This class will teach the fundamentals of observational drawing, beginning with the basic elements: line, shape, gesture, value and composition, and advancing to the use of non-traditional materials and the origination of creative ideas through class projects, journal-keeping, and looking at art. Field trips to local museums and galleries will enhance the students' ability to put their own studio work in the context of the greater art world. The role of visual art as a tool for communication and expression will be explored.

Prerequisite(s): none

Corequisite(s): none

This introduction to painting is designed for both beginners and more experienced painters. Using water-based oils and acrylic paints, the class will lead students through the basics of color theory, color mixing and paint application on a variety of surfaces. There will be a focus on creative approaches to observational work, using studio set-ups and the rich natural environment around SMCC. Class trips to Portland will introduce students to the resources of galleries and museums as well as the private studios of practicing artists.

Prerequisite(s): none

Corequisite(s): none

This course builds on the skills and techniques explored in Painting I, with a stronger focus on creative approaches to figurative painting and individual expression. Using water-based oils and acrylic paints, the class will lead students to explore advanced color theory, color mixing and paint application on a variety of surfaces. Class trips to Portland will introduce students to the resources of galleries and museums as well as the private studios of practicing artists. Out of class work will be expected.

Prerequisite(s): ARTS-180

Corequisite(s): none

The objective of this class is to examine two-dimensional design as a cornerstone for further studies in art. We live in an increasingly visual world and the elements of design can be found in organic and manufactured structures all around us. Through detailed study of design concepts, presentations, group critiques, field trips and the creation of compositions in cut paper, marker, acrylic paint, colored pencil, collage and ink, we will learn to create artwork that is unified and effective in concept, form and purpose and learn how design principles are practically applied every day, from websites to airplanes to handbags. Students will master the verbal and visual vocabulary essential for success in their chosen field of visual expression.

Prerequisite(s): none

Corequisite(s): none

This class explores in greater depth the concepts and techniques covered in introductory drawing courses. Students will further develop their observational

drawing skills and will work towards developing personal means of expression through expressionistic and conceptual drawing exercises. A significant amount of time is devoted to working from live models. A broad range of drawing materials including mixed-media will be utilized. Time will be spent preparing a well organized and presented portfolio.

Prerequisite(s): ARTS-110

Corequisite(s): none

Explore the oceanfront grounds of the SMCC campus during its most radiant time of year and take on the artistic challenges that working from nature presents: changing light, weather and tides, capturing movement and change, working quickly from life, completing outdoor works inside, etc. Students will be encouraged to develop a personal means of art-making, such as strict observational realism, expressionism, abstraction or conceptual. A variety of media and working methods will be explored including pencil, ink, watercolor, gouache, mixed media and more. Open to students with some drawing or painting background who are interested in building their confidence and abilities in working from nature.

Prerequisite(s): none

Corequisite(s): none

The objective of this class is to use watercolors to paint from nature, gaining mastery of the technique and exploring the environment. Costal Maine has been an influential landscape for artists throughout the past century: John Marin, Marsden Hartley, Rockwell Kent, Fairfield Porter, and many others found it an inspiring place to investigate modern painting, and watercolor was the medium that allowed them the freedom to explore. Southern Maine Community

College’s costal location will allow us to follow this tradition as we learn how to use watercolor outdoors to paint from observation. Students will learn skills needed to paint in watercolor, such as paper preparation, lifting color, and optical color mixing, and the emphasis will be on engagement with the surrounding environment and a willingness to experiment. Work will take place in the Art Studio and outdoors around the SMCC campus. A field trip to Peaks Island will allow for further exploration, and a second field trip to the Portland Museum of Art and local galleries will provide students with examples of other artists’ reactions to the Maine environment.

Prerequisite(s): none

Corequisite(s): none