Houston Community College Southwest
http://southwest.hccs.edu/southwest/academics/fine-arts-speech-humanities-and-languages
The information in black is required by the HCC system and Art Discipline.
Course Syllabus: Foundation Design One
HCC Academic Discipline: ART
Course Title: Foundation Design I
Course Rubric and number: ARTS 1311
Semester with Course Reference Number (CRN): Fall, 2012. CRN 25604
Campus and Room Location with Days and Times: Stafford Campus, Fine Arts Building,
Room 118, Monday & Wednesday 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Course Semester Credit Hours (SCH): 3 credits
Course contact hours per semester: 96
Course length: Regular Term, 16 weeks
Type of Instruction: Lecture/Lab 2/4
Instructor: Maryellen June Hill
Contact Information: Office phone: 713-718-5732
Art Department Phone: 713-718-7700
email address: maryellen.hill@hccs.edu (please put name and class in subject box)
Learning web address: http://learning.hccs.edu/faculty/maryellen.hill
Instructor Scheduled Office Hours and location:
Stafford: Learning Hub room 305 or Fine Arts Building, Room 118, MW, 11:00 AM -1:00 PM
West Loop: room C256, C235, or C241, TTh, 9:00–9:30 am, 12:30–1:00 pm, 4:00–4:30 pm.
Other times by appointment
Course Description:
1. Elements and principles of art using two-dimensional concepts As defined in the Academic
Course Guide Manual (AGCM) produced by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board,
2009 (THECB)
2. This beginning studio course explores the fundamentals of two-dimensional design: line,
shape, texture, color, value and composition. A variety of media will be used. Recommended
but not required as a first studio course. This course satisfies the fine arts component of the
HCC core. (As listed in the 2009-2011 HCC Catalog.)
Course Prerequisites: none
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Course Goal:
This course introduces the student to the basic elements specific to working in two dimensions. Simply
executed problems are directed to help students visually organize and understand formal issues, such
as pattern and rhythm, and the effects of line, shape, value, texture, and color on a flat surface. A
variety of materials are employed to facilitate rapid solutions. This course is a fundamental course.
This course will examine the interdependence of medium and image.
This course is the recommended prerequisite for students preparing for classes in drawing, painting,
and printmaking.
Course Student Learning Outcomes:
1. Identify, define and understand the formal elements of art and the principles of design. (Level 2)
2. Demonstrate the ability to produce and present finished works of exhibition quality. (Level 3)
3. Produce and critique projects that coordinate descriptive and expressive possibilities of course
media. (Level 5)
4. Select and verify course media and techniques in completed projects. (Level 6)
Design One Student Learning Objectives ~ related to each Learning Outcome
Learning Outcome One: Identify, define and understand the formal elements of art and the
principles of design. (Level 2)
The Supporting Learning Objectives:
1.1. Identify the formal elements and principles of design.
1.2. Compare and contrast selected formal elements.
1.3. Compare and contrast selected principles of design.
1.4. Comprehend all the sub-categories of all the formal elements and principles of design.
(for example, analytic or expressive line or symmetrical, radial or asymmetrical balance, etc.)
1.5. Express selected sub-categories of all the formal elements and principles of design.
Learning Outcome Two: Demonstrate the ability to produce and present finished works of
exhibition quality. (Level 3)
The Supporting Learning Objectives:
2.1. Produce exhibition-ready artworks.
2.2. Prepare entry labels.
2.3. Present completed exhibit entries before the entry deadline expires.
2.4. Select an artwork (made during the course) to be included in the student art exhibition.
2.5. Participate in the student exhibition.
Learning Outcome Three: Produce and critique projects that coordinate descriptive and expressive
possibilities of design. (Level 5)
The Supporting Learning Objectives:
3.1. Safely participate in the necessary practical tasks (safety and proficiency of handling of
tools, supplies and equipment, etc.) involved with the course media.
3.2. Organize the formal elements and principles of design in course projects.
3.3. Establish artistic roles for course projects.
3.4. Summarize artistic themes for course projects.
3.5. Judge course projects.
Learning Outcome Four: Create two-dimensional images which integrate and critique elements and
principles of design.
The Supporting Learning Objectives:
4.1. Produce nonobjective (or representational) 2d images that explore the formal elements
(line, space, light, color, texture, pattern, time and motion.)
