Instructor: Lynne Berman
Art 31A- Two- Dimensional Design
Section 0135
MW 3:45- 6:55
Office: CA312
Office hours: 7:15-7:45 9/10, 9/24, 10/8, 10/22, 11/5, 11/19,11/26
Email: Liberman@pasadena.edu
CATALOG DESCRIPTION
Beginning foundation course in design theory; applications to problems involving study
and interpretation of natural and human-made objects.
Course Overview
This class is an introduction to the elements and structures of two-dimensional design,
or visual elements put together on the flat plane. Design can be considered the
organization, construction, and manipulation of the visual world. In our everyday
perceptions we encounter a vast array of visual information. We respond to forms of
visual communication in a variety of ways, both consciously and unconsciously. Light
and dark, the physical properties of shape, their arrangement within a space, color, and
texture contribute through our senses, intellect, and emotions to how we see and
interpret the world around us. The function of design is to control and determine the
viewer’s attention with the aim of creating a specific experience.
When we see, we do many things at once. In looking at a created design we break it
down, analyzing what is seen through the visual tools used to construct it.
Understanding the basic working of design provides a basis for being able to focus
content, information, and expression intentionally for a specific effect. This knowledge
also teaches us how to be conscious of the visual operations at work in the world we live
in.
Students will not only learn how the visual language is communicated, but how to
manipulate the tools to create intentional effects progresses through her or his
individual path in the arts. Projects will consist of visual problems solved with creatively
based on the elements of design listed below. In the class, we learn structures of design
and the use of common tools and media that can create a range of expressions. The
visual arts are not a mechanical process. They involve subjective interpretation,
creative analysis, and personal vision and so this course will emphasize individual
process alongside of technical skill building. The process that happens in the making of
a visual work can be considered a kind of play or experimentation. There are no
textbook answers to this kind of knowledge. To gain proficiency and expertise comes
from an integration of intellect and intuition that involves personal exploration and a
sense of discovery that can be unique for each individual. The tools and ideas learned
are intended to be applied in inventive and subjective ways.
This course will provide a solid footing for your future visual arts courses. You will use a
variety of common tools and media found in the design and art field as well as learn to
evaluate compositions and designs through the critique process. Visual references will
be provided in the form of lectures and example material. There will be written
assignments pertaining to analysis of design work as well.
The building blocks of two-dimensional design
Composition, Line, Shape, Form, Value, Texture, Scale, Proportion, Color, Space,
Figure and Ground, Negative and Positive Space, Rhythm and Pattern, Balance,
Unity etc…
Course Syllabus: provides a guideline to the course but is subject to change and
fluctuation. It is imperative to be in class to follow the course project as assignments
might be adjusted throughout the semester. Students will be sufficiently notified in
class regarding any changes. Any changes will be posted on canvas and thoroughly
explained in class. THE INSTRUCTOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY THE
COURSE CONTENT (GRADING PROCEDURES, TESTS, ETC.) AS THE SITUATION
DICTATES. THE INSTRUCTOR WILL INFORM THE STUDENTS OF ANY SUCH
CHANGES VIA E-MAIL AND/OR CLASS ANNOUNCEMENTS.
COURSE OVERVIEW
This is a beginning foundation course in design theory that explores the visual problems
involving the study and interpretation of natural and man-made objects. You will be
using the elements of design including: line, shape, value, color, and texture. In
addition, the principles of design such as: space division, balance, unity, and emphasis
will be covered. Through a variety of projects and exercises, you will learn to use a
range of commonly used media and techniques in your study of design and
composition. All projects will require problem solving along with craftsmanship in
execution.
SLO’S (STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES)
RUBRICS (ASSESSMENTS)
SLO #1: Identify the formal elements and principles of Art and Design and investigate
their role in two-dimensional compositions.
0=Inadequate: Work shows little or no comprehension of the elements and principles
of design in the composition.
1=Beginning: Work shows a poor understanding of the elements and principles in the
composition.
2=Adequate: Work shows an average understanding of the elements and principles
in the composition.
3=Proficient: Work shows a very good grasp of the elements and principles of design in
the composition.
4=Mastery: Work shows an excellence and sophistication in the use of the elements
and principles of design and how these relate to all strong compositions.
SLO #2: Create and construct original two-dimensional designs, using professional
tools and materials.
