School of Art, Design and Art History
San Diego State University
Three Dimensional Design
Fall 2013
ARTN 106 T/TH 12:30-3:10
Seth Papac
Email – spapac@mail.sdsu.edu
Office # 406 hours – T/TH 11-12pm
Art 103 Design II Schedule # 20151
OFFICIAL COURSE CATALOG DESCRIPTION
Introduction and investigation of design and theory, and practice in three dimensions.
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course will introduce you to the concepts, applications and historical references related to
three-dimensional form in visual art and design. We will explore the expressive potential and
conceptual possibilities of three-dimensional forms through lecture, image presentations, written
assignments and studio projects using a variety of tools, materials and techniques.
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES AND OBJECTIVES
Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to:
o Demonstrate a working knowledge and understanding of the basic elements of three
dimensional art and design including point, plane, volume, mass, space, line, light, color,
texture and the organizing principles of repetition, emphasis, balance, economy, variety
and proportion
o Demonstrate an understanding of three dimensional visual thinking as distinguished from
two dimensional design.
o Independently produce problem solving projects that successfully incorporate the basic
concepts of three dimensional design.
o Make individual and aesthetic decisions and judgments related to their own artwork.
o Effectively use a variety of three dimensional techniques and tools.
o Demonstrate skills in additive, subtractive and modeling methods to generate geometric
and organic three dimensional forms
o Discuss and write a critical evaluation of three dimensional art, using the appropriate
vocabulary and terminology.
o Discuss, critique and evaluate their own three dimensional forms, as well as those of
others.
o Examine, compare and analyze historical and contemporary examples of three
dimensional art and design within a global context
GRADING
Creative activity requires thought, research, and planning to develop ideas and solutions, PLUS
disciplined time to master technical skills. Expect to spend a minimum of six hours a week
working outside of class. This is a six hour lab, which is designed to allow for sustained focus on
your work with an instructor present for consultation. Please take advantage of this concentrated
studio time; prepare questions in advance of class time, so that the instructor can be the most
helpful to you. Do not be misled by the term “work session” - there is a lot of essential
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information exchanged in a work session. Each project will be graded on specific criteria
established when it is assigned. Projects which are submitted on time with all criteria met will
meet the expectation of an average grade. Projects which illustrate creative, thoughtful and
rigorous investigation, an interesting concept, quality craftsmanship, original resolution and a
supportive portfolio are necessary in achieving a higher grade. Additional time, effort, and
enthusiasm both in and out of class are necessary for an above average grade. Students who
listen, ask questions, work hard, take risks, explore concepts and media, and actively engage in
constructive criticism and the exchange of ideas will benefit the most from this class, and earn an
above average grade. Late projects or incomplete projects will receive reduced grades. Late
assignments will be reduced by one grade for each class day that it is late. Work created entirely
outside of class will not be accepted for a grade. It will not be discussed at the review or receive
any points. Only finished work will be discussed at the review (finished at the beginning of the
class). Professional preparedness (effort, participation, and presentation) also affects your grade.
Conduct in the studio (clean-up and safety) will also affect your grade.
Studio Assignments - There will be 4 multi-part projects assigned throughout the semester.
Each project will focus on particular design elements and principles that will progressively build
on one another – allowing for the knowledge and experience necessary for developing threedimensional forms and compositions. We will discuss and actively investigate, through
demonstrations when appropriate, each design element and principle as well as the objective of
each assignment. Work that is complete, on time, which demonstrates an understanding and
application of the investigated design elements and principles, demonstrates an effort to illustrate
quality craftsmanship as well as illustrates a unique and personal approach is the only work with
the potential to earn an A. All late work will be reduced by one grade per class period after the
due date.
Written Assignments - You will write a research paper as well as make a short presentation on
a three-dimensional artist or designer. You will also visit a three-dimensional art exhibition and
write a review. You will receive more specific information on separate handouts.
Portfolio – For the first day of class you must print out all handouts(schedule, syllabus, readings,
project descriptions…) and place them in plastic sheet protectors in an 8.5x11” portfolio. For the
Linear Rhythm and Surface Transition Projects it is expected that you will thoughtfully develop your
ideas and designs and present them with your finished project. Evidence of linear development and
progress is helpful for you to fully understand and appreciate your creative endeavors. It is required
that you not only keep a proper sketch book but that you keep track of all sources (visual/text) that
are used in the early stages of each project. You will be required to hand in a folio that contains
sketches, drawings, relevant notations / research and a typewritten reflective statement. Use a
8.5x11” portfolio. All materials must be placed in plastic sheet protectors. Materials to be reviewed
must be easily visible. NOTE: Folios not presented according to specifications will not be reviewed
for a grade until they comply, they will be deemed late until properly completed and turned in.
Sketches, drawings, models, and notation - In this portion you will neatly present all of your
design work. Everything made and used in your design process, even the unsuccessful or unused
ideas, should be included as it illustrates the whole design process. All design material should be
presented in sequential order.
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Research- Every project will require you to research the subjects that are relevant to your
understanding and development of the intended work. The research portion should include both
visuals and photocopied readings (if appropriate) that were important to your rendering of the
assignment. If lengthy reading was required highlight the most influential parts. I will be reading any
information provided and am not interested in material used for padding the folio.
Please remember that the folio is a large part of every grade and should be taken seriously and put
together correctly. All required information should be neatly presented.
Sketchbook - You are required to maintain a sketchbook during the extent of this class. Your
sketchbook should be used for visual and technical notes relating to the course content. Much of
the information gathered here will support documentation required in your project portfolios.
You will present all project proposals to me using your sketchbook so it should illustrate an
exhaustive and broad inquiry into the given concept/project.