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4.2. Produce nonobjective (or nonrepresentational) 2D images that explore the principles of
design (balance, emphasis, focal point, proportion, scale, rhythm, repetition, unity and
variety).
4.3. Incorporate the formal elements into 2D images.
4.4. Incorporate the principles of design into 2D images.
4.5. Synthesize the formal elements and principles of design in 2D images.
Core Curriculum Statement:
This course fulfills the following core intellectual competencies: reading, writing, speaking, listening,
critical thinking and computer literacy. A variety of teaching and testing methods are used to assess
these competencies.
This course fulfills the core competencies:
Reading: Reading at the college level means having the ability to understand, analyze and interpret
a variety of printed materials: books, articles, and documents.
Writing: Writing at the college level means having the ability to produce clear, correct, and coherent
prose adapted to a specific purpose, occasion, and audience. In addition to knowing how to use
correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation, students should also become adept with the writing
process, including how to determine a topic, how to organize and develop it, and how to phrase it
effectively for their audience. These abilities are acquired through practice and reflection.
Speaking: Effective speaking is the ability to communicate orally in clear, coherent, and persuasive
language appropriate to purpose, occasion, and audience.
Listening: Listening at the college level means having the ability to understand, analyze, and
interpret various forms of spoken communication
Critical Thinking: Critical thinking embraces methods for applying both qualitative and quantitative
skills analytically and creatively to subject matter in order to evaluate arguments and to construct
alternative strategies. Problem solving is one of the applications of critical thinking used to address
an identified task.
Computer Literacy: Computer literacy at the college level means having the ability to use computerbased technology in communicating, solving problems, and acquiring information. Core-educated
students should have an understanding of the limits, problems, and possibilities associated with the
use of technology and should have the tools necessary to evaluate and learn new technologies as
they become available.
HCC Calendar:
Classes Begin
Official Day of Record
Holidays and Breaks
Priority Deadline to file for graduation
Last day to drop classes with a grade of W
Instruction ends
Final examination
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August 27
September 10
Labor Day: September 3
Thanksgiving: November 22 - 25
October 15
November 2 – 4:30 PM
December 9 (December 5 for this
class)
December 10 - 16 (December 10,
1-3 PM for this class)
Class
And
Date
Lectures / Topics / Assignments / Projects / Critiques
ARTS 1317 Foundation Drawing II
16 week calendar:
Three hour studio session twice a week
CALENDAR
The following is a tentative schedule for the material we will cover in chronological
order. We may get a day or two ahead of or behind schedule, and the assignments may
change.
January
18 - Introduction to the course and supplies discussion; Design
Principles: Unity, Variety, Emphasis, Focal Point, Balance,
Scale, Proportion; Interrelationship of Forms; Introduce
Balance Project
23- Balance Project
25 - Balance Project due; Critique; Design Principles: Rhythm,
Repetition; Introduce and begin Unity/Repetition Project
30 February
1 - Unity/Repetition Project
6 “
“
“
8 - Unity/Repetition Project due; Critique; Design Elements:
Line; Introduce and begin Line Project
13 - Line Project
15 - Line Project due; Critique; Design Elements: Shape;
Introduce Shape Project, Discuss Field Trip and Essay #1
20 - Shape Project
22 - Shape Project due; Critique; Design Elements: Value;
Introduce and begin Value Project (you will need a photo of yourself for
this project);
27 - Value Project
29 - Field Trip: MENIL MUSEUM
March
5 - Value Project
7 – TEST 1 (beginning of class); Work on Value Project; Discuss
Field Trip and Essay #2
12 – NO CLASS – Spring Break
14 – NO CLASS – Spring Break
19 - Value Project due; Critique; Elements of Design: Color;
Introduce and begin Color Project
21 - Color Project; Due: Menil Essay
26 - “
“
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28 - FIELD TRIP: Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
April
2 - Color Project
4 - Color Project due; Critique; Elements of Design:
Texture/Pattern; Introduce and begin Texture/Pattern
Project
9 - Texture/Pattern Project ;
11 - Texture/Pattern Project due; Critique; Elements of Design:
Space, Motion; Introduce and begin Space or Motion
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May
Project
16 - DUE: MFAH Essay; Assign Final Project; Space or Motion
Project
18 - Space or Motion Project
23 - Space or Motion Project due; Critique
25 - Final Project
30 - Final Project;
2 - TEST 2: Color, Texture, Space, and general overview of
elements and principles; Work on Final Project with
time remaining.
