Introduction to 2D - 1st year


Introduction to 2D is a basic design studio course for the student with little or no previous art background as well as for art majors. It is intended to give students a practical introduction to the nature and application of 2 dimensional designs. Students will explore ideas through art exercises and projects that will investigate how design transforms the ordinary in our every day world.



Objectives:

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

1. Analyze the communicative, aesthetic and expressive functions of design;

2. Identify the role and practical application of design in the natural and man-made world;

3. Experiment with a range of media, art-making practices, aesthetic and cultural styles;

4. Develop and demonstrate creative and critical problem-solving skills by observing, conceptualizing and organizing information through design resolution;

5. Investigate non-linear thinking and intuitive artistic processes common to the visual arts;

6. Stimulate personal creativity and be inspired by the aesthetic.

Topics:

Course topics will include the following:

1. What is design and what is its function?

2. Design as Communication: Creativity, symbolism, form and content, interpretation;

3. The Artist’s Eye: Examining and applying the visual elements and principles of design;

4. Visual Thinking: Moving through process to product;

5. Elegant solutions: Design resolution and practical applications.


Method of Instruction:

1. Lecture/demonstration;

2. Audio-visual, slide presentation.


Types of Assignments:

1. In-class art exercises and projects

Sample Text:

1. Design Basics by David A. Lauer & Stephen Pentak. (Wadsworth Publishing, 1994.)