Houston Community College Southwest
http://southwest.hccs.edu/departments/fine-arts/
Course Syllabus: Painting One
HCC Academic Discipline: ART
Course Title: Painting One
Course Rubric and number: ARTS 2316
Semester with Course Reference Number (CRN): Spring 2014, CRN 80322
Campus and Room Location with Days and Times: West Loop Campus, Room C235
Tuesday & Thursday
9:30 am – 12:30 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: 713-718-6913
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, T 12:30–2:00 pm., MW 9:30-10:30 am
Other times by appointment
Course Description:
1. ARTS 2316 Painting I: Exploration of ideas using painting media and techniques. As defined
in the Academic Course Guide Manual (AGCM) produced by the Texas Higher Education
Coordinating Board, 2009 (THECB)
2. ARTS 2316 Painting I: A studio course which explores painting media with an emphasis on
color, composition, subject matter and technique. Painting I is a prerequisite for Painting II.
This course satisfies the fine arts component of the HCC core. (As listed in the 2009-2011
HCC Catalog.)
Course Prerequisites: None
Course Goal:
This course presents students with the basic techniques and concepts that are common to various
painting media, with the emphasis placed on the acrylic medium. Students in Painting I will be
exposed to both contemporary and historical issues in the field of painting, both subjectively and
technically. This course will examine the interdependence of medium and image.
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Program Student Learning Outcomes:
1. Create an original work of art using the studio skills taught.
2. Identify the formal Elements and Principles of Design
3. Apply critical thinking when comparing works of art
4. Create an exhibition-quality, display-ready, work of art.
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)
Painting 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 formal elements.
1.3. Compare principles of design.
1.4. Contrast formal elements.
1.5. Contrast principles of design.
1.6. 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.)
1.7. Express sub-categories of all the formal elements.
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 course media. (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.
3.6. Write 1000 words in a combination of writing assignments such as critiques, essays,
research papers and/or journals.
3.7. Cultivate form and content in paintings.
3.8. Synthesize painting problems concerning:
 Completing a painting that is either abstract or nonobjective (or nonrepresentational)
 Incorporating a variety of techniques, supports and subjects during the semester
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Learning Outcome Four: Select and verify course media and techniques in completed projects.
(Level 6)
The supporting Learning Objectives
4.1. Summarize the formal elements.
4.2. Select principles of design
4.3. Critique the work of peers.
4.4. Self-critique artistic output.
4.5. Verify form and content
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:
Per specific Semester
Classes Begin
Monday, January 13
Official Day of Record
January 27
Holidays and Breaks
MLK Day – Monday, January 20
President’s Day – Mon. Feb. 17
Spring Break – March 10-16
Spring Holiday - April 18-20
Priority Deadline to file for graduation
Friday, February 14
Last day to drop classes with a grade of W Monday, March 31, 4:30 pm
Instruction ends
May 4 (May 1 for this class)
Final examination
May 5 – 11 (May 6, 9 am. for this class)
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CALENDAR
The following is a schedule of the material we will cover, the paintings you will
complete, the critique dates, the field trips, and the due dates for written work. It may be
necessary to make changes in this schedule (changing due dates, adding or deleting
assignments, etc.) depending on the pace at which the class progresses, the level at which
students are working, and/or the decision to include something different that might benefit
the class more than a scheduled activity. The field trip dates are tentative until our
reservation is confirmed by the museum.
January
February
March
April
14 - Introduction to class, materials discussion, Introduce Still
Life/Point of View Project.
16 - Value and light, black and white still life study. Canvas
stretching demonstration.
21 - Alla Prima, wash, underpainting, glazing, impasto, scumbling,
sgraffito; Continue still life study using the earth tone palette.
23 - Introduce Color Charts, discuss. Begin Full-color Still Life or
Point of View Painting.
28 - Compositional sketches due for Still Life/P.O.V, work on
painting
30 - Studio day
4"
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6 - Studio day: Discuss Field Trip Essay
11 - CRITIQUE: Earth tone Still Life and Full-color Still Life/Point of
View. Also DUE: Color Charts.
Introduce next paintings: Scale or Process Painting, Surrealism/Space
Painting, Technique Assignment
Discuss scale and proportion, texture, and surface.
13 – FIELD TRIP: Menil Museum: 11:00 am. to 1:00 pm
18 - Sketches due; begin painting
20 - Studio day.
25 – DUE: Menil Essay; Studio day
27 - FIELD TRIP: MFAH: 10:00 am
4 - Studio Day
6 – Studio Day
11 – NO CLASS – Spring Break
13 – NO CLASS _ Spring Break
18 - DUE: MFAH Essay; Studio day
20 - Studio Day
25 - CRITIQUE: Scale or Process, Surrealism/Space
Also DUE: Paint technique assignment
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Introduce Art History Painting, Old Master Study. and SelfPortrait.