Monday, May 7 - FINAL CRITIQUE: 1:00 - 3:00 a.m.,
DUE: Final Project
Please Note: It is possible that these dates might change slightly due to various circumstances.
You will be notified of changes and requirements
Critique Dates: Critique dates are the due dates of all projects. It is imperative that your work be
completed and ready for the class critique. Your participation in the critique is mandatory. The Fine Arts
Department philosophy is that verbal discussion enhances the student's awareness of art concepts and
his/her growth and direction.
Instructional Methods:
Methods of instruction may include: explanations, demonstrations, hands-on art studio work time, inclass critiques, slide presentations, video/film presentations, lectures, and/or readings (from
textbooks, peer-reviewed articles, books, original source seminal texts). Class time may include
demonstrations, field trips, assignments, introductions, studio time for projects, and critiques.
This course will provide you with a strong foundation in visual composition, which we will
explore using the elements (line, shape, value, color, etc.) and the principles (unity, balance,
proportion, etc.) of design. Most of this will be done with a hands-on approach, in which you
actually use design skills to create studio projects, using a variety of media. Through
museum field trips and the use of slides and reproductions, we will also look at and analyze
existing works of art, and learn to discuss their formal qualities. Additionally, there will be two
tests and two written essays over the course of the semester. Finally, there will be a student
exhibition in which participation is expected. Class time might include lectures,
demonstrations, field trips, assignments, introductions, studio time, and critiques. This
course is the recommended prerequisite for students preparing for classes in drawing,
painting, and printmaking.
Design is the "bones" underlying all creative efforts. It is a way seeing, choosing, and
organizing in an effort to create a dynamic whole. In this course students will explore the
fundamentals of 2-D design as they undertake a series of projects, each aimed at teaching a
certain design element or design principle. Design principles such as line, shape, texture,
value, scale, color, etc. will be introduced. A variety of materials and processes will be
introduced.
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Student Assignments:
Assignments/Activities may include: individual creative projects, written critical responses, group
projects, critiques, exams or quizzes, hands-on studio workdays/times, occasional gallery visits,
various assigned readings from textbooks, peer-reviewed articles, books, original source seminal
texts; mandatory discussions based on various topics related to the major areas of study in Art and
Design; writing papers including critiques, essays, analyses, reviews, research, comparing and
contrasting artistic or design theories and perspectives; service learning projects; presentations;
group and/or individual projects; portfolios. This course requires a minimum of 1000 words in a
combination of writing assignments and/or projects.
This is a studio course, meaning it is primarily concerned with the creation of works of
art. Therefore, most of our class time is spent working on visual projects, and it is imperative
that you come to class prepared and that you use class time effectively. You will probably
need to spend additional time working at home but this does not replace working in class. I
cannot help you improve if I'm not there while you work, and your best instruction is one-onone with me, discussing your personal artistic concerns. You will also benefit greatly from
the input of your peers. Some class time will be spent on lecture, slides, critiques, and
demonstrations. We will also view actual works of art at museums, and write about them.
Projects: Projects are designed to give you experience in working with the design elements
and principles. Generally, they focus on one or two specific things, but your knowledge is
cumulative, and so your overall compositions should improve as we go. A supplies list for
the projects is attached. Projects are due at the beginning of class and should be
presented in a complete state. Late projects drop by 5 points (1/2 letter grade) for each
missed period (measured from the beginning of class). After a project is more than three
class periods late, it receives a grade of zero.
Critiques: Throughout the semester we will have critiques, during which we will discuss, as a
class, the completed assignments. Critiques will be held on the day your project is due. You
are required to be an active participant in the discussion, both when your work is being
discussed and when it is someone else's turn. Speaking about your work as well as the
work of others will help you to clarify your artistic ideas and to communicate intelligently.
Feedback from me and from your peers will give you suggestions, ideas, and inspiration.
Also, the comments made by and about other works of art will point you in new directions.
Please keep and criticism constructive.
