Art Practices I - ARTS 1220
w/ Sarah Stolar
Face-to-Face - Mondays and Wednesdays, 9-11:30am

This course introduces the exploration of processes, ideas, and diverse media of visual arts. It addresses the thematic concepts that are central to the nature of art making today, with emphasis given to issues of LIGHT, FRAME, and MARK while developing an understanding of the elements and principles of design.

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Art Practices I is an interdisciplinary foundations course exploring the diverse processes, ideas, and materials of visual art. Students will work from a variety of approaches including (but not limited to) drawing, painting, sculpture, 2-D design, digital, and time-based media. They will address thematic concepts that are central to the nature of art today while also learning hands-on technical skills, craft, and presentation of finished artworks. Focusing on three distinct topics – Light, Frame, and Mark – students will engage in visual and conceptual problem solving, collaboration, and personal exploration of individual practice. Readings, writings, slide lectures, and videos on relevant artists and periods in art history will be assigned and presented throughout the semester in conjunction with each project.

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Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design (Core)

Drawing I - ARTS 1610-800
w/ Gary Cook
Face-to-Face - Thursdays, 9-2:30pm

Drawing I introduces the basic principles, materials, and skills of observational drawing. Emphasis is placed on rendering a 3-D subject on a 2-D surface with visual accuracy. Other topics include historical and contemporary references as well as an investigation of linear perspective, line, value, shape, space & composition. 

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This course is a survey of the basic techniques, materials, theory, vocabulary, and overall practice of observational drawing. Because abstraction is an exaggeration or alteration of reality, it is important to first learn to draw from life; therefore, the projects will be interpreted from a variety of natural forms including interior/exterior space, still-life, self-portrait, the skeleton, and an artist copy. These drawings will be executed using a variety of traditional drawing materials such as charcoal, pastel, Conté, pencil, and ink. With these materials, students will develop an understanding of technical variety in mark-making using perspective, proportion, scale, volume, texture, contrast, value, line and shade. Toward the end of the semester, students will be introduced to color and collage and create more experimental works on paper. Each session will be devoted to studio work with some art historical discussion and/or critique. 

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Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design (Core)

Painting I - ARTS 1630
w/ Sarah Stolar
Face-to-Face - Fridays, 12-5:30pm

Painting I introduces the tradition of painting as a medium for artistic expression. Students will investigate materials, tools, techniques, history and concepts of painting. Emphasis is placed on developing descriptive and perceptual skills, color theory, and composition.  

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This course introduces basic concepts and develops technical and perceptual skills using acrylic or oil (preferred). Students will learn the fundamentals of observational oil painting, focusing on representational paintings of a variety of subjects including still-life, landscape, and self-portrait. We will discuss the visual information in painting, the dialogue surrounding painting and its formulas, and when it is appropriate to abandon those formulas. Students will make several short-session paintings throughout the semester, rather than focusing on one or two highly polished works, and learn of a variety of techniques accumulating in a confident, contemporary painting style.​

Painting II - ARTS 2630
w/ Gary Cook
Face-to-Face - Tuesdays, 9am-2:30pm
Prerequisite: ARTS 1630

This course focuses on the expressive and conceptual aspects of painting, building on the observational, compositional, technical, and critical skills gained previously. Students will investigate a variety of approaches to subject matter, materials, and creative processes through in-class projects, related out-of-class assignments, library research or museum/gallery attendance, written responses, and critiques. 

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Painting II continues exploration of the painting concepts and techniques presented in Painting I. Working from imagination as well as observation, emphasizing the expressive potential of the medium. Course objectives include increasing ones visual vocabulary, seeing skills, and resolving visual images in the form of paintings. Noting that this is not an introduction class, the primary goal of the class is to further develop ones understanding of visual phenomena, surface development and composition as expressive tools. Assignments will be executed in medium to large scale painting formats. This course explores ideas on creativity and consciousness as they relates to knowing and conceptualizing ideas.

