This course is an exploration of the principles of interaction design as they relate to physical and digital space, with a focus on designing user-centered artifacts, games, and experiences. Theoretical concepts like ethnography, user-testing, and the use of mapping in design will be explored. We will also examine the landscape of technology as it relates to interaction, and the use of appropriate tools and software to create prototypes and functioning digital designs.

Intermediate Drawing reinforces and builds upon skills developed in Introductory Drawing. Strong emphasis is given to resolving spatial relationships and composition (examination of 2D and 3D space). Line as abstraction, gesture, tonal development, perspective, and drawing from the human figure are important topics of this course. Materials such as graphite, charcoal, ink, and mixed media are covered, as well as the use of different papers. Outside assignments and class critques play an expanded role. Prereq: ARTS 532 Introductory Drawing. Special fee.

Students paint in class and begin to consider the character of their own work as artists. Themes related to color development are explored further. Teachers of this course help students understand the stylistic attributes of great artists/mentors. Lectures, demonstrations, outside assignments, and class critiques continue to augment the daily regime of class painting. Other painting media besides oil paint (acrylic, water media) may be featured in the class. Prereq: ARTS 546 Painting and Color Theory. Special fee.

The studio art honors thesis course involves a significant independent body of work. A 1-2 page written proposal that identifies the specific goals, methodology, anticipated outcome, and general timeline needs to be endorsed by a faculty member and the Department Honors Committee and must be submitted the semester prior to the start of the project. Upon completion, the thesis project and a written artist statement will be presented to the Honors-in-Major Committee. Senior BFA majors can designate ARTS 798 Thesis Seminar as honors in place for ARTS 700H.