Graphic Design/Web Design

GRDSN 200: Photoshop for Fine Artists
Course Syllabus

Instructor Info: 

Name:	Betsy Ward
E-mail:	betsyw@spokanefalls.edu
Phone:	509-533-3715
Office:	Bldg 19-227
Office Hours:	Click to view my schedule
Mailing Address:	MS 3190 3410 W Fort George Wright Dr Spokane, WA 99224-5288

Course Description:
This 2 credit course explores the application Photoshop using the tools that Fine Artists might employ to enhance their artwork. Through the use of digital imaging, filters, and image manipulation, students make prints using inkjet printers on a variety of papers. Photos will be taken for use in projects along with student artwork created in other disciplines.

Prerequisites:
none

Activities include but are not limited to:

• Working within a format
• Drawing thumbnail sketches
• Using the computer as a tool for fine art
• Using computer software for enhancement of artwork
• Using computer software for drawing and idea making
• Team work
• Learning about printers
• Paper selection for prints

This information is tentative and may change as the course proceeds.

At the completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Use various tools and filters in Photoshop.

2. Print with a variety of techniques and papers.

3. Enhance artwork with use of the computer software.

4. Work as a team member.

Grading

Grading is based on moving control of learning from the "instructor" to the "learner." This competency based educational approach considers "time" a variable and "mastery" a constant. On any given project the student will receive a "3.0" which indicates adequate completion of the criteria and competency list. If the student does not meet these standards he/she will receive an "I" for incomplete which means the student needs more time to achieve mastery. Students have one week after the deadline date to complete the assignment or will be given a 0.0 for the project. To obtain a "4.0" the student must exceed expectations in either work ethic, artistic ability, technical skills, problem solving skills, computer skills, people skills or idea development.

Grading will be an assessment of student's performance in three categories: motivation, process, and technical skills.

Motivation: This will include class attendance; bringing supplies to class, participation in exercises, discussions, and critiques; and timely completion of assigned out-of-class activities. Class absences, which are not made up, will lower your grade. If you miss more than 3 classes you will receive a 0.0 for your grade. Every two lates equals one absence. Absences must be made up by: a) collecting the class notes, b) coordinating with your instructor, and c) doing any missed work.

Process: There will be several processes studied: the identification of objectives for projects and problem solving to achieve those objectives, the use of the analytical and intuitive thought processes in the generation of concepts, and the production of assigned projects and exercises.

Technical skills: The use of tools and materials, measurement techniques, and an understanding of the processes involved.

Be prepared: Bring your supplies and computer backup storage to class. You need to create a binder that contains your class handouts and competency listings. This should be with you at all times. It is recommended that you get extra storage media to make multiple backups of your work. Cell phone use is not permitted in class. Please be sure to turn them off.

Communication: Email is required for this course. If you do not have an email account at home, you can sign up for free email using:

http://mail.yahoo.com
http://www.hotmail.com
or any other free email client

You may access your email using the lab, however please do not use the lab for "chat" or general web surfing. Email is checked by the faculty Monday thru Friday. Please allow 24 hours for your instructor to reply to your email.

Recommended References: 
Adobe Photoshop CS: Creative Studio, Luanne Cohen
Digital Art Studio: Techniques for Combining Inkjet Printing and Traditional Artist's Materials, Karin Schminke

Supplies:

• Printing papers include but not limited to Mulberry, Kitakata, Rives BFK, Stonehenge,
  Domestic Etch
• Letter-sized bond paper - we will try to recycle the paper left on the lab counter
• Assorted pencils 2B, 4B, 6
• Cover weight paper 8.5x11 inches, white or off-white
• Tracing paper 11x17"
• A folder or binder to store handouts
• A 24” ruler, cork-backed metal is preferred
• Scissors 
• A roll of .5” masking or drafting tape
• X-acto knife and blades
• Spray adhesive
• Scotch tape
• Black mat board, at least 2 pieces
• Thumb disk or CD to store computer files
• Print card
• It is a wise to acquire a protective container to carry large pads and prints. There are large canvas bags made for this; large shipping envelopes, used photo paper boxes or printers' plate boxes are also good solutions.

Note: This course syllabus is only for the quarter listed above and appropriate changes may be made by the faculty. Also, future syllabi for this course may be different.

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