Field Trips and Essays: For learning about art, there is no substitute for viewing the real
thing. Slides and reproductions used in class are helpful, but they can't replace looking at
genuine works of art. Therefore you will take two field trips, one to the Menil Collection, and
one to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. There will be no class on these days. Instead you
will go to the appointed museum. For each field trip you will turn in a written essay (typed,
500 words) on a specified topic. Unfortunately, because the museums open later than we
begin class, they cannot correspond exactly in terms of time. If you have other obligations
that prevent you from going on the field trip with the class, you need go on your own at a
more convenient time. You are still responsible for writing your essay and turning it in on
time. Please make every effort to attend the field trips with the class. Interaction with others
in the class will help you to notice things you might miss on your own. Late essays are
treated the same as late projects: they lose 5 points for each period late, and receive a
grade of zero after three missed periods. Attendance credit for field trip days is given when
your paper is turned in, provided I am convinced you went to the museum. If no paper is
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turned in, or if the paper is more than three periods late, you are counted as absent.
Please note that the curriculum guidelines require you to write 1000 words to get a
grade of "C" or higher in the course. Your essays must be of sufficient length!!!
Tests: There are two tests scheduled for this class. Format may include multiple choice,
short answer, true/false, labeling, vocabulary, matching, etc. Tests will be over the material
we go over in class, so take notes, and be sure to get someone else's notes if you are
absent. If you are absent for the test, you will take it the day you return to class.
Student Exhibition: All students are expected to prepare one of their class projects for
submission to the student show. We will spend some class time working on this, but
ultimately, each student is responsible for properly preparing his or her own piece for
hanging, completing the required paperwork, delivering work to the show and collecting the
work after the show closes.
Student Assessments:
Methods of Assessment/Evaluation may include: portfolios, creative projects, tests and quizzes
which may include: definitions, matching, multiple choice, true/false, short answer, brief essay,
essay, lists; writing assignments, in-class discussions and/or critiques; written papers including
critiques, essays, analyses, reviews, research, comparing and contrasting artistic or design theories
and perspectives; service learning projects; presentations; group and/or individual projects; other
methods as may be determined by individual instructors.
Graded work will include visual art projects, written essays, tests, and participation.
Daily Grade/Participation: Every day, you will be given a daily grade which includes
attendance (being in class, being on time, and staying until the end), preparedness, studio
habits, clean-up, and participation in class critiques and discussions. On studio days,
participation grades are determined as follows:
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5 - No problems with any of the above
4 - 1 minor participation, punctuality, or supplies problem
3 - More substantial participation, punctuality, or supplies problem
2 - Unprepared OR 2 punctuality/participation problems OR failure to completely
clean up after yourself (a big mess can get you a D or F depending on the "mess
level") OR disruption (cell phone ringing, etc.)
1 - 2 or 3 preparedness/punctuality/participation/clean-up/disruption
problems.
0 - absent or any other combinations
Please note that the amount of class missed when arriving late or leaving early will be taken
into account. For example, if you are 90 minutes late, you have missed half the class, and
you will receive a maximum of half credit (2 points).
On Critique days, your daily grade includes participation in the critique (presentation of
completed work and discussion of other students work as well as the above).
Daily grades are averaged together and this average is worth two times the weight of an
ordinary project grade (200 points, see grading profile). At the end of the semester, the daily
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grades are averaged using a 5 point scale: 5=100%, 4=80%, 3=60%, 2=40%, 1=20%, 0=0.
To calculate your daily grade: your points /# of class days = your 5 point average. Your 5
point average X 20 = your % grade. Your % grade is counted twice
Instructional Materials:
There is no book required for this course.
There is an extensive list of supplies and materials required which can be found on the last
page of this document. We suggest that you separate the page and take it with you when you
shop for the materials.
HCC Policy Statement: Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)
Any student with a documented disability (e.g. physical, learning, psychiatric, vision, hearing, etc.)
who needs to arrange reasonable accommodations must contact the Disability Services Office at the
respective college at the beginning of each semester. Faculty is authorized to provide only
the accommodations requested by the Disability Support Services Office.
If you have any questions, please contact the Disability Counselor at your college, Dr. Becky Hauri
at 713-718-7909, or the District Disability Office at 713-718-5165.
To visit the ADA Web site, log on to www.hccs.edu,
Click Future Students
Scroll down the page and click on the words Disability Information. http://www.hccs.edu/hccs/futurestudents/disability-services
HCC Policy Statement: Academic Honesty
You are expected to be familiar with the College's Policy on Academic Honesty, found in the catalog
and student handbook. Students are responsible for conducting themselves with honor and integrity
in fulfilling course requirements. Penalties and/or disciplinary proceedings may be initiated by
College System officials against a student accused of scholastic dishonesty.
“Scholastic dishonesty” includes, but is not limited to, cheating on a test, plagiarism, and collusion.