27 - Studio day
1“
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3 - Studio day; SHOW PREP
8 - Studio day; SHOW PREP
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15 - “
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17 - “
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May
22 - “
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24 - “
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29 –
1 - Studio day 1st half of class, Studio clean-up second half.
Tuesday, May 6- FINAL CRITIQUE: 9:00 – 11:00 am.
Old Master study, Art History Painting and Self-Portrait.
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.
Painting I is a course that provides students with a solid foundation of painting
techniques, including glazing, underpainting, alla prima, and impasto. A working knowledge
of gesso, mediums, paint, tools, and a variety of supports will be explored. The fabrication
of stretchers and canvas stretching and priming will be demonstrated. Using appropriate
terminology, students of Painting I will learn to discuss their work, as well as that of their
peers. A wide variety of subjects will be explore
This course presents students with the basic techniques and concepts that are
common to various painting media, with the emphasis placed on the acrylic medium.
Students in Painting I will be exposed to both contemporary and historical issues in the field
of painting, both subjectively and technically. This course will examine the interdependence
of medium and image.
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.
Painting 1 is a studio course,meaning it is primarily concerned with the creation of
works of art. Therefore, much of our class time will be spent planning and executing works
of art. Projects will progress from being highly structured to being more personally
expressive. Instruction will include lectures and demonstrations as well as one-to-one
interaction with the instructor. Peer interaction is also important. In addition to studio work,
students will have two field trips, do written assignments, and participate in critiques.
Students will also show their work in the student art exhibit. Videos and slides may be
shown. While no quizzes or tests are planned, they may be given if the students seem to be
having problems absorbing information.
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A. Studio Work - Studio assignments will consist of the following:
1. Major Assignments (including preparatory work)
2. 1 Day Paintings or Studies
3. Exercises such as the color chart, media experiments, etc.
Studio projects are designed to give the student experience in painting. Generally,
they will focus on a couple of major concepts, techniques, etc., but the knowledge gained is
cumulative, so the overall quality of work should improve as the class progresses.
NOTE: Please prepare your painting supports at home or before/after class. Waiting
for your gesso to dry is not an effective use of class time. It is acceptable to prepare
supports in class IF you have another support prepared to work on while the first is drying.
B. Field Trip
The fine arts department believes that exposure to great works of art is essential if
one is to fully appreciate them. Painting students have much to learn from great art of the
past. There is no form of reproduction that can accurately show a paintings surface, color,
and scale. Therefore, students must look at actual works of art as part of their studio class.
You will take a field trip to the Menil Collection and to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.
Related to each field trip, you will turn in a written assignment (typed, 500 words, see below)
on a specified topic. Unfortunately, for some classes, the museums open later than we begin
class, and the field trips can not correspond exactly with class time. Students should make
every effort to attend field trips with the class. If this is impossible, a student can fulfill the
assignment by going to the museum on her/his own, at a more convenient time. The student
is still responsible for handing in written work on time. Attendance credit on field trip days is
given when I am convinced by your written work that you went to the museum.
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Field trips:
Menil – Thursday, February 13, 11:00 am
MFAH – Thursday, February 27
C. Written assignment
Field Trip Essays - 500 words each, minimum
There is a minimum writing requirement for this class of 1000 words if a student is to
earn a grade of “C” or better. This will be in the form of two written assignment related to the
field trips. This will be discussed fully in a separate handout. Late written assignments are
treated the same as late visual projects: they drop by 1/2 letter grade (5 points) for each
period missed, and receive a zero after three missed periods.
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Essays Due:
Menil – Feb 25
MFAH – March 18
D. Critiques
Critiques are class discussions about the effectiveness of completed paintings, and
you are required to participate. Each student will present his/her own work, and the class will
evaluate the work presented. 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 clarify your artistic ideas and to
communicate intelligently. Feedback from me and from your peers will give you suggestions,
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ideas, and inspiration. Also, the comments made by and about other works of art will point
you in new directions. Please keep criticism constructive. Students should not work on their
paintings during the critique.
STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO BE PRESENT FOR CRITIQUES!!!
E. Student Exhibition
All students are expected to prepare one of their paintings for exhibition and to
participate in the student show. We will spend some class time on this, but ultimately, each
student is responsible for properly preparing the piece for hanging, completing the required
paperwork, delivering work to the show and collecting the work after the show closes.
Exhibition Schedule:
 Faculty Exhibition – Feb 20 – March 20 – Fine Arts Center, Stafford. Reception
Thursday, Feb 20, 6-8 pm.
