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Course Syllabus

ART 1120 2D Surface

  • Division: Fine Arts, Comm, and New Media
  • Department: Visual Art
  • Credit/Time Requirement: Credit: 3; Lecture: 3; Lab: 3
  • Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring
  • Semester Approved: Fall 2026
  • Five-Year Review Semester: Summer 2031
  • End Semester: Summer 2032
  • Optimum Class Size: 12
  • Maximum Class Size: 15

Course Description

This visual arts foundation studio course introduces students to the dynamics of the visual language through the application of the elements and principles of design. Both analog and digital components will be utilized to develop compositional sensibility and skills in a variety of 2D mediums. Emphasis will be placed on the study of theory and application of two-dimensional structure through assignments designed to develop creative thinking, critical analysis, and visual problem-solving skills. A comprehensive portfolio will be required of each student. 2D Surface is one of a triad of design courses, including 3D Space and 4D Time, required in the curriculum for acceptance into the Snow College Visual Arts AFA degree program. A program fee is required.

Justification

This course provides theoretical study and application of the elements and principles of design as applied to two-dimensional media. The content of this course is an integral part of the core art curriculum for most visual arts programs in the country. Its primary goal is to provide a sound foundation in visual composition and foster the development of creative thinking and problem-solving skills. 2D Surface is one of a triad of design courses, including 3D Space and 4D Time, required in the curriculum for acceptance into the Snow College Visual Arts AFA degree program. Its outcomes are offered at every other higher education institution in the state as an art major requirement during the freshman year of study and it possesses a common course number in the USHE system.

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Material Proficiency: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to create thoughtfully designed and crafted projects in a variety of both analog and digital 2D mediums.
  2. Principles of Concept: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to develop, execute, and communicate concepts through idea generation, composition and production, craftsmanship, and presentation.
  3. Historical Context: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to identify the visual structure of artwork in relationship to the historical context of when it was created and in a variety of visual disciplines.
  4. Critical Theory: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to critically analyze the work of historically significant and contemporary artists, their own artwork, and those of their peers.
  5. Creative Process: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to use critical and creative thinking strategies to cultivate creative practice, express ideas, engage with challenging concepts, and creatively solve problems.

Course Content

Course topics and learning tasks include idea generation (as it applies to the creative process); formal application of the elements and principles of design; aesthetic theory; the study of representation (realism), abstraction, and non-representational art; materials, process, tools, and craftsmanship; and critique that promotes artistic growth and improvement.