VAFA141 Introduction to Sculpture
Department of Arts and Communication: Sculpture
- I. Course Number and Title
- VAFA141 Introduction to Sculpture
- II. Number of Credits
- 3 credits
- III. Number of Instructional Minutes
- 4050
- IV. Prerequisites
- None
- Corequisites
- None
- V. Other Pertinent Information
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Safe shop practices are emphasized. In addition to class studio time, the student will work 5 hours outside of class each week in the studio area under the supervision of a Lab Assistant or at home. There is a studio supply cost listed for this course.
This course meets the General Education requirement for Arts/Humanities.
- VI. Catalog Course Description
- This course introduces basic sculpture techniques, such as carving, casting, modeling, and welding, with emphasis on understanding issues of line, plane, shape, and volume. Plaster, metal, clay, and wood are utilized to help the student understand the form and content of sculpture. Historical sculpture topics supplement this course.
- VII. Required Course Content and Direction
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Course Learning Goals
Students will:
- apply line, plane, shape, mass, volume, texture, and space in the creation of sculptural form;
- demonstrate an understanding of the technical skills and knowledge necessary to be able to translate a concept into a three-dimensional form [Arts/Humanities];
- communicate ideas effectively using the vocabulary of sculpture;
- recognize the rich historical accomplishments in sculpture; and
- demonstrate an understanding of the skills needed to attain a quality finish.
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Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities
- emphasis on model making to reveal concepts
- work in traditional sculptural media and potential media are
- clay
- metal
- wood
- plaster
- plexiglass
- stone
- Introduction to technical processes in these media
- modeling
- mold making
- fabricating and welding or carving
- the basics of three-dimensional form in space are studied through both additive and reductive processes
- the knowledge and techniques are introduced to finish and present sculpture
- properties of materials
- use of manual and power tools
- finishing techniques
- students will demonstrate safe shop practices
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Assessment Methods for Course Learning Goals
- Course learning goals are assessed with group critiques of all projects, based on the successful design, execution, and completion of assigned projects.
- At least two individual critiques with instructor are held each semester, to assess projects using the above criteria and to review students' overall progress.
- Instructor evaluation of tool and shop safety practices through observation and quizzes.
- Projects are assessed through critiques, oral presentations, and discussions.
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Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Student:
See course syllabus. Sculpture magazine, slides, video, and digital technology are incorporated by the instructor.
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Review/Approval Date - 12/04; Revised 6/09; Revised 4/2012; New Core 8/2015;Revised 5/20