Level 1 Student Exhibition – April 17 – May 1 – Fine Arts Center, Stafford. Reception
Thursday, April 17, 6-8 pm.
 Level 2 Student Exhibition at West Loop - April 24 – May 23 - West Loop
Gallery. Reception Thursday, April 24, 6-8 pm.
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 paintings and studies, written work, and participation
Daily Grade/Participation
Students will receive a daily work/participation grade every class. This grade will take
into account class participation, studio habits, preparedness, attendance, punctuality (being
in class, being on time, and staying until the end), clean-up, and effective use of time. At the
end of the semester, the Daily Grades will be averaged (using a 5 point scale) to arrive at
one grade that is worth 1 1/2 times the weight of a major project grade (150 points).
The daily work grade will be determined as follows:
 5 (100%) - No problems with punctuality, participation, or supplies.
 4 (80%) - 1 minor punctuality, participation or supplies problem.
 3 (60%) -more substantial participation, punctuality or supplies problem.
 2 (40%) - unprepared OR 2 punctuality/participation problems OR failure to
completely clean up after yourself (neglecting clean-up can also get you a D or F
depending on the "mess level") OR disruption (cell phone ringing, etc.)
 1 (20%) - 2 or 3 preparedness/punctuality/participation/clean-up/disruption problems.
 0 - absent or any other combinations.
On critique days, your daily grade includes participation in the critique (presentation of
completed work and discussion of other student’s work as well as the above). To calculate
your daily grade: your points/# of class days = your 5 point average. Your 5 point average X
20 = your % grade. Your % grade X 1.5 = your numerical grade out of 150.
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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 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.
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.
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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:
Monday, March 31, 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 a student after 12 hours 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 DO NOT call 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 critique day or circumstances causing you to miss
several classes in a row) it is appropriate to call.
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
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
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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
 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
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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.
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
demonstrated the ability to:
 Complete and comprehend the objectives of all graded assignments
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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
Complete a painting that uses light as the expressive element
Complete a painting that uses color as the expressive element
Complete a painting that is either abstract or nonrepresentational
Incorporate a variety of techniques, supports, and subjects during the semester
HCC Grading Information:
Grading percentile: the official HCC grading rubric is as follows:
90–100 percent
A
80–89 percent
70–79 percent
60–69 percent
Below 60
percent
B
C
D
F
Exceptionally fine work; superior in presentation, visual observation,
comprehension and participation
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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Studio Project Grades are determined by:
Timely completion of any assigned preparatory work, such as making sketches,
doing color charts and media experiments, taking photos, doing exercises, and
gathering visual information (up to 10% of the project grade; some 1 day projects
do not require prep. work).
Fulfillment of the project goals and requirements; following project
directions.
Technique, craftsmanship, and sufficient time spent on the project.
Ambitiousness of effort and time spent on the piece.
Compositional effectiveness or design.
Creativity and exploration of subject, materials, techniques, etc.;
Uniqueness of solution within the bounds of the project.
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Cumulative demonstration of skills.
Personal improvement.
Being completed and turned in by the specified date.
Studio Habits: being prepared, utilizing class time effectively, cleaning up
after yourself, participation in critiques, interaction with me and your peers, etc.
Not all of the above criteria apply to each project, and different projects stress different
qualities. Projects are due at the beginning of class on the day of the critique. Late projects
drop by 1/2 letter grade for each period they are late (measured from the beginning of class),
and may receive a grade of zero after three missed periods.
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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:
Your grade is based on the average obtained from studio work, written work, your
sketchbook, and daily work grades. Any additional assignments will be averaged in.
Assignments that I cancel will be taken out of the averaging system. The following list details
the projects I expect to complete and their corresponding point values. This list is subject to
change!
2
studies
50 points each
100 points total
1
technique chart
50 points
50 points total
1
color chart
100 points each
100 points total
5
major paintings
100 points each
500 points total
2
written assignments 50 points each
100 points total
1
participation
150 points
150 points total
____________
1000 points total
Your Grade (%) = your total points/1000
Late or unfinished studio projects and written assignments drop by 1/2 of a letter
grade for each missed period (as measured from the beginning of class). After 3 missed
periods, the grade becomes a zero unless you have made special arrangements with me.
EGLS# - Evaluation for Greater Learning Student Survey System
http://www.hccs.edu/district/students/egls3/
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.
Please go to next page for Student Supply List
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SUPPLIES LIST
The following is a list of "starter" supplies. You may need to replenish supplies as you use
them up. I suggest shopping at Texas Art. Call around for the best prices.