0=Inadequate: Work is incomplete, missing or exhibits little effort to acquire
skill/control in manipulation of media using professional tools and
materials.
1=Beginning:
Work exhibits weak or inconsistent skill/control in manipulation of
media using professional tools and media.
2=Adequate:
Work exhibits adequate skill/control in manipulation of media using
professional tools and media.
3=Proficient: Work exhibits proficient skill/control in manipulation of media using
professional tools and media.
4=Mastery: Work exhibits great skill/control in manipulation of media using
professional tools and media.
SLO #3: Analyze and evaluate, orally and in writing, two-dimensional compositions
utilizing the critique process.
0=Inadequate: Student is unavailable or exhibits little effort in any critique process.
1=Beginning:
Student shows an incomplete or poorly executed aesthetic analysis in
written or verbal presentations.
2=Adequate:
Student shows an average aesthetic analysis in written or verbal
presentations.
3=Proficient: Student shows a strong aesthetic analysis in written or verbal
presentations.
4=Mastery: Student shows a mature and thorough aesthetic analysis of their work as
well as their peers utilizing written and verbal critique processes.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
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No excessive or loud talking allowed in class.
Follow published arrival and dismissal times.
Be prepared by bringing all supplies, materials, and references.
Be professional by meeting all deadlines for sketches and finished art.
Use instructor office hours for additional assistance.
Follow deadlines for adds/drops.
Return your signed questionnaire by the 2nd class session.
Follow college guidelines as stated from the school catalog, page 50.
Notify instructor of absence by email.
“Each student should be thoroughly familiar with the Standards of Student
Conduct and with regulations of the College. Students attending the College are
expected to maintain satisfactory standards of citizenship at all times on the
campus and in the community. Satisfactory citizenship includes conduct which
respects the rights of all individuals, which avoids actions disruptive to the ongoing
education program and which does not violate specific prohibitions outlined in the
Education Code.
When it is indicated that citizenship is unsatisfactory, the student may be subject to
the following: reprimand, disciplinary probation, administrative class withdrawal,
suspension or expulsion, as conditions warrant. Unsatisfactory citizenship includes,
among other things, cheating, plagiarism, hazing and conduct disruptive to the
teaching-learning process. In addition, falsification of information provided to the
Admissions Office is basis for dismissal from a class or from the College. Individuals
engaged in destructive activities involving any kind of physical or psychological
mistreatment of students are subject to prosecution under the California State Law
banning hazing and to dismissal from the College. Penalties for individuals,
organizations and institutions can be severe.”
GRADING POLICY
1. Grades will be based upon the SLOs and their assessments.
2. Each project, sketchbook, and notebook will receive a grade based on their
assessments.
3. All assessments will be added and then averaged to determine a grade by midterms
and finals.
4. Sketches are open to assessment.
5. Late submissions will be marked down 1 letter grade.
6. Forgetting to bring proper supplies will affect your grade.
7. Exercises and their notebook will be assessed.
8. Assessments may be adjusted if a project is reworked and demonstrates
improvement.
9. All absences and tardies will be counted regardless of their reasons.
10. 4 absences equal a drop from the class or an F. This is stated in the school catalog,
page 25.
11. 3 tardies equals 1 absence (and a letter drop in grade). This is in the school catalog,
page 25.
12. The teacher is the final authority on assignment of grades. This is in the school
catalog, page 50.
PROJECTS, EXERCISES, AND HOMEWORK
Projects include class and home assignments. This is considered a lab class so it is
mandatory that you are present working in class on projects and exercises, not studying
for other courses, texting everyone in your contacts or inventing a cure for cancer (If
your design projects aid in your discovery for a cure, bravo!!!, but save it until class is
over). Home assignments are done at home and are considered homework. All
projects will be displayed and critiqued in class.
2-d Syllabus
The first classes will focus on composition, line, alignment, emphasis, movement and
structure
Class One – 8/25
Introduction and Materials List
Lecture and discussion of various visual principles
Home Assignment- Get materials! For those on limited budgets, we can pace the
materials as needed throughout the semester. Please review what is necessary for
projects ahead of time to make sure you have the basics.