Cheating on a test includes:
 Copying from another student’s test paper;
 Using materials during a test that are not authorized by the person giving the test;
 Collaborating with another student during a test without authority;
 Knowingly using, buying, selling, stealing, transporting, or soliciting in whole or part the
contents of a test that has not bee administered;
 Bribing another person to obtain a test that is to be administered.
Plagiarism means the appropriation of another’s work and the unacknowledged incorporation of that
work in one’s own written work offered for credit. This also applies to visual materials in studio
projects.
Collusion means the unauthorized collaboration with another person in preparing written work
offered for credit.
Violations: Possible punishments for academic dishonesty may include a grade of “0” or “F” on the
particular assignment, failure in the course, and/or recommendation for probation or dismissal from
the College System. A recommendation for suspension or expulsion will be referred to the College
Dean of Student Development for disciplinary disposition.
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Students who wish to appeal a grade penalty should notify the instructional supervisor within 30
working days of the incident. A standing committee appointed by the College Dean of Instruction
(Academic or Workforce) will convene to sustain, reduce, or reverse the grade penalty. The
committee will be composed of two students, two faculty members, and one instructional
administrator. A majority vote will decide the grade appeal and is final.
All projects for this class should be created by the student specifically for this assignment,
this semester. Work created for other classes or in previous semesters is not acceptable.
Official HCC Attendance Policy:
Students are expected to attend classes regularly. Students are responsible for material covered
during their absences, and it is the student’s responsibility to consult with instructors for makeup
assignments. Class attendance is checked daily by instructors.
Although it is the responsibility of the student to drop a course for non-attendance, the
instructor has the authority to drop a student for excessive absences.
A student may be dropped from a course for absenteeism after the student has accumulated
absences in excess of 12.5 percent of the hours of instruction (including lecture and laboratory
time).
For example:
For a three credit-hour lecture class meeting three hours per week (48 hours of instruction), a
student may be dropped after six hours of absences.
Administrative drops are at the discretion of the instructor. If you are doing poorly in the
class, but you have not contacted your professor to ask for help, and you have not withdrawn by
the official withdrawal date, it will result in you receiving a grade of “F” in the course
NOTE: LAST DAY FOR STUDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE DROP THIS SEMESTER:
Friday, November 2, 4:30 pm.
Due to the nature of a studio course, regular and punctual attendance is crucial to your
success. In accordance with school policy, I may drop student after12 hours/ 12 1/2% of
missed class (four absences, or equivalent time missed). Should this happen, it is your
responsibility to officially withdrawal from the course. Failure to do so may result in a grade
of "F." If you want to drop for any reason, you need to go through the motions for an official
withdraw!!!! This is HCCS policy. Students who miss all or part of a class are responsible for
making up work on their own and for being prepared for the next class. In case of serious
emergency, contact me. While I cannot compromise the integrity of the class, I will try to
work with you. Please understand that it may not be possible for you to pass the class if you
miss a lot of class time, regardless of the reason why.
Please DO NOT call me or the school to report an ordinary absence. Call a fellow
student to find out what you have missed and speak to me when you return to school. For
special circumstances (such as absence on a test day, a critique day, or circumstances
causing you to miss several classes in a row) it is appropriate to call or e-mail.
Course Withdrawals-First Time Freshmen Students-Fall 2007 and Later:
Effective 2007, section 51.907 of the Texas Education Code applies to first-time in college freshman
students who enroll in a Texas public institution of higher education in the fall semester of 2007 or
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thereafter. High school students currently enrolled in HCC Dual Credit and Early College are waived
from this requirement until they graduate from high school.
Based on this law, HCC or any other Texas Public institution of higher education may not
permit students to drop after the official day of record more than six college level credit
courses for unacceptable reasons during their entire undergraduate career.
