctions are to be determined by the instructor for
each section of each course. These will be established in writing on the individual course
outline.
● Attendance will be kept by the instructor for administrative and counseling purposes.
Sculpture Course Attendance Policy
Attendance will be taken during each class period. Success is dependent upon the student's participation in the
discussions and interaction with other students, in addition to focused individualized work in the studio. Success
cannot occur if a student is not in class. Therefore, three unexcused absences will result in the lowering of a full
letter grade at the end of the semester. Late arrivals and early departures will be noted and count as a half of an
absence. Six or more absences will result in an automatic failing grade. In the event of an absence or lateness, the
missed in-class work, as well as the homework, must be made up.
Required Course text
Title: The Sculpting Techniques Bible: An Essential Illustrated Reference for Both Beginner and Experienced
Sculptors
Author: by Claire Brown (Editor)
Spiral-bound: 192 pages
Publisher: Chartwell Books (September 8, 2006)
ISBN-10: 0785821422
ISBN-13: 978-0785821427
$14.99
Suggested Supplementary Reading (These titles will be available in the library on reserve):
OWNED BY THE LIBRARY
Title: Sculpture 1900-1945: After Rodin
Author: Penelope Curtis
Publisher: Oxford University Press
1999
ISBN: 0-19-210045-9 hardcover
$42.50 OOP
Title: Manuel Neri: Early Work 1953-1978
(Author), Price Amerson (Author), Corcoran Gallery of Art(Author), San Jose Museum of Art Publisher: Corcoran Gallery of Art; 1st Edition edition (June 1, 1996) Language: English ISBN-10: 0886750474 ISBN-13: 978-0886750473 https://bergencc.on.worldcat.org/oclc/34409386
Title: Modeling the Head in Clay: Creative Techniques for the Sculptor
Bruno Lucchesi (Author), Margit Malmstrom (Author)
Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Watson-Guptill; New edition edition (April 1, 1996)
ISBN-10: 0823030997
ISBN-13: 978-0823030996
https://bergencc.on.worldcat.org/oclc/4638143 1979 edition
$22.99
Title: The Figure in Clay: Contemporary Sculpting Techniques by Master Artists
Series: A Lark Ceramics Book
Hardcover: 176 pages
Publisher: Lark Crafts; Fifth ed. edition (August 1, 2005)
ISBN-10: 1579906117
ISBN-13: 978-1579906115
https://bergencc.on.worldcat.org/oclc/57143256
LIBRARY WILL PURCHASE
Title: The Bauhaus Group: Six Masters of Modernism
Author: Nicholas Fox Weber
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf
2009
ISBN: 978-0-307-26836-5 hardcover
$23.00 Alibris
Title: Manuel Neri: The Figure in Relief
Author: Bruce Nixon, and Maxwell L. Anderson
Hardcover: 198 pages
Publisher: Lucia Marquand (February 12, 2007)
ISBN-10: 1883124255
ISBN-13: 978-1883124250
$37.50
Title: The Sculptor’s Bible: The All-media Reference to Surface Effects and How to Achieve
Them Author: John Plowman Hardcover: 288 pages Publisher: Krause Publ (April 15, 2005) ISBN-10: 0896891941 ISBN-13: 978-0896891944
$29.99
Title: The Portrait in Clay: A Technical, Artistic, and Philosophical Journey Toward Understanding the
Dynamic and Creative Forces in Portrait Sculpture
Author: Peter Rubino
Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Watson-Guptill; 1st edition (November 1, 1997)
ISBN-10: 0823041026
ISBN-13: 978-0823041022
$18.99
Title: Sculpting the Figure in Clay: An Artistic, and Technical Journey To Understanding the Creative and
Dynamic Forces in Figurative Sculpture
Author: Peter Rubino
Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Watson-Guptill; 1st edition (April 20, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0823099245
ISBN-13: 978-0823099245
$32.50
Title: The Parthenon Frieze Author: Martin Robertson and Alison Frantz Hardcover: 16 pages Publisher: Oxford University Press; First Edition edition (1975) Language: English
ISBN-10: 0195197836 ISBN-13: 978-0195197839 $3.00 Alibris
Title: The Gates of Paradise: Lorenzo Ghiberti’s Renaissance Masterpiece Author:
Gary M. Radke (Editor)
Series: High Museum of Art Series
Hardcover: 184 pages
Publisher: Yale University Press; First Edition edition (August 2, 2007)
ISBN-10: 0300126158
ISBN-13: 978-0300126150
$30.00
Title: Assyrian Palace Sculptures
Author: Paul Collins
Publisher: University of Texas Press
2009 Hardcover
ISBN-13: 9780292721692 2009 Edition
ISBN-13: 0292721692
$45.00
Equipment: Tools and materials below are purchased by each student
Materials list may be added to throughout the course
● 8x10 (or similar) sketchbook
● Pencils (HB, 2B)
● Erasers: White and Kneaded
● Felt Tip Markers (assorted colors, large and small)
● Assorted sculptural tools for clay, wire, other materials
● Wood armature base
● Metal pipe armature
● 25 pounds self-hardening clay
● Assorted paint brushes
● Assorted acrylic paints
● Assorted cardboard, wire, and found objects
● Matt medium
● Plastic bags (for wrapping sculptures in progress)
● Blue painters tape
Research, Writing, and/or Examination Requirements:
Students will refer frequently to internet and other instructional materials.