Class Two – 8/27
1. Exercise: Line Quality- Weight, Value, Shape, Texture
2. Exercises- Thumbnail Sketches: Horizontal and Vertical Lines, Gray scale
Project 1: Line- Horizontals (H) and Verticals (V) – 4 designs set in compositions
Materials: pencils (#HB, 2H, 2, 4, 6) erasers, blending stumps, tape, ruler, triangle, (2)
½ sheets 18/24 bristol paper
Using Horizontal Lines Composition Insets onto a rectangular plane
A. 1.Emphasis- Center 2. Line Quality 3. 5 or more horizontal lines
B. 1. Emphasis- Top 2. Line Quality 3. 5 or more horizontal lines
C. 1. Emphasis- Bottom 2. Line Quality 3. 5 or more horizontal lines
D. Composition of your choice combining all horizontals and verticals and line quality,
center balanced composition
Due -9/3
Monday Sept 1st Labor Day Holiday
Class Three -9/3
Critque H &V
Project 2: 4 images set in composition- with line quality as used in Project 1
Using Vertical Lines
A. 1.Emphasis- Center 2. Line Quality 3. 5 or more horizontal lines
B. 1. Emphasis- Top 2. Line Quality 3. 5 or more horizontal lines
C. 1. Emphasis- Bottom 2. Line Quality 3. 5 or more horizontal lines
D. Composition of your choice combining all horizontals and verticals and line
quality, asymmetrical composition
Due: 9/8 and prepare ½ sheet for next class
Class Four – 9/8
Critique Verticals
Project 3: Diagonal Lines-and Curved Lines- Incorporate line quality: value, weight,
texture and shape
A. Use diagonal line design- centered focal point
B. Use diagonal line design –asymmetrical focal point- identify focal point
C. Curved lines- centered focal point
D. Curved lines-asymmetrical focal point-identify focal point
Due: 9/10
Class Five – 9/10
Project 4: (2) 8 x 10 rectangles inset in ½ sheet
Materials- pencils etc...
2 designs combining H/V/D/C lines.
A. One symmetrical, one asymmetrical
B. Find and create shapes through intersecting lines.
C. Incorporate line quality.
D. One using Hard and crisp Edges, the other using Soft Edges, Textured/Rough
Edges
Due: 9/15
Class Six – 9/15
Project 5: Combine curves, diagonals, and h & v into single design. Integrate found
shapes created by intersecting lines.
(2) 6 x 8 rectangles aligned on 1/2 sheet ( 18 x 12 ) with paper turned opposite way of
last project A. Geometric/ Clean B. Irregular/ Funky C. Decide on a focal point for each
one
Step 1. Begin a study in light pencil
Step 2 Refine to complete design concept
Step 3 Use black pen to finish
Due: 9/17
Shape The next classes will focus on shape, value and focal point in overall composition
Class Seven – 9/17
Critique Project 5
Project 6: Flat Shapes with Ink Washes
Demo: Ink washes, working with brushes
Design Principles: overlapping, abutting, interlocking, not touching
Materials: Ink, Brush, palette, rags, plastic container
4 rectangles inset- Ink- flat shapes in compositions
4 designs using flat silhouettes to create space and tension through scale relationship.
Interesting Shape Relationships create good compositions
1. Full value range : 4 or more shapes- each a different value
2. Full value range : 5 or more shapes-each a different value
3. Full value range : more than 5 shapes- wide range of values- some can repeat
4. Black background with range of value in shapes
Research: Using found images, appropriated and invented ones, create at least
30 silhouettes in your sketchbook- can be integrated into a narrative
Due 9/22
Class Eight – 9/22
Crit: Project 6
Project 7- Twins with different values, (2) 8 x 10 rectangles
Materials: Ink, Brush, palette, rags, plastic container
2 same images with opposite orientation from last project- trace to make exact
Due 9/24
Class Nine – 9/24
Project 8: same images (2) 8 x 10 rectangles
This time use texture to activating all areas of negative and positive space with a variety
of surface. Try again to make images look different
A) texture and value in one area
B) texture and value in different areas area
Due-- 9/29
The next projects will use Geometric, organic and irregular shapes, repetition, alignment,
focal point, tension through the medium of collage
Class Ten – 9/29
Project 9: Black Paper Collages: small compositional studies with color and black using
tilting and aligned rectangles and squares
Materials: Black Paper, Glue or Matte Medium, Rubber Cement and Rubber cement
eraser, brush, scissors
Due: 10/6
10/1 Faculty Professional Development Day-Make Color Wheel
Class Eleven- 10/6
Project 10: Collage on White paper – Geometric shapes
Materials: Colored Paper, Glue or Matte Medium, Rubber Cement and Rubber cement
eraser, brush, scissors
1/2 sheet 12 x 18- no border
Variety of Colors (use paint to make colors for shapes as well colored paper)
Project 11: Collage on colored ground (paper or paint)
irregular shapes, ripped edges and organic shapes
Due: 10/6
The next classes will focus on color
Class Twelve – 10/8
Project 12: Black and White studies with paint
Materials: Paint, brushes, rags, palette
1. paint gray scale at bottom , 1" x 1" squares total of 12
2. A. Light value B. Medium value C. Dark value D. Full Value
Due: 10/13
Bring in font samples for next class that you like
Class Thirteen– 10/13
Project 14: Text using complementary colors, Choose a font
Materials: Paint, brushes, rags
Text as shape, figure-ground reversal, negative/positive space
Using text as shape, manipulating shape from found fonts, figure ground reversal with
complementary colors.