Course Withdrawals:
Be sure you understand HCC policies about dropping a course. It is the student’s responsibility to
withdraw officially from a course and prevent an “F” from appearing on the transcript. If you feel that
you cannot complete this course, you will need to withdraw from the course prior to the final date of
withdrawal. Before, you withdraw from your course; please take the time to meet with the instructor
to discuss why you feel it is necessary to do so. The instructor may be able to provide you with
suggestions that would enable you to complete the course. Your success is very important
If you plan on withdrawing from your class, you MUST contact a HCC counselor or your professor
prior to withdrawing (dropping) the class for approval and this must be done PRIOR to the withdrawal
deadline to receive a “W” on your transcript. **Final withdrawal deadlines vary each semester and/or
depending on class length, please visit the online registration calendars, HCC schedule of classes
and catalog, any HCC Registration Office, or any HCC counselor to determine class withdrawal
deadlines. Remember to allow a 24-hour response time when communicating via email and/or
telephone with a professor and/or counselor. Do not submit a request to discuss withdrawal
options less than a day before the deadline. If you do not withdraw before the deadline, you will
receive the grade that you are making in the class as your final grade
Early Alert Program:
To help students avoid having to drop/withdraw from any class, HCC has instituted an Early Alert
process by which your professor may “alert” you and HCC counselors that you might fail a class
because of excessive absences and/or poor academic performance. It is your responsibility to visit
with your professor or a counselor to learn about what, if any, HCC interventions might be available
to assist you – online tutoring, child care, financial aid, job placement, etc. – to stay in class and
improve your academic performance.
Repeat Course Fee:
The State of Texas encourages students to complete college without having to repeat failed classes.
To increase student success, students who repeat the same course more than twice, are required to
pay extra tuition. The purpose of this extra tuition fee is to encourage students to pass their courses
and to graduate. Effective fall 2006, HCC will charge a higher tuition rate to students registering the
third or subsequent time for a course. If you are considering course withdrawal because you are not
earning passing grades, confer with your instructor/counselor as early as possible about your study
habits, reading and writing homework, test taking skills, attendance, course participation, and
opportunities for tutoring or other assistance that might be available.
Individual Instructor’s Requirements Statement
As your Instructor, it is my responsibility to:
 Provide the grading scale and detailed grading formula explaining how student grades are to be
derived
 Facilitate an effective learning environment through class studio activities, discussions, and
critiques
 Provide a clear description of any special projects or assignments
 Inform students of policies such as attendance, withdrawal, tardiness and make up work
 Provide the course outline and class calendar which will include a description of any special
projects or assignments
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
Arrange to meet with individual students before and after class as required
To be successful in this class, it is the student’s responsibility to:
 Attend class, be on time, and be prepared with the proper materials for each session.
 Use class studio time wisely by focusing on assigned projects
 Keep copies of all paperwork, including the syllabus, articles, and handouts.
 Respect the space and materials of other class members.
 Clean up thoroughly after each studio session
 Be prepared for critique sessions: have complete assignments ready for display and be prepared to
participate in the verbal critique process
Tardiness: I will take roll ten minutes after the scheduled start of class. Students who arrive
after roll is taken will be considered late. If you must arrive late, please join the class without
disrupting it. Also, please see me at the end of class to make sure I have marked you late
instead of absent. This is your responsibility - I will not change your attendance record after
the class period is over. Leaving early is treated the same as leaving late.
Disruptions: Adult behavior is expected, and disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. While I
expect and encourage you to participate in discussions, ask questions, and express
opinions, you should do so in an appropriate manner and at an appropriate time. Students
who interfere with my ability to teach the class or with fellow students' ability to learn will be
removed from class and/or will have their participation/daily work grade lowered. Depending
on the severity and/or frequency of such disruptions, such students may be administratively
withdrawn from the course without refund. PLEASE DO NOT BRING CELL PHONES TO
CLASS or TURN THEM OFF as they are disruptive! I will make exceptions to people "on
call" for work or for special home circumstances, but please tell me ahead of time.
Studio Clean-up Policy: At the end of each class, you are required to completely clean up
after yourself. This includes replacing any school equipment or supplies, cleaning your
workspace and table, throwing out your trash, storing your work and materials in the proper
place, etc. You are collectively responsible for maintaining the sink area. Please bring your
own soap and paper towels. Failure to clean up will affect your daily grade.
Dress Code: Since we are working with art supplies, the possibility always exists that you
will get dirty. Bring a smock/apron or dress accordingly. It is wise to tie back long hair as
well. If you remove your jewelry, please put it in your pocket, purse, or backpack so you
don’t forget it. I have no control over the temperature in the room (usually too cold or too
hot). Please dress in layers if you want to be comfortable.
