Art Courses
Please note that the frequency of course offerings below is subject to change without notice, because of changes in faculty availability, sabbaticals and leaves, and other circumstances. Please consult the latest Schedule of Classes (and supplement), myBerea, revisions to online Catalog & Student Handbook, and/or the Program Coordinator to determine if a course will be offered during a certain term or year, especially if Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is a factor.
ART 110
Design
Two-dimensional and three-dimensional organizational problems involving the varied aspects of form and structure. Several different materials will be used to heighten awareness of process and imagination. Six studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 111
Printmaking I
This course is an introduction to techniques and problem solving. A study of printmaking through intaglio and relief techniques, including etching and linoleum cut. Six in-class studio hours each week. Arts Perspective. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 115
Drawing Fundamentals
This course is an introduction to drawing, stressing observation and recording. A broad range of techniques and materials are presented. Three two-hour studio periods each week. Arts Perspective. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 116
Painting I
2An introductory studio experience exploring techniques and problem solving through oil paint on paper and canvas, using color palettes ranging from the simple to the complex, and while working from direct observation. Emphasis is placed on technical understanding, accuracy in observation, and forming the illusion of light and space on a two-dimensional surface. Lectures, discussions of historical and contemporary work, and in-class group critiques are employed to guide students towards developing a sense of individual artistic direction, visual literacy, and personal critical judgment. ARTS PERSPECTIVE. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials.
1 Course Credit
ART 123
Ceramics I
An introductory studio experience in clay as a material for art making, including techniques of wheel forming and ceramic surfaces. Stoneware, slips, and glazes are the primary materials employed. Vessels and utilitarian pots are the primary formats. Critical observation of objects, critical discussion of art and design, and visual research in art are introduced. This course is a prerequisite for participation in the Ceramics Apprenticeship Program, which selects students based in part on performance in this course. Six in-class studio hours each week. Arts Perspective. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials.
1 Course Credit
ART 125
Fibers I
An introductory studio experience exploring the techniques and expressive possibilities of the fibers medium through four-harness loom weaving (loom controlled and tapestry), embroidery, 3-D forms created through coiling and twining, and direct application surface design and resists with dyes. Fiber art will be studied with consideration given to the history of textiles and current artists and theories. Six in-class studio hours each week. Arts Perspective. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials.
1 Course Credit
ART 130
Sculpture I
This course is an introduction to techniques and problem solving. A study of sculpture through direct and indirect techniques includ¬ing casting and carving. Six in-class studio hours each week. Arts Perspective. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 186
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
ART 206
Drawing II
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
This course approaches drawing as a medium for art making. Students will produce creative and original artwork relying on traditional and contemporary concepts, techniques, and materials. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 211
Printmaking II
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
In this course students will continue to develop competence in the areas of tools, materials, techniques, and design as applied to advanced relief printmaking. The following relief printmaking techniques will be covered in the course: woodcut, multi-block color, reduction relief, collagraph and viscosity. This course will employ problem-solving assignments that have a conceptual dimension. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 216
Painting II
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
Expanding on the technical and observation-based skills developed in Painting I, this course will require the student to solve both conceptual and formal problems in oil paint. Techniques in new painting mediums are introduced. Class time focuses on observation based work, visual problem solving, critiques, and group discussions of painting as a historical and contemporary medium. To facilitate individual progress, actively working advanced level students are provided, when possible, with semi-private studio space outside of the group studio. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 223
Ceramics II
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
Study of ceramic art making, including techniques of hand-building and expanded ceramic surface possibilities. Critical observation of objects, critical discussion of art and design, and visual research in art are expanded. Terracotta and low temperature glazes are the primary materials employed. Sculpture and vessel are the primary formats. Conceptual techniques, art sourcing, and developing personal voice are introduced. Student responsibility for personal studio logistics increases at this level. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 225
Fibers II
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
This course will expand on the fibers processes and materials used in ART 125 and introduce the student to conceptual problem solving using the Fibers medium. The first part of the class will be learning construction and surface techniques. The second part of the class will focus on using multiple fiber techniques as a means of personal expression, emphasizing the idea and its expression. Readings, textiles from the collection, and slide presentations will give the student a basic exposure to the history of textiles and current events and thoughts in Fiber Arts. Six in-class studio hours per week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 230
Sculpture II
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
This course will present additional techniques and materials not offered in ART 130 and introduces conceptually based problem solving. Students will employ direct and indirect techniques, including welding and foundry casting. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 234
The Art of Observation
Drawing and writing from direct experience offers a connection between an observer and an event; both experiences alter the perception and awareness of a traveler. This course will engage students in a multi-disciplinary experience that will challenge their thoughts on the value of travel and their own artistic interests. We will incorporate and play with the concept of ekphrasis in looking at how different art forms feed one another. What can the painter learn from writing? What can the writer learn from a drawing? What can any artist learn from traveling to an unfamiliar place? How do different forms of recording travel influence the awareness of that experience?