A. composition using text-occupies less than ½ of the compositional space.
B. blow up text to expand into shapes so they occupy 50-60%
B. Blow up again to expand more than 70% of positive space. Go off the edges
occupying Negative space should be the smallest proportion of the
composition.
Due: 10/15
Class Fourteen – 10/15
Project 15: Monochromatic studies
Materials: Paint, brushes, rags
6 shapes that are borders for color studies ½ sheet-6 designsMonochromatic System
of Color- One Color + Black and White. Including tints, shades. Use each primary and
secondary for an individual shape Finish Due: 10/20
Class Fifteen – 10/20
Project 16: analogous colors 3 designs using lines to create shapes
Materials: Paint, brushes, rags, rulers, triangles
Due: 10/22
The next group of classes will focus on Pattern and repetition
Class Sixteen – 10/22
Project 17: Complement grids - using warms and cools
Divide paper into 6 equal shapes and use a different grid design for each
Due- 10/27
Class Seventeen – 10/27
Materials: Paint, brushes, rags, rulers, triangles
Project 18: Triadic Harmony red, yellow, blue Field Composition, All-over
1/2 Sheet- Traced images, No great scale shift, no intensity of focus, pattern-like, the
eye moving continuously over the compositional plane.
Due- 10/29
Class Eighteen – 10/29
Project 19: Triadic Harmony red, yellow, blue Field Composition, All-over
Materials: Paint, brushes, rags, tracing paper, graphite paper
Due: 11/3 Triadic Harmony O/P/G–one traced, one free-form
Prepare for Project 2 by collecting images
Class Nineteen – 11/3
Materials: Paint, brushes, rags, rulers, triangles
Exercise: Simultaneous Contrast
Project 22: Grids: rotational symmetry
Materials: Paint, brushes, rags, tracing paper, graphite paper
Home Assignment- finish part of Project 22
Prepare for Project 23 with design idea
Class Twenty – 11/5
Finish Project 22
Project 23: Reflective Symmetry
Materials: Paint, brushes, rags, tracing paper, graphite paper
Due: 11/10 Project 23
Class Twenty-one – 11/10
Project 24: Radial Symmetry
Combine found patterns, photocopy, using tracing paper + transfer paper and integrate
with design in radiating pattern
Class Twenty-two – 11/12
Continue Project 24
Due 11/17
Class Twenty-three -11/17
Project 25: Collage with found materials.
Materials: Collage materials, glue, matte medium, scissors etc…
Class Twenty-four – 11/19
Materials: Collage materials, glue, matte medium, scissors etc…
Project 26: Collage with found materials and painted shapes cut out
Class Twenty-five – 11/24
Materials: Collage materials, glue, matte medium, scissors etc…
Project 27: Collage with found materials and texture (including paint and 3-d elements)
Assignment of Final: Cosmology inner and outer Loose Radial Symmetry with
morphed shapes
Incorporate appropriated and invented sources, home assignment- begin work on finalbring notes and sketches of ideas for review 11/27
Class Twenty-six – 11/26
Continue Project 27
Class Twenty-seven -12/1
Work on Final project
Class Twenty-eight -12/3
Work on final project
Final: 12/10 Mandatory Attendance