Introduction to Ceramics - ARTS 1310
w/ Lee Akins
Face-to-Face - Tuesdays, 9-2:30pm

This course introduces the technical processes and conceptual concerns of working with ceramic material. Various methods of forming functional and expressive works out of clay are explored. Methods used include hand building and throwing, basic clay bodies, slip and glaze, and atmospheric firing.

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Terminology, concepts, historical and technical information will be presented. Techniques will include the hand building techniques of pinch, coil, slab and molding. Wheel projects will include cylinders, bowls and mugs. Individual creative development is encouraged. There will be both self-selected and assigned projects.

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Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design (Core)

Ceramics I - ARTS 1320
w/ Lee Akins
Face-to-Face - Thursdays, 9-2:30pm
Prerequisite: ARTS 1310

An introduction to the medium of clay incorporating hand building and wheel throwing to introduce the student to both the sculptural and utilitarian uses of clay. The student will also be introduced to a variety of glazing and firing techniques. 

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Continuation of Arts 1310 with an emphasis placed on the mastery of forming, surfacing, and firing processes. Intermediate hand building and wheel throwing techniques will include projects with lids, spouts and decorating. Making and formulating glazes, as well as variety of firing techniques will also be presented. Expanded critical awareness and the development of a personal aesthetic will be encouraged. There will be both self-selected and assigned projects. 

Intro to Printmaking - ARTS 1710
w/ Gary Cook
Face-to-Face - Wednesdays, 9-2:30pm
Prerequisite: ARTS 1610

This course provides direct experience of exploring basic printmaking processes, including relief, intaglio, and monoprint processes, as well as the investigation of materials/media, tools, techniques, history, and concepts of printmaking. Emphasis is given to solving problems through thematic development while producing a portfolio of prints. 

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Fundamental techniques in Introduction to Printmaking are presented and practiced in a survey format. Methods and expressive potentials of the major printmaking processes are taught. Instruction includes lecture, demonstrations, practice, and critique. At the conclusion of this course, the student will develop awareness of the unique properties of a wide variety of print processes and the historical development of printmaking and it’s influences on contemporary works; develop technique and the proper use of tools and materials within the print shop as a collaborative working space; Utilize a journal/sketchbook as a documentation process, to develop concepts, generate source material and aid in self-criticism and exploration; increase understanding of his/her own aesthetic aspirations and how these objectives can be expressed using the print media; and create a foundation for more advanced study of print media. 

Sculpture I - ARTS 1840
w/ Lee Akins
Face-to-Face - Wednesdays, 9-2:30pm

Sculpture I introduces the student to a working knowledge of the medium and techniques used in the creation of ceramic sculpture; along with the historic, conceptual, and aesthetic foundations of the sculptural process. Projects will include bas-relief, plaster molds, organic, geometric, bust, figure and mixed media. Each session will include a presentation/ demonstration with both historical and contemporary examples. Students will demonstrate the ability to experience and analyze a sculpture, and how to communicate those analyses in a comprehensible manner. They will produce objects and analyses that demonstrate a cursory knowledge of historic, and contemporary art practices. Students will begin to define their own personal vocabulary in the visual language through the creation of a body of work. A minimum of 7 finished sculptures will be required. 

Jewelry & Small Metal Construction - ARTS 1810
w/ Kimberly Thompson
Face-to-Face - Wednesdays, 9-2:30pm

This course introduces the basic techniques, materials, and tools traditionally used in the creation of jewelry and/or small-scale sculptural objects.  Students will explore fundamental fabrication practices and demonstrate proficiency in skills and a comprehension of visual vocabulary. Coursework will include examination of the history and practices of jewelry-making and metal casting within a global perspective.  Techniques covered may include soldering, stone setting, lapidary, and casting. 

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Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design.

Jewelry & Small Metal Construction II - ARTS 2810
w/ Kimberly Thompson
Face-to-Face - Tuesdays, 12-5:30pm
Prerequisite: ARTS 1810

Fabrication skills are further developed and refined while additional advanced fabrication methods are introduced. Emphasis is placed on developing a deeper understanding of form and content as it relates to creating on an intimate scale. This course builds on concepts learned in Jewelry and Small Metal Construction I and allows the student an opportunity to expand upon basic concepts, techniques, and processes of jewelry making, and miniature sculpture.  Students will explore alternative casting methods, advanced soldering applications, and intermediate level stone setting techniques.

Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design.

Intro to Photography - ARTS 1410
w/ Adrian Pijoan
Online, asynchronous 

This course introduces the making of photographic images from a broad viewpoint to consider both as an art practice and as a cultural practice. The course covers basic technical information in camera use and functionality, composition, and visual design, digital workflow, editing, manipulating, and enhancing images correctly and effectively. 

Demonstrations, artist talks, assignments, and critiques will give students the beginning tools for creative exploration and expression in the medium of photography. Course content is created to get students thinking about the meaning of photographic images in history, culture, and in their own experiences. Students will gain the skills and knowledge to demonstrate visual voice through photography and competency in basic camera functions and composition.

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Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design (Core)

Intro to Art & Ecology - ARTS 1143
w/ Adrian Pijoan
Online, asynchronous 

This course is an introduction to the history and practice of the interdisciplinary field of art and ecology. Students will investigate artistic practice, political ecology, environmental justice, and the interrelationships between cultural and ecological systems. 

Through readings, discussion, lectures, and projects, we will explore how art can respond to–and make meaning within–the context of climate crises, mass extinction, colonialism, extractivism, and beyond. In order to expand the space of possibilities for thinking/feeling/making, this course aims to identify and to challenge distinctions between art and science, theory and practice, knowledge and affect. 

Introduction to Digital Media - FDMA 1520
w/ Peter Walker
Face-to-Face Plus - Thursdays, 9-11:30am

This course is designed to provide students with a survey of the histories, innovative concepts, and creative possibilities of digital media. Additionally, students will learn fundamental skills in teamwork, storytelling, and design.

Students will be immersed in the development of the visual story through the study of The Cast of Visual Characters; Seven Basic Components; Space, Line, Shape, Tone, Color, Movement, and Rhythm; The Real World & the Screen World. This course dives into film history starting with the concept of movie magic and the first inventors of cinema to contemporary filmmaking. This course also focuses on diversity in storytelling introducing new perspectives and representation in filmmaking. Students will create original image sequences based on topics and themes each week.  Students will learn how to give their peers feedback to create a fun and dynamic learning environment.

Digital Video Production I - FDMA 1220
w/ Peter Walker
Face-to-Face Plus - Wednesdays, 9-11:30am

An introduction to digital video production. Students learn skills for improving their camera techniques, as well as lighting, sound, storytelling, post-production and distribution. 

In this fast-moving course, we will be studying videos, television shows, and films, particularly those covering the topics that are hot topics of the day. By studying these examples, you will learn to adjust your own approach to fit the situation rather than imitating the way things have always been done. On the technical end, we will cover the seven stages of production and make original productions each week. This is a course for students who love making things and have plenty of stories to tell. 

Introduction to Cinematography - FDMA 2520
w/ Peter Walker
Face-to-Face Plus - Wednesdays, 3-5:30pm 

The Director of Photography (or Cinematographer), in close collaboration with the Director and Production Designer, helps determine the look of a film. This course is designed to introduce students to the technical and aesthetic fundamentals of creating, developing, and collaborating on the visual elements of storytelling, using camera framing, lensing, and lighting fundamentals such as shadows, light and color.

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Students will have the opportunity to practice their filmmaking skills using professional cameras, lenses and sliders. This course is part of the Film Technician Certificate and FDMA Associates Program. 

Directing I - FDMA 2610
w/ Peter Walker
Face-to-Face Plus - Fridays, 9-11:30pm 
Prerequisite: FDMA 1210 and (310 or 324)

The language of the screen is the great art form of our time because it offers compelling entertainment and outstanding forum for the marriage of ideas and feelings. It leaps cultural barriers and changes hearts and minds as only good art can. The is no limit to the number of meaningful films the world can consume. So, if you can create outstanding work, there will be a place for you. Proving yourself won’t be simple or easy, for the competition is stiff. 