Participation - Attendance is essential. Each project will be presented with slide lectures,
written directions, and technical demonstrations. Students are responsible for all information
presented. Punctuality is also critical and will be reflected in your daily participation points. If
you are absent for a class you will not receive any participation points for that day – regardless of
circumstances. Attendance is taken at the beginning of each class and you are expected to be
present for the entire class. I always expect your best efforts and thoughtful solutions. Focus,
planning, and long hours both in and outside of class are a given in creative activity, but the
rewards are worth the effort! There will be assigned due dates for samples, design + research,
and projects. On project due dates there will be a group critique in which all students are required
to participate by: (1) Presenting their finished project and discussing it, (2) submitting a portfolio
when appropriate. Attendance at critiques is mandatory. I expect everyone to be engaged,
attentive, critical and supportive in group critiques. If you miss a class, you are responsible for
obtaining all information covered during that class and to arrive prepared for the next class. You
are advised to exchange telephone numbers with individuals in class to obtain information.
Clean-up: 5-10 minutes before the end of class, return all tools to their proper place. Sweep up
debris and scraps from your work area. Studio use is a privilege. Respect the studio facilities and
community.
SDSU Grade Definitions
A-outstanding achievement, available only to the highest accomplishment
B-praiseworthy performance, above average
C-average, satisfactory performance. Most common grade
D-minimally passing
F-failing
Your grade will be based on the following point structure:
Volume Compositions
Rectilinear Volume DUE Sep. 17
relationship of volumes 5pts, proportion 5pts,
static axes 5pts, craftsmanship pts
positive/negative space 5pts, visual balance 5pts, proportion 5pts,
craftsmanship 5pts
Curvilinear Volume DUE Sep. 17
Combination Volumes DUE Sep. 24
group movement 5pts, visual balance 5pts, proportion 5pts,
craftsmanship 5pts
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Planar Construction
DUE Oct. 15
Linear Rhythm
DUE Nov. 7
Surface Transition
DUE Dec. 10
Artist Research Paper and Presentation
DUE Oct. 17
Group movement/directing the viewer
complimentary contrast in types of planes and proportion
harmony between the edges of the planes and their axes
visual balance
space as position
craftsmanship
20pts
15pts
15pts
10pts
10pts
10pts
repetition
rhythm
proportion, visual balance, positive/negative space
craftsmanship/portfolio
20pts
20pts
20pts
20pts
transition
pattern/texture
proportion, visual balance, positive/negative space
craftsmanship/portfolio
40pts
20pts
20pts
20pts
paper(quality/depth of research, use of class vocabulary)
presentation
15pts
5pts
use of class vocabulary in evaluating and reflecting on
physically encountered work 20pts
Class participation and preparedness x 10 weeks 100pts
Exhibition Review DUE Dec. 3
Participation
REQUIRED READINGS, MATERIALS AND TOOLS
Required Readings – There will be required readings for some of the projects which will
provide vital information about specific 3-dimensional design elements, principles and
techniques related to those projects. These readings will be available for download on
Blackboard.
Materials/Tools – Each project will require different tools and materials which you must bring
on the due date as noted in the class schedule. Most of these can be found at the hardware store,
craft stores like Michael’s and art supply stores.
Sketchbook
Portfolio
Exacto knife and extra blades
Cutting matte
Glue gun and extra glue sticks
Masking tape
Needle nose pliers
Flat nose pliers
Wire snips
2-90 degree triangular rulers
36” Ruler/straight edge
Cerated knife
Sand paper
White Paint
Chalk
Cardboard
Bristol/Crescent board
16 gauge galvanized wire or other heavy gauge wire
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Carvable floral foam (soft green foam which can be found at Michael’s)
Elmer’s glue
Roll of tracing paper
Drawing implements
Dust mask
Heavy duty gloves
Additional materials and tools may be needed ……
CLASSROOM POLICY AND STUDIO CARE
o This room is a community workspace. Studio work will always stop ten minutes before
the end of the class for group cleanup and returning tools to proper place.
o Claim a locker to securely store tools and materials. SDSU is not responsible for theft.
o You may work in the studio during posted studio times as long as no other class is in
progress.
o Appropriate footwear and attire must be worn at all times – NO OPEN TOED SHOES.
o Cell phones must be turned to silent and not used during class. NO TEXTING.
BLACKBOARD
This course has a Blackboard site where you will find copies of the syllabus, schedule,
assignments, other course documents, as well as announcements, project grades and reminders
throughout the semester. You can access Blackboard through the SDSU home page, Current
Students link. Please make certain that your email address is current with SDSU in order to make
the use of this resource successful. You can update your contact information through Web
Portal.
STANDARDS OF CONDUCT
All projects assigned, unless otherwise expressly stated, are individual assignments to be
completed entirely by each student; doing otherwise is considered academic dishonesty,
misconduct, or plagiarism and is subject to disciplinary action. This policy applies specifically
to the physical completion of projects and writings; meaningful dialogue on assignments is
encouraged between students.
For questions regarding this policy, as well as other issues of conduct, please refer to the SDSU
Center for Student Rights and Responsibilities:
http://www.sa.sdsu.edu/srr/index.html
ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE
It is the policy of this instructor and the University to make the learning environment as
comfortable as possible for each student. Any student with a learning or physical disability
should contact the Disabled Student Services Office for details to see if you may be entitled to
appropriate academic accommodations:
(619) 594-6473 or (619) 594-2929 (TDD/TTY) http://www.sa.sdsu.edu/sds/get4.html
If you qualify for these services, please inform your instructor as soon as you are approved.
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