ACRYLIC PAINTS (Large tubes are more economical and hues are perfectly acceptable,
less expensive versions of some colors)
Titanium White - You will use several large tubes over the course
of the semester. (zinc white ok)
Ivory Black - Buy a small tube. (mars black ok)
Yellow Oxide/Yellow Ochre /Iron Oxide
Burnt Sienna
Payne’s Gray
Cadmium Red Light
Ultra-Marine Blue
Cadmium Yellow Medium
Cerulean Blue
Napthol Crimson or Alizarin Crimson
Burnt Umber
Pthalo Green, Viridian, or Hookers Green
Later, you may want to try: Cobalt Blue, Cadmiums (Yellow light or deep, Orange,
Cadmium red medium or deep, Napthol Red, Pthalo Blue, Manganese Violet, dioxazine
purple, raw sienna, raw umber, chromium oxide/green earth hue, and Mars Black. You may
also want to try paint additives such as modeling paste, gel medium, matte medium,
retarder/slow dry medium, sand, etc.
You also need:
Brushes (at least 3, as per class discussion)
Acrylic liquid gloss medium (optional) Gesso
Masking tape or artist's tape
Trowel-shaped palette knife
Disposable paper palettes
Bounty paper towels
Plastic Water Container
Ivory soap
Sketchbook (at least 8 1/2" X 11")
Box or bag to carry supplies
Supplies to prepare a painting for exhibition - probably two screw eyes
and some picture framing wire
Painting supports (as per class discussion) - canvas board, stretched canvas,
gessoed masonite or plywood, illustration board, etc. Each painting will require a support.
Some will be specific supports in specific sizes, others you will choose. You must always
bring a spare support to class. I suggest keeping a canvas panel in the trunk of your car for
the duration of the semester. Also, your support should be ready to work on. Prepare them
at home, before/after class or have another support to work on while your gesso dries.
Support for next class: Canvas board, no smaller than 12" on a side.
Other supplies for next class: black and white paint, paint brushes,
disposable palettes, water container, soap, paper towels.
Needed by following class: 4 stretcher strips (size: between 16" and 24"), unprimed
canvas, and gesso. Also paint (Payne’s gray, yellow ochre, burnt sienna) and palette knife.
Burnt umber would be good to have as well.
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Painting Supports – requirements for the semester’s projects:
Note: while the minimum dimensions often describe a square, most students prefer to
work in a rectangle, adding length in one direction. You can always work larger than the
stated size.
 Still Life #1 – canvas board or stretched canvas with a minimum dimension of 12” X
14”
 Still Life #2 or P.O.V. – canvas that you stretch yourself with a minimum Dimension of
16” X 16” (You will need 4 stretcher strips, unprimed canvas, and gesso)
 Color Charts – 3 canvas boards, illustration boards, or pieces of gessoed cardboard
measuring approximately 11” X 14” (the charts themselves will be 10” X 12” and
should have a white border around them). Students have also used one long strip of
gessoed canvas for all three which they can roll up.
 Paint Technique Assignment: 2 canvas boards, measuring approximately 11 X 14
 Scale or Process – stretched canvas 36” X 36” or larger. If you stretch your own, use
heavy weight stretchers and/or bracing.
 Surrealism – stretched canvas, minimum dimension of 24” X 24”
 Old Master Study – stretched canvas or canvas board with a minimum dimension of
12” X 14”
 Art History Painting – stretched canvas, minimum dimension of 18” X 18”
 Self Portrait – Traditional: stretched canvas, minimum dimension of 18” X 20” -orSymbolic: stretched canvas, minimum dimension of 24” X 24”
Art Supplies
Texas Art
 2237 Voss77057 (713) 780-0440
 2001 Montrose, 77006 (713) 526-5221
Art Supply – 2711 Main Street, 77002 (713) 652-4984
Jerry’s Artarama – 12974 Willow Chase Drive, 77070 (832) 237-6070
Aaron Brothers
 11803 Westheimer, 77077 (713) 490-7300
 3057 W. Holcombe Blvd. 77025 (713) 664-2395
Michaels or Hobby Lobby
Hardware stores (Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ace) and places like Wal-Mart or Target will have
things like tape, scissors, framing wire, screw eyes, soap, paper towels, supply boxes…
For supplies you are ordering WELL IN ADVANCE of when you’ll be needing them (extra
white paint, additional brushes, extra colors, stretchers and canvas for pieces in the latter
part of the semester, etc) you may get better deals at Utrecht (www.utrechtart.com) or Pearl
(www.pearlpaint.com). Please note that waiting for supplies to be delivered in the mail is
NOT an excuse for not having what you need, when you need it. This option is really for
students who plan way ahead, not procrastinators.
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