In this class we will explore these complex issues while immersing ourselves in travel writing, observational sketching, and writing about and visually recording the regions (both urban and rural) and places (art museums and writers' homes) we will visit. This course will employ both group and individual work with daily seminar-style discussions. Texts will include DEATH IN VENICE by Thomas Mann, DUBLINERS by James Joyce, LET THE GREAT WORLD SPIN by Colum McCann, poetry by Keats, Lawrence, various short works as well as place specific examples of visual art.
Though not a prerequisite, Art 115 Drawing Fundamentals and ENG 124 Introduction to Creative Writing are recommended prior to taking this course.
ART 286
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
ART 311
Printmaking III
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
This course will present advanced techniques and require students to concentrate on a single media area. In consultation with the instructor, students will work using personally derived concepts and objectives. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 316
Painting III
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
Though similar to Painting II in format and structure, the advancing painting student solves conceptual and formal problems, both course-directed and self-directed, in a chosen painting or drawing medium. Personal goals are developed and directed with instructor guidance as the student further explores personal direction and individual expression. To facilitate individual progress, actively working advanced level students are provided, when possible, with semi-private studio space outside of the group studio. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 323
Ceramics III
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
Ceramics III is a study that requires concentration in a specific subset of the ceramics continuum in medium, format, and firing temperatures. Course format includes both self-derived and instructor constructed assignments. Critical seeing, critical discussion, conceptual approaches, art sourcing, and personal voice are expanded. Each student develops personal artistic goals and objectives, builds content, and pursues expression in their work, with instructor guidance. To facilitate individual progress, actively working advanced level students are provided with semi-private studio space, when possible, within the group studio. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 325
Fibers III
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
The primary purpose of this course is to provide structured time, guidance, and feedback to students who have chosen to focus in fibers. Over the course of the term, students are expected to expand their visual vocabulary with advanced techniques that focus in a specific area within the fibers medium, to explore the history of fibers, and to produce personally derived conceptual work. Projects will be student directed with instructor guidance and should be designed to encourage growth, individual expression, and independent learning. Students also are expected to continue experimenting by continuing to build a vocabulary of materials and processes. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 330
Sculpture III
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
This course will present advanced techniques and require students to concentrate on a single media area. In consultation with the instructor, students will work using personally derived concepts and objectives. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 386
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
ART 390A
Independent Study
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
ART 390B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
ART 395
Internship
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
ART 397A
Team Initiated Study w/ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
ART 397B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
ART 398
Directed Study
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
ART 411
Printmaking IV
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
This course requires students to concentrate on producing a conceptually directed independent body of work aimed at the senior exhibition. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 416
Painting IV
Offered: Typically every Fall and Spring Term
Students will focus on producing a conceptually directed independent body of work aimed at the senior exhibition. Students are expected to articulate in precise visual language the goals and outcomes of their work, to show mastery of their chosen medium, and to produce a cohesive body of new work containing at least five significantly developed, finished pieces that are connected both visually and conceptually. Work will be student-directed with instructor guidance and criticism and should be designed to encourage growth, controlled individual expression, and independent learning. To facilitate individual progress, actively working advanced level students are provided, when possible, with semi-private studio space outside of the group studio. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 423
Ceramics IV
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
Students will develop a conceptually directed independent body of work aimed at the senior exhibition. This body of work will be cohesive, consisting of finished pieces that are connected both visually and conceptually. Students are expected to show command of their medium in order to convey content and to articulate that content in words as well as in the object-visual. Students are expected to demonstrate visual and conceptual development throughout the course, and to pursue self-derived assignments with the assistance of critiques and discussions with the class and the instructor. To facilitate individual progress, actively working advanced level students are provided, when possible, with semi-private studio space within the group studio. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 425
Fibers IV
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
In this course, students will focus on producing a conceptually directed independent body of work aimed at the senior exhibition. Students are expected to expand their visual vocabulary within the fibers medium and to produce a cohesive body of work containing at least five pieces that are connected both visually and conceptually. Projects will be student directed with instructor guidance and should be designed to encourage growth, controlled individual expression, and independent learning. The student also is expected to continue experimenting by continuing to build a vocabulary of materials and methods. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 430
Sculpture IV
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
This course requires students to concentrate on producing a conceptually directed independent body of work aimed at the senior exhibition. Six in-class studio hours each week. Course Fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. 1 Course Credit
ART 486
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
ART 490A
Independent Study
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
ART 490B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
ART 491
Independent Studio
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty/staff availability allow
Intensive work in an area not currently in the curriculum. A proposal for Independent Studio must be approved by the Department during the term prior to when the course is to be taken.
ART 493
Senior Seminar
Offered: Typically Fall and Spring terms
A series of lectures, films, discussions, visiting artist programs, review, and other designated meetings. An exhibition of work or an oral presentation of a selected research topic during the senior year (ART 493) is required. NOTE: Required for majors concentrating in Art: Studio and Art: General; taken in the last regular term of residence.
ART 495
Internship
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
ART 497A
Team Initiated Study w/ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
ART 497B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
ART 498
Directed Study
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
Notice and Disclaimer
This online publication is the official text of the Berea College Catalog & Student Handbook. Berea College reserves the right to amend, revise, or modify content within this publication at any time.