Safety: While most of the materials required for this class are safe and non-toxic when used
properly, you do need to be careful and use common sense. Paints, solvents, adhesives and
fixatives can be toxic and should never be ingested, inhaled, or allowed to make contact with
an open wound. Products that are in aerosol form or that create fumes must be used
outside. Always exercise extreme caution when handling sharp knives and blades. When
cutting matt board, make sure the cutting board is entirely supported on the table. When
handling the staple gun, be sure you know which end the staple will be ejected from. Always
read any enclosed safety materials that come with your supplies. Also, be alert for allergic
reactions - they are unusual, but they do happen. If there are children in your home, be sure
to keep supplies and away from them unless you know they are safe, and you are
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supervising them. This also applies to pets. Finally, pregnant and nursing women should be
extremely careful with all chemical supplies, and should avoid exposure to cadmium, a
pigment often found in red and yellow paints. Choose non-toxic supplies whenever possible.
Guests/Children: Because of the less-structured climate of a studio class, people are often
tempted to bring "friends" with them to class. Please refrain from doing this, as it is a
distraction to you and to others. If you want to show others what you are doing, this can be
done before and after class. According to the HCCS Faculty Handbook: "The College
System does not allow children into the collegiate educational process. The campus is a
workplace, and while conviviality is encouraged, the purpose of our presence here is the
business of educating students; the purpose of students here is to be educated. The
presence of children is not appropriate to this situation." Occasionally, if there is room, we
allow art students from other classes to work quietly in the studio during class.
Disclaimer: This is a college course for adults. As such, students need to understand that
there may be information that they find disagreeable. Nudity and controversial subjects are
not uncommon in works of art. Also, religion has inspired countless art works, and will be
discussed to put the work in context. This is not meant to challenge or change your
personal beliefs.
HCC Art Discipline Requirements
. By the end of the semester the student who passes with a final grade of “C” or above will have
demonstrate the ability to:
 Complete and comprehend the objectives of all graded assignments
 Attend class regularly, missing no more than 12.5% of instruction (12 hours)
 Arrive at class promptly and with the required supplies for that day’s session
 Participate in the shared responsibilities for studio clean-up
 Exhibit safe studio habits
 Be prepared for and participate in class critiques
 Demonstrate the ability to communicate orally in clear, coherent, and persuasive language
 Demonstrate the ability to use computer-based technology in communicating, solving problems,
and acquiring information
 Complete a minimum of 1000 words in a combination of writing assignments and/or projects
 Demonstrate the ability to present works of exhibition quality
 Create a non-representational 2-D image exploring line
 Create a non-representational 2-D image exploring shape
 Create a non-representational 2-D image exploring value
 Create a non-representational 2-D image exploring texture
 Create a non-representational 2-D image combing line, texture, value, shape, and color
 Create a project exploring color theory
HCC Grading Information:
Grading percentile: the official HCC grading rubric is as follows:
90–100 percent
A
Exceptionally fine work; superior in presentation, visual observation,
comprehension and participation
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80–89 percent
70–79 percent
60–69 percent
Below 60
percent
B
C
D
F
Above average work; superior in one or two areas
Average work; good, unexceptional participation
Below average work; noticeably weak with minimal participation
Clearly deficient in presentation, style and content with a lack of
participation
The grade of "I" (Incomplete) is conditional. It will only be assigned if at least 80% of the course work
is complete .Students receiving an "I," must make an arrangement with the instructor in writing to
complete the course work within six months. After the deadline, the "I" becomes an "F." All "I"
designations must be changed to grades prior to graduation. Changed grades will appear on student
record as "I"/Grade (example: "I/A").
The grade of "W" (Withdrawal) appears on grade reports when students withdraw from a class by the
drop deadline. Instructors have the option of dropping students up to the deadline. After the deadline,
instructors do not have that option — not even when entering final grades.
Instructor Grading Criteria:
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Project grades are determined by:
Completion of assigned preparatory work, such as sketches, media experiments, gray
scales, color wheel, etc. (5% to 20% of your project grade).
Fulfillment of project goals and requirements; following project directions.
Cumulative use of the design elements and principles we have covered in class.
Craftsmanship; use of materials; sufficient time and effort spent on the project.
Ambitiousness applied in constructing the work.
Creativity and exploration of ideas, techniques, etc. within the bounds of the project.
Personal improvement.
Overall composition (design of the overall image).
Studio habits: being prepared, utilizing class time effectively, cleaning up after
yourself, participating in critiques, interacting with me and your peers.
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Test grades are determined by:
Percentage of correct answers. Questions may include definitions, true/false, multiple
choice, short answer, simple drawing, and labeling of images.