Other College, Divisional, and/or Departmental Policy Statements
Statement on Accommodations for Disabilities
Bergen Community College aims to create inclusive learning environments where all students
have maximum opportunities for success. Any student who feels he or she may need an
accommodation based on the impact of a disability should contact the Office of Specialized
Services at 201-612-5269 or via email at ossinfo@bergen.edu for assistance.
Student and Faculty Support Services
The Distance Learning Office
– for any problems you may
have accessing your online
courses
Room
C-
334
201-612-5581
psimms@bergen.edu
Smarthinking Tutorial Service On Line
at:
http://www.bergen.edu/pages1/Pages/4787.aspx
The Tutoring Center Room L-
125
201-447-7908
http://www.bergen.edu/pages1/pages/2192.aspx
The Writing Center Room L-
125
201-447-7908
http://www.bergen.edu/pages1/Pages/1795.aspx
The Office of Specialized
Services (for Students with
Disabilities)
Room L-
116
201-612-5270
http://www.bergen.edu/oss
Sidney Silverman Library –
Reference Desk
Room L-
226
201-447-7436
Special Note on the Tutoring Center
The Henry and Edith Cerullo Learning Assistance Center encompasses the Tutoring
Center, the English Language Resource Center, and the Writing Center. The website of the
Learning Assistance Center is located at www.bergen.edu/pages/2192.asp. Tutoring
services are available for this course in the Tutoring Center. I strongly recommend that you
make use of those services as we progress through the course. As listed above, the
Tutoring Center is located in Room L-125, and its phone number is 201-447- 7908.
Special Note on the Food Pantry
The Bergen Community College Food Pantry is available to meet the urgent
needs of members of our campus community. The Food Pantry provides non-
perishable food items, toiletries, and additional support services in an environment
that emphasizes discretion and confidentiality. Anyone needing assistance is
encouraged to visit HS-100 (Office of Health Services) Monday through Thursday
from 9am-4pm and on Fridays from 9am-3pm. Donations will also be accepted at
HS-100. Please call 201-447-9257 for more information.
SAMPLE COURSE OUTLINE AND CALENDAR
Note to Students: This Course Outline and Calendar is tentative and subject to change.
Week(s) Date(s
)
Topics/Activities/Assignments
1 Introduction: Discuss syllabus. Introduce materials and use of
sketchbook. Discuss methods of finding inspiration. Overview of library
resources and web-enhanced sculptural examples.
2–4 Project #1: Three weeks of portrait work from the life model. Students
will have their first experiences in building an armature, adding clay to it,
modeling the clay into an interpretive likeness. Artists referenced will
include, among others, Jo Davidson, Elizabeth Catlett, Jacob
Epstein, Robert Arneson. Sculptural drawing will also be introduced.
5–7 Project #2: Three weeks of figure work from the life model. Students will
build a smaller armature than project #1, adding clay to it, modeling the
clay into an interpretive likeness. Artists referenced will include, among
others, Viola Frey, Rodin, Michelangelo, Alberto Giacometti, Manuel
Neri, Judy Fox. Sculptural drawing will continue.
8–11 Project #3: Students will use materials of their choice during a four-week
project developing a work based on cultural research. Example: Students
will research and sculpt a god of their choice from a culture other than the
one they were born into. Materials will be selected from one or more of the
following: Clay, Fimo, Sculpey, papier mache, wire, wood, found objects,
others. Artists referenced will include, among others, Simone Leigh,
Antony Gormley, Matthew Monahan, Magdalena Abakanowicz,
Picasso, Peter Voulkos. Sculptural drawing will continue.
12-16 Final Project: Each student will develop a self-directed project, using
materials of personal choice, that will explore a personal aesthetic and
conceptual interest. Artists referenced with include, among others, Henry
Moore, Barbara Hepworth, Louise Bourgeois, and Thomas Houseago.
Semester will conclude with a class critique of the final project.