With the skills taught in this course you will hone your storytelling skills and learn the art of directing! We will cover highly prized skills such as; the essential elements of drama, duality and conflict, action and character development, leadership and collaborating with a team plus the seven stages of production. This course is demanding and will require multiple media assignments submitted each week. Excellent course for students wanting to go pro.  

Introduction to Film Studies - FDMA 2210
w/ Kelly Clement
Online, asynchronous 

Analysis of film as a unique art, and a survey of main trends in film history. Screenings and critical study of major films.

This course is designed to provide you with a foundation for future film study; to expose you to a wide range of cinematic styles and approaches; and to move you from a passive viewer to an active “reader” of film. You will learn the basic elements of cinematic language (including narrative, mise-en-scene, cinematography, acting, editing, and sound) and will use that knowledge to analyze the way filmmakers convey information, story, and meaning, develop style, and elicit audience response within a single scene and over the course of an entire feature film. We’ll explore the central critical approaches to the study of cinema, and examine a wide range of film styles and movements. There are no prerequisites for taking this class. 

Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design.

Beyond Hollywood - FDMA 2195
w/ Kelly Clement
Online, asynchronous 

An introduction to cinemas outside of the Hollywood studio system with screenings of major works.

The goal of this class is to familiarize students with documentary history, theory, criticism, and practice. The course is designed to challenge you to develop a critical eye, and to deepen your appreciation of the many different modes of documentary film and video. We will consider the documentary as an art form, a cultural artifact, a vehicle for political expression and social change, and as a means for representing cultures. Through weekly screenings we will explore a wide variety of films that will survey the range of documentary expression, from the classics, to the new independent and experimental forms, and everything in-between. There are no prerequisites for taking this class.

Introduction to Art - ARTH 1120
w/ Paula King
Online, asynchronous 

This foundation course introduces and explores the visual arts on a personal, societal, cultural, and historical level. An excellent course for someone new to the study of art or the experienced artist, students learn about all art-making processes, art materials, and techniques used by artists, designers, and architects. Studies feature iconic artists throughout history and major art movements. Students will build on a broad knowledge base to practice the skill of formal analysis, in order to expand an art appreciation and grow a personal aesthetic. The course offers a creative project using basic photography.

Canvas Online Course. This course is completed 100% online, therefore access to a computer and the internet are required. Designed with Quality Matters Standards, ARTH 1120 provides an excellent learning experience and offers flexibility for busy students. Support with the technology of the course is provided on campus, by email, and by phone by the HELP support staff of UNM. Pacing may be accelerated for early completion.

Inclusive Access for this course: This course has been set up for inclusive access delivery, this means your materials will be accessible through UNM Learn when classes begin. You do not need to shop for the ‘title of the book’ ahead of time. You do not need to pay by credit card or any other method, you should not see a prompt for payment at all when using the inclusive access materials. Your specially discounted price will be billed to your UNM Bursar Account AFTER the add/drop deadline. Additionally, McGraw-Hill Connect Access will be required (includes ebook, Smartbook, course learning activities, and exams).

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Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design

Art History I - ARTH 2110
w/ Paula King
Online, asynchronous 

This survey course explores the art and architecture of ancient pre-historic cultures through the end of the fourteenth century. While focused primarily on the art of the Western civilizations, this course will also provide insights into the works of other major cultures in order to provide alternate views of art and history. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship of artworks to political, social, spiritual, intellectual, and cultural movements that affect and are affected by their creation and development. The course offers a creative project using basic photography.

Canvas Online Course. This course is completed 100% online, therefore access to a computer and the internet are required. Designed with Quality Matters Standards, ARTH 2110 provides an excellent learning experience and offers flexibility to Learners. Support with the technology of the course is provided on campus, by email, and by phone by the HELP support staff of UNM. Pacing may be accelerated for early completion.

Inclusive Access for this course: This course has been set up for inclusive access delivery, this means your materials will be accessible through UNM Learn when classes begin. You do not need to shop for the ‘title of the book’ ahead of time. You do not need to pay by credit card or any other method, you should not see a prompt for payment at all when using the inclusive access materials. Your specially discounted price will be billed to your UNM Bursar Account AFTER the add/drop deadline.

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​Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design