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Essay grades are determined by:
Fulfillment of project goals and requirements; following project directions.
Sufficient length.
Writing quality, including spelling and grammar
Content: accuracy and completeness of analysis; level of insight and creativity
Instructor’s Final Grading Legend:
Each instructor must identify the final course requirements specific to that course.
Grading Profile: These are the assignments, tests, and essays I expect that the class will
complete, along with their corresponding point values. This list is subject to change, and the
class will be told in advance of any such changes.
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9
2
2
1
Projects
Tests
Museum Essays
Participation
100 points each
100 points each
100 points each
200 points
900 points total
200 points total
200 points total
200 points
_______________
1500 points total
Your Grade (%) = your total points/1500
EGLS# - Evaluation for Greater Learning Student Survey System
At Houston Community College, professors believe that thoughtful student feedback is
necessary to improve teaching and learning. During a designated time, you will be asked to answer a
short online survey of research-based questions related to instruction. The anonymous results of the
survey will be made available to your professors and division chairs for continual improvement of
instruction. Look for the survey as part of the Houston Community College Student System online
near the end of the term.
DESIGN 1
SUPPLY LIST
You may need to replenish your supplies as you use them up, particularly the
illustration board, sharpie markers, and paint. I suggest Texas Art (2237 S. Voss Rd., 713780-0440 or 2001 Montrose, 713-526-5221) for your supplies. Call around for the best
prices.
Sketchbook - no smaller than 8 1/2" X 11" (can be informal and shared with
other art classes, but you need plain white paper)
White Hot Press Illustration Board - get several sheets to start with, you'll need
more as you use it up. Ask to have it wrapped.
Matte or Utility Knife - with clean, sharp, retractable blade and BIG handle.
Scissors and/or Xacto knife (with plastic cap)
Pencils - at least two for sketching – your #2 is fine, or ebony pencil
Erasers - Pink Pearl and/or white plastic/vinyl (sometimes called a soap eraser)
Black Sharpie Markers - fine (optional) and ultra-fine point (necessary)
Glue - Elmer’s is fine, or any white glue
Water Container (plastic)
Paint brushes - 2 acrylic, 2 soft bristle as per class discussion
12" Ruler
Tape - artist’s or masking
Stenciling material – clear or translucent mylar or plastic
Gouache or Plaka – black (large or 2 small) and white (1 small)
Acrylics - "Liquitex Basics" or individual tubes - black, white, red, yellow, blue (starter sets
usually also include green).
Plastic tray palette with 6 or more depressions
Paper towels and bar soap - I suggest Bounty and Ivory
Plastic Trash Bag (for transporting work and illustration board in bad weather)
Some means of carrying and protecting your supplies and projects, such as a
tackle box and cardboard portfolio or brown wrapping paper
Photograph of yourself that you can draw on or otherwise mess up. In this photograph,
your face should be reasonably large (your head should be at least 2" high). I suggest that
you avoid using an image with an open mouth or glasses. Also, the photograph should show
highlights and shadows on the face (avoid flash photos with that "ghost" look). We will be
using this for the value project, and you won't need it for 4 or 5 weeks. This should give you
plenty of time to find a photo or have one taken and developed.
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Optional supplies: Violet acrylic paint, Glue stick, Rubber cement, Notebook, Drafting
Compass (a universal adapter and extension arm are also great to have), Circle template,
Triangles (30-60-90, 45-45-90), Protractor (for constructing a color wheel), Rapidiographs,
Pens, Newsprint pad, Metal ruler or T-square (good, thick metal, at least 18"), Brushes in a
wider selection of sizes, Extra colors of paint or markers.
Note: You can put off buying your acrylics and acrylic brushes until we do color usually the 8th or 9th week - see the calendar.
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Hot Press Illustration Board Minimum Sizes (in inches):
Balance: Three panels, 8 ½ X 11 each
Unity: 16 X 16
Line: 9 X 12
Shape: 9 X 13
Value: 12 X 14
Note: beginning with color, you may choose to work on a canvas or a canvas
board instead of illustration board.
Color: Four panels, 10X10 each
Texture/Pattern: 9 X 12
Space/Motion: 9 X 12
Final Project: 10 X12
o Note: there is no maximum size – you can work larger.
o Later in the semester, you may want to substitute other surfaces for the
illustration board, such a canvas or